Actuator assembly with electric motor for extending and retracting a pusher

An apparatus for applying a force or action directed at interacting with or stopping a mechanism, or diverting an object. The apparatus includes a motor, a pusher, a drive shaft, and a retainer. The motor provides the force or action. The drive shaft is coupled to the motor and fitted within the pusher, and the pusher plate is coupled to the motor, with the pusher being fitted within the retainer. The pusher plate comprises an anti-rotation feature that prevents the pusher from rotating and converts the rotation motion of the drive shaft into a linear motion whereby the pusher is pushed out of the retainer, such as to engage, interact with or stop the mechanism. The pusher may be variously configured, such as in the form of a drive nut, ball assembly or roller assembly.