LINEPULS & LINECOD catalogue 2016 in English

LINEPULS • LINECOD
Technical information
Linear encoders
Linear encoders are measuring systems that
generate signals in response to a linear motion.
They are specifically designed to convert a linear
motion into either analogue/digital electrical signals
or a digital code in order to determine the
change in position.
They basically consist of a readhead (oxtherwise
referred to as sensing head hereinafter) and an
active measurement scale, namely a magnetic
tape (sometimes a passive measurement tape could be used in specific applications -for instance a ferromagnetic
toothed structure. For any information on such dedicated measuring systems see on page 23).
The readhead encompasses MR magneto-resistive sensors/Hall sensors (see on page 12) and the converting/
translation circuitry (see on page 12). The readhead is paired with a magnetic tape that encodes the incremental/
absolute position information.
When the sensing head is moved along the tape without contact, it reads the sequence of North-South poles and
converts the encoded datum position into an analogue/digital signal or a digital code.
Thus the linear encoder is able to provide the motion controller with information concerning travel, position,
displacement, direction, velocity and acceleration.
Linear encoders offer great advantages. The magnetic sensing technology is non-contact and frictionless; the
use of miniaturized sensor modules and circuitries allow for very compact and slim enclosures; the operation
without mobile mechanical elements minimize the risks of errors and failures (no bearings are used!). In addition
they can be easily protected against contaminants using methods such as tropicalization, conformal coating, encapsulating
or varnishing thus easily achieving the highest IP ratings (IP67 to IP69K).
Linear encoders from Lika Electronic have minimal dimensions and provide high immunity to interferences and
most contaminants. Since they detect change in the magnetic field, they are insensitive to external influences such
as light, dust, moisture, oil, grease, water jets and a variety of chemical agents.
They work without contact and ensure virtually wear & maintenance-free operation.
Furthermore they are able to offer high reliability, enduring service and long operating life even in demanding
conditions and under dirt, shocks, vibrations, temperature fluctuations and significant mechanical stresses.
Linear sensors are claimed to reliably operate in the most aggressive and harshest industrial environments
and ideally suited for applications where small size, high robustness and fine resolution are mandatory.
Among the typical applications are:
• motion systems, direct drives and linear motors;
• electronic and semiconductors assembly systems, PCB assembly equipment and wire bonders;
• product handling equipment, robotics, pick-and-place lines;
• machining tools (boring machines, lathes, cutting and bending machines …);
• telescopic systems and hydraulic pistons (outriggers, stabilizing slides, telescopic cranes, booms of mobile
equipment …);
• valve actuators;
• utility vehicles and industrial trucks;
• forklifts, scissor lifts and loading platforms;
• medical technology applications such as examination tables, X-ray machines, dentist's chairs and laboratory
testing devices;
• electro-medical and metrology instruments;
• printing machines, presses and converting machineries;
• textile, wood, metal and stone working machineries.
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