MTS Systems Corp. (www.mts.com), Sensors Division has introduced a new technology for their Temposonics sensors that integrates both an incremental interface as well as absolute output, such as Synchronous Serial Interface (SSI), in one sensor housing. This allows the sensor to deliver more speed control and precise position by providing feedback to both motion controller and the drive.

This new technology is set to be launched with a new product early next year.

“A dual-function sensor is something our customers have been asking for in a magnetostrictive linear positioning product for some time,” explained Matt Hankinson, Technical Marketing Manager at MTS Sensors.

“Currently, designers using an incremental encoder who want to add absolute position feedback must add an additional linear encoder or use a proprietary interface. The new dual sensor will provide both an incremental quadrature signal to the drive and an absolute linear position feedback for motion control with a single sensor.”

A linear motor, for instance, commonly utilize an incremental linear encoder to switch current in phases and drive the motor speed and position (drive commutation). The new solution provides a single sensor with dual channels an incremental signal for motor positioning, while the motion controller is provided with an absolute linear position feedback channel.

The new products operate at two levels. The changes in position are measured by the incremental interface while the sensor’s absolute position is communicated by the SSI output. Absolute positioning simply means that a need for calibration ever occurred. When combined with the non-contact sensor technology employed in all MTS Sensor products, this can significantly reduce maintenance and installation costs in these applications while optimizing productivity. Regardless of traverse speed, this inherently absolute position technology never lose track of its position.