SICK (www.sick.com) has introduced its first rotary encoders that feature a built-in Ethernet IP interfaces at the SPS/IPC/Drives show in Germany. The AFM60 multi-turn and AFS60 single-turn absolute encoders utilize the Ethernet interfaces to monitor networks and for diagnostics.
Its integrated diagnostic functions include monitoring the internal temperature of the encoder. Once the device exceeded its preset limits, it produces a message warning the user of a possible critical operating state.
The encoders are fitted with two hour counters, one of which monitors when the power is applied while the other counts the shaft rotation. It features five dual LEDs that show the status of its ports, the data transfer activity as well as its functions.
The programmable encoder can also monitor programmable position limit values such as those for cam switching. It can also detect speed, protecting the encoder as well as the plant from overloads.
Complying with ODVA specifications, the encoder features a DLR (device level ring) network monitoring function that transmits information packages known as beacon frames through the dual port switch of the encoder at brief intervals. Its sensor conducts availability tests among the network devices as well as on the connections between them. Once a fault is identified, the transmission alters direction in less than three ms to restore the communications between the controller and the devices.
Meanwhile, the multi-turn encoder integrates a rotary axis function that reduces the time as well as the machine integration costs in various applications like rotary tables and drives that feature transmission or reduction gears. Representing the steps for every rotation as a fraction, the function helps machine-builders avoid complicated control programming and drive calculations.
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