For coders, there are both positive and negative aspects of using encoders. For hobbyists, there are more benefits than negative. Encoders are a great time-saver and can save a great deal of time. Encoder software also offers administrative functions to aid researchers in their work. It is important to choose the right software package based on your needs and preferences. To get the best out of your encoder software, read on to learn about the benefits of using this technology.
Types of Encoders
There are two types of encoders: absolute and incremental. The former provides position information when power is applied. They are best for equipment that runs infrequently. The latter does not provide position information at startup and only keeps track of distance. To obtain the absolute position of incremental encoders, you need to set them to a reference position and zero the counters. This way, you can accurately determine the position of your equipment without having to worry about electrical noise.
Another major benefit of encoders is their flexibility. Programmability allows users to match the encoder to changing needs. For example, SICK encoders can be programmed to any integer line count, instead of binary. And they can be reprogrammed as often as needed. Furthermore, high-resolution encoders eliminate the need for interpolation and provide the highest level of precision and accuracy.
Uses for Encoders in Manufacturing
Encoders are essential for many applications. Besides providing motion feedback, they can be used to track distance and speed of objects. For example, they can help robotic arms to work in different places, such as welding or assembling. Encoders can also help keep robotic welding arms in the correct positions. A high-speed encoder can help ensure that robotic welding arms are aligned properly. There are countless other uses for encoders in manufacturing.
High-precision positioning is a crucial advantage of encoders. They provide accurate feedback information to control motion. Because they can measure speed, direction, and distance, they have become the preferred technology in many areas of industry. Encoders can be found in almost anything – from robots, to scientific equipment, to printers. You will be amazed at how many things are controlled by an encoder.
Encoder’s Life can be Prolonged by Limiting Exposure to the Environment
When working with an encoder, you must protect it from debris. Foreign objects, such as glass or metal, can cause it to malfunction. This debris can cause damage to the encoder or even shock it. Your encoder’s life can be prolonged by limiting exposure to the environment. You should also ensure that the encoders are installed in a clean environment free of debris. It is always better to choose encoders with these qualities than to use a system without them.
The quality of the information is also an important benefit. An encoder with high accuracy will give you a higher-quality result than a simpler encoder. Encoders can reduce errors in motion by as much as 99%. They can also increase the speed of a system by as much as 50%. If your machine is moving faster than you expected, an encoder will ensure it doesn’t fall behind.
It is not Always Practical to Install Encoders Directly onto the Machine
Anaheim Automation’s line of encoders are cost-effective and a wise decision when it comes to feedback control. Anaheim Automation’s range of encoders includes optical and magnetic rotary encoders that can sink and source eight milliamps each. You can even get encoders that are bearing-less. There are many advantages to using encoders and choosing the right one will depend on your requirements.
The encoders can be mounted inside the machine or installed outside, and the processing can be performed by a separate processor. This way, the encoder can take account of the gearing between the normal cycle and the device. However, it is not always practical to install encoders directly onto the machine, in which case it is recommended to use the output of an intermediate gear box. Once mounted, the encoder will have the necessary gearing ratio to apply the proper gearing to the motor-driven shaft.
These Benefits make it a Worthwhile Investment for Industrial Applications
Stall detection is another benefit. This function notifies the user if the motor is stalling, which is much better than position verification. It continuously compares encoder counts to the target motor position. This way, the corrective move can be implemented sooner. When a motor stalls, the encoder will tell you about it and the controller can make an appropriate adjustment. These benefits make it a worthwhile investment for industrial applications.
High-resolution encoders: The higher the resolution, the better the speed control is. A high-resolution encoder with 5000 CPT would provide ten times the feedback as a 5000-CPT encoder with a similar resolution. Higher resolution encoders also help in speed stability. They are ideal for high-speed applications and for sensitive and complex motion. These machines often have high mass inertia and are thus ideal for industrial applications.
