In servo-driven systems, feedback for position, velocity, and/or torque control is typically provided by a rotary encoder or resolver mounted to the motor. But mechanical components and connections in the drivetrain — such as gearboxes, ball screws, and couplings — are not perfectly rigid and introduce backlash, compliance, and windup into the system. This lack […]
Encoders
Feedback on stepper motors for better positioning and holding (and less ringing)
Feedback-equipped stepper motors are not a complete substitute for servomotors, but they can provide a reliable alternative for many real-world applications. These motion-design solutions improve machine performance without breaking the bank. By Jim Stevens • Product Specialist | POSITAL Inc. Stepper motors are a top choice for many motion and position control applications. They’re available […]
Panel-mount encoder series now with plastic shaft options
CUI Devices’ Motion Group has added plastic shaft actuator options to its C14 family of optical panel mount encoders. Ideal for a range of ventilator and associated medical applications, these 2-bit, quadrature output encoders feature incremental resolutions of 16 or 32 PPR and multiple termination types including cable, header, PCB pins, and solder holes. All […]
New absolute encoder for harsh environments from Netzer Precision
The VLX-60 is a new member of the VLX series of Electric Encoders, a product line based on Netzer Precision Motion Sensor proprietary technology. Products in this series are characterized by a number of features including: Low profile (<10 mm) Hollow shaft (stator/rotor) No bearings or other contact elements High resolution and unparalleled precision Low […]
Encoder Products Company offers draw wire motion feedback solution
Encoder Products Company’s (EPC) new LCX Series draw wire units work with EPC encoders to accurately measure position and provide motion feedback in motion control applications. The LCX Series of Draw Wire solutions is manufactured for EPC by our German technology partner and offers wire lengths from one to 42.5 meters in length. “The maintenance-free […]
What are geared cam limit switches?
Electromechanical switches are often placed at the ends of linear axes to indicate the limits of travel. But for applications with rotary — rather than linear — motion, geared cam limit switches can perform a similar function by tracking rotations of the motor shaft and triggering switches to stop movement when the specified number of […]
New online encoder selection tool targets MRO needs
Sensor manufacturer POSITAL has released its intuitive online tool EncoderMatch.com. This new web platform, which combines a search engine, product configurator and ordering tool, is aimed at the MRO/spare parts business. With a few mouse clicks, maintenance staff and technical buyers can quickly find cost-effective replacements for encoders in existing machines or systems – regardless […]
ACS introduces new SinCos Encoder Multiplier and Splitter for OEM machine designers
ACS Motion Control launches a new High Precision SinCos Encoder Multiplier and Splitter for OEM machine designers. The EM1024 is a single-channel analog SinCos encoder multiplier and splitter designed for high precision motion control applications such as inspection and metrology systems. From the original incoming SinCos encoder signal, two pairs of output encoder signals (four […]
Rotary encoders, inclinometers now with Modbus RTU interface
POSITAL has expanded its range of absolute rotary encoders and inclinometers to include support for the common Modbus RTU communications interface. Modbus RTU is a low-cost, easy-to-implement communications protocol that’s commonly used in small to mid-sized control systems (up to 32 nodes). Available for almost four decades, it’s supported by many PLC manufacturers and has […]
What is a gated index pulse for incremental encoders?
Incremental encoders typically use two square-wave signals in quadrature (out of phase by 90 degrees) to track position and direction of motion. But because they only track incremental position (not absolute position) they’re not able to determine the true position of the motor and connected equipment after a shut-down or power loss. So most incremental […]