Linear encoders are electronic sensors used to measure position along a straight line in robotics and automation systems. They use different sensing methods, such as optical, magnetic, or eddy currents, to determine position. The data can be incremental or absolute and is used for informational purposes or as part of a computerized system.
A linear encoder is a type of electronic sensor that can measure a position along a straight line. They are commonly used in robotics and automation systems. There are several types of linear encoders, each of which uses a different sensing method to determine the encoder’s position.
All varieties of this tool require both a scale and a sensor to use properly. The scale is a straight piece of material that is marked at constant intervals, similar to a common yardstick. A sensor within the linear encoder device is able to detect each of these ranges as it moves past the slide. Each time the sensor senses and counts a range mark, the output of the linear encoder changes.
Optical linear encoders are very common and use high contrast visible markings on the scale. The sensor on this tool usually emits infrared, visible or laser light on the markings. The light pulses reflected from the scale marks are detected and counted. An optical encoder can be very accurate and is often able to determine linear position to within a micrometer.
Not all linear encoder markings are visible to the human eye. Magnetic encoders use small magnetic areas built into the scale. Each area of magnetism is detected by the sensor and counted. These are usually not as accurate as the optical variety, but can be used in dirty or humid environments which would hamper optical sensing methods.
A third type of encoder uses eddy currents to determine position. Eddy currents are created by the movement of a magnetic field past a conductor. The scale of an eddy current encoder is designed to have different levels of magnetic resistance. Areas of low and high magnetic resistance are detected by monitoring the eddy currents caused by induction.
Position data captured by a linear encoder can be incremental or absolute. Incremental position readings simply indicate how far the encoder has moved in a straight line. Absolute readings, on the other hand, contain data on exactly where the encoder is along the scale.
Linear encoder data is sometimes used for informational purposes only on a readout or display. The data can also be used as part of a more sophisticated computerized system. Encoders are often used to provide a computer device, such as an industrial robot or automated machine, with feedback on the position and travel distance of moving parts.
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