Posted to News on 4th Oct 2010, 19:29
Ovoid style gearboxes now available with absolute encoder
Miniature power transmission specialists Rotalink has added an innovative low-cost absolute encoder to its motion control range. For use with Rotalink's ovoid style gearboxes, the compact encoder is fitted directly on the rear side of output shaft to measure the load position and is available for single-turn 360-degree rotation or in a multi-turn version for up to 32,000 revolutions. Using long-life and highly reliable non-contacting magnetic technology, the absolute encoder provides a choice of 0-5V linear analogue output or a 10-bit per 360-degree positional data via a synchronous serial interface (SSI).
The new device may be useful to replace potentiometer based angle encoders by combining motor and position feedback in a single component or for low cost servo feedback in linear and rotary actuators. Absolute position feedback is also extremely useful for machine homing. The innovative multi-turn option includes an integral rechargeable battery that maintains full position information for up 20 hours if machine power is removed.
Rotalink designs and manufactures a wide range of gearboxes in planetary and spur gearbox designs that feature polymer gears on sintered or ball bearings. The range also includes unique ovoid style gearheads that include a combination of spur gears for the input stages and planetary gear assemblies for the output stages. These are also available in a choice of ultra-polymer materials. The flexibility available from these options allow customers to match their exact application requirements without cost compromise.
Rotalink also manufacture incremental encoder feedback devices as well as speed controls and motion controls including the innovative Red Drive - a powerful DC motor drive for motors up to 200 Watts which features drag-and-drop flow chart programming for motion control with incremental encoder feedback.
These innovative absolute encoders are included in Rotalink's new and revised full range catalogue which details three new ranges of DC motor technologies (rare earth, heavy case and brushless) as well as several new gearbox lines and a brushless version of Rotalink's Red Drive motion controller.
