Product category:
Measurement systems
News Release from: Heidenhain (GB) | Subject: Linear encoders
Edited by the Manufacturingtalk Editorial
Team on 25 August 2005
Linear encoders tolerate contamination
Linear encoders with high resolution are highly tolerant to contamination, and provide long-term stability while being quick and simple to mount.
Industry's requirement for faster and more precise machines to increase productivity and reduce manufacturing costs is reflected in the development of direct drive technology, the decisive advantage being the extremely stiff coupling of the drive to the feed component without any other mechanical transfer elements However, productivity gains are optimised only when the control, motor and position encoder are matched to each other
This article was originally published on Manufacturingtalk on 30 Mar 2001 at 8.00am (UK)
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Central to this is the selection of the correct linear encoder.
With a direct drive the encoder is responsible for measuring position and speed.
This demands that the encoder must have a high resolution in order to deliver exact velocity control at low traverse speeds.
Heidenhain's extensive range of encoders for linear motors offers the optimum solution to numerous positioning challenges encountered in the electronics industry and a comprehensive technical information sheet is available free-of-charge.
Today's encoders feature either an absolute or an incremental method of position measurement, and the quality of their performance is dependent on the interpolation error that occurs when processing the output signals.
Linear encoders that generate a high-quality position signal with low-interpolation errors are essential for optimal operation of direct drives used in the electronics industry.
Typically, these use photoelectric scanning because very fine graduations can be scanned by this method.
In the case of Heidenhain's encoders, graduations range from 1 to 40 micron and are manufactured using the photolithographic process.
This provides a high edge definition that translates into low interpolation error and smooth performance with high loop gain.
The demand for high acceleration and compact design within the semiconductor industry calls for exposed linear encoders that require special scanning methods and production techniques to provide protection against contamination.
Linear encoders manufactured by Heidenhain are highly tolerant to contamination, and provide long-term stability while being quick and simple to mount. Request a free brochure from Heidenhain (GB) ...
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