Rotalink (www.rotalink.com) has unveiled an innovative low-priced absolute encoder with ovoid style gearboxes. This compact encoder is directly fitted to the output shaft’s rear side to measure the load position and it is available for single-turn 360° rotation or multi-turn versions of up to 32,000 revolutions. The absolute encoder uses highly reliable and long-life non-contacting magnetic technology and provides a choice of a 10-bit per turn positional data or 0V-5V linear analogue output through a synchronous serial interface (SSI).

The device can be used to replace potentiometer-based angle encoders by combining position and motor feedback in one component or for low-cost servo feedback in rotary and linear actuators. Absolute position feedback is also very useful for machine homing. The device’s multi-turn option consists of an integral rechargeable battery, which maintains full position information for 20 hours if machine power is removed,

Rotalink designs and produces a variety of gearboxes in spur and planetary gearbox designs that feature polymer gears on ball or sintered bearings. The range also consists of ovoid-style gearheads, which include planetary gear assemblies for the output stages and a combination of spur gears for input stages. These are available in a choice of ultra-polymer materials.

The new absolute encoders are included in the company’s latest catalogue, which also features three new ranges of DC motor technologies – brushless, rare earth and heavy case – and new brushless version of the Red Drive motion controller and several gearbox lines.