True absolute encoder to star at automation technologies show

At ATX 2010, taking place in Anaheim, California, from February 9-11, Renishaw will focus on its latest range of motion control products, including a true absolute optical encoder for rotary and linear applications, a unique track-mounted linear encoder scale system, and magnetic encoder chip.

Also shown will be the new QC20-W wireless ballbar which assesses machine tool positioning and servo control performance, and now includes a volumetric testing capability, plus a range of new touch probes and probe software that increase machine tool automation and improve process control. For visitors sourcing off-line measurement products, there will also be the opportunity to discuss Renishaw’s new retrofit service for co-ordinate measuring machines (CMMs), including MODUS™ the company’s first metrology software.

True absolute optical encoder

RESOLUTE™ is a true absolute optical encoder system that has excellent dirt immunity, and an impressive specification that breaks new ground in position feedback. Visitors to ATX 2010 will see that it gives an astonishing market-leading resolution of just 1 nanometer at 100 meters per second for both linear encoder and angle encoder applications. Absolute position is acquired immediately at system switch-on, so the exact orientation of axis and motor commutation angle are known without the need for a reference (datum) return. Large set-up tolerances also enable easy installation and high reliability, whilst low jitter and SDE (Sub-Divisional Error) meet the demands of high precision stages.

Linear encoder track scale

FASTRACK™ is a revolutionary track-mounted linear encoder scale system that combines ±5 µm/m accuracy, with the ruggedness of stainless steel, and the quick and easy installation of a carrier-type encoder system. Designed for applications that demand high accuracy and easily removable scale, ATX visitors will see that the FASTRACK scale system consists of two miniature guide rails that securely retain Renishaw’s new low-profile scales and allow them to freely expand at their own thermal expansion coefficient with almost zero hysteresis. If damaged, the scale can be pulled out of the guide rails and quickly replaced, even where access is limited, thus reducing machine downtime.

Magnetic encoder chip

Renishaw’s new AM4096 magnetic encoder IC developed by its associate company RLS d.o.o. provides UVW outputs with 16 poles (8 pole pairs), incremental, absolute, linear (potentiometer), tacho generator and sinusoidal outputs. Resolution is to 12-bit (4096 steps per turn) with a programmable zero position and it is capable of high speed operation to 30,000 rpm. Typical applications for the new on-chip magnetic encoder include commutation and high-speed motor control, position and velocity control, potentiometer replacement and optical encoder replacement.

For more information about Renishaw’s range of position feedback encoders, visit www.renishaw.com/encoders.

About Automation Technology Expo West (ATX)

Described by the organisers as ‘Manufacturing’s Marketplace for Automation and Assembly’, the ATX show includes robotics, control software, motors, drives and motion control systems. It is located in the Convention Center in Anaheim, California, and is co-located with complementary shows such as Medical Design & Manufacturing West, Plastec West, Electronics West and the Pacific Design & Manufacturing Show.

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