Browse by Editorial Category
Browse by Edition Date

July 2014

Skip Navigation Links.
Expand Applying TechnologyApplying Technology
Expand Automation-Robotics-Mfg SystemsAutomation-Robotics-Mfg Systems
Expand EDM Machinery-ConsumablesEDM Machinery-Consumables
Expand Current NewsCurrent News
Collapse Micro MfgMicro Mfg
Expand Plant Safety-Worker Protection-ErgonomicsPlant Safety-Worker Protection-Ergonomics

show all editions →

Click here to watch Tutorial Videos >

New Miniature Incremental Optical Encoder



20 um cabled head on 55 mm RCLC.

20 um Cabled head + rule.

Renishaw's new ATOM non-contact optical linear and rotary incremental encoder system combines miniaturization with dirt immunity, signal stability and reliability, according to the company.

"With a readhead as small as 6.7 x 12.7 x 20.5 mm, ATOM is the world's first miniature encoder to use filtering optics with Auto Gain Control (AGC) and Auto Offset Control (AOC) for enhanced signal stability and dirt immunity," said a company spokesperson. Applications include laser scanning, precision micro stages, semiconductor, medical, DDR motors, microscopy, scientific research and space-critical motion control, inspection and metrology.

The ATOM system is designed to provide elevated metrology performance and accuracy, with low Sub-Divisional Error (SDE), low jitter and long-term reliability, according to the company. ATOM offers analog speeds to 20 m/s (29,000 RPM on a 17 mm disc) and digital resolutions to 1 nm when used with Renishaw interpolation electronics. The readhead includes a set-up LED to allow quick and easy installation, and an auto-calibration routine to enable faster optimization. Scale options include linear and rotary (angle) scales in stainless steel and glass.

The ultra-compact ATOM readhead is available with either high-flex cable or Flexible-Printed Circuit (FPC) output, in both 20 um and 40 um scale options, with compact interface electronics in ACi and Ri options. The FPC variant reduces the overall package size and allows integration with ACi. A variety of high-accuracy scales is available, including industry-standard stainless steel tapes, high accuracy linear glass spars and rotary glass discs from 17 mm to 108 mm in diameter.

Optional interfaces support interpolation factors to x 20,000, allowing enhanced metrology and dynamic performance. Designers can also use the sinusoidal signal output from the readhead for direct connection to analog drives and controllers.

ATOM is CE-approved and manufactured in-house at Renishaw under quality controls certified to ISO 9001:2008. Advanced, automated manufacturing processes help minimize process variability. ATOM is backed by Renishaw's global sales and support network.

For more information contact:

Renishaw Inc.

5277 Trillium Blvd

Hoffman Estates, IL 60192

847-286-9953

usa@renishaw.com

www.renishaw.com

< back