Renishaw was on-hand at the Sensors Expo to discuss their new generation of position encoders for harsh environments. Traditional optical encoders are essential components in motion control systems, though it is necessary to protect them from harsh environments. This limits the diversity of applications where encoders can be deployed and can add substantial cost. According to the company's press release, RLS magnetic encoders provide many of the features of optical encoders but with increased robustness. 

The RLS encoders are 100 percent solid-state devices with no moving parts, sensitive optics, or seals and bearings that can wear out or become contaminated. They offer a full range of output formats including AB quadrature, analog voltage, UVW commutation and linear voltage. They also provide absolute position output with resolution up to 13 bits. A wide range of package configurations makes the encoders practical for integration into OEM systems.

In addition, Renishaw upgraded its 13-bit magnetic encoder and presented it at the show with improved time delay and accuracy, plus performance tailoring capabilities. The AM8192B increases operational speeds to 38,000 rpm at a 13-bit resolution. A software interface allows designers to choose optimum settings based on the application and provides a HEX setting file for easy upload.

The non-contact design of the encoder gives OEMs reliable solutions for difficult and extreme operating conditions. Sine and cosine voltage outputs vary with magnet position, which the encoder's interpolator converts to a range of binary and decimal resolutions. It's also able to cancel magnetic interference, permitting operation in areas of high external magnetic fields.