Learn in the textbookActuators and Device Control
DefinitionA pneumatic cylinder (空気圧シリンダ) is an actuator that pushes a piston with the force of compressed air, producing linear motion.
ExplanationAir is light and flows easily, so it suits quick back-and-forth motion, and a leak hardly dirties the surroundings. On the other hand, air compresses, so the force and positioning accuracy fall short of the oil-based type.
AnalogyLike blowing into a straw so the paper wad inside shoots out, it uses air pressure to push something out quickly.