Variohm Euro Sensor | Autosport Edition

VariohmNews0903_G:Variohm 6 Page

12/03/2009

14:00

Page 1

Variohm launch new low cost single/multiturn magnetic absolute rotary encoder with CANopen interface

V

Variohm Holdings Group

Compact and rugged magnetic technology includes 32-bit processor and offers excellent cost proposition

ariohm EuroSensor has released a new range of competitively priced high-resolution single/multiturn absolute rotary encoders from German position sensor specialists Wachendorff Automation GmbH.

The innovative WDGA series features an on-board 32-bit processor and full CANopen interface that handles the conversion of the encoder’s rugged magnetic position technology to output 4096 steps per rev (12-bit) at rates up to 1 Mbaud and with a multi-turn capacity of 131072 revs (17-bit). The WDGA series is ideal for space limited applications as a feedback device for positioning systems requiring long life and low maintenance -

and unit pricing is estimated at 30% below comparable technology.

The WDGA is built for maximum resilience and compactness with a nominal 36 mm diameter aluminium housing and stainlesssteel shaft with dual low-friction precision

bearing support. Protection rating is to IP67 protection with shaft sealing to IP65 (optional IP67) and operating temperature range is -40º C to +80º C. Mounting alternatives are via standard 36 mm diameter synchro/resolver flange mount, a 58 mm diameter clamping flange or 6 mm diameter blind hollow shaft. Maximum speed for the clamping flange version is 12000 rpm.

The extensive CANopen functionality includes a DS301 communication profile and DS-406 device profile. Position speed and acceleration output is included along with work area supervision, encoder cam and scaling capability plus comprehensive diagnostics.

Non-contact ‘touchless technology’ magnetic sensor helps steer versatile tractor

Robust two-part magnetic sensor provides highly reliable position feedback for innovative steering system on multi-use tractor

O

ne of the key features of the versatile Multidrive 6185 tractor is its Pentronic 5-function, allwheel steering system which includes highly reliable Novotechnik RFC4800 ‘touchless technology’ non-contacting angle sensors supplied by Variohm EuroSensor.

separate sensor which is encased in a robust IP69 rated sealed housing made from high-grade and temperature resistant plastic.

The 2 or 4 wheel steering system, with independent axle control and advanced features that prevent crop damage and soil compaction, means that the Gloucestershire built vehicle can carry and haul heavy loads as well as perform meticulous spraying and spreading tasks making the adaptable 6185 suitable for all areas of farming.

For Multidrive, a part of Kellands Agricultural Ltd, the reliability and durability of equipment used on the 6185 is paramount and they worked closely with Variohm to ensure that these critical position feedback components met their stringent standards. The tractor is used all over the world and sees wide variations in temperature and humidity and needs to perform faultlessly, regardless of the terrain and weather conditions.

The RFC4800 angle sensor provides a 12bit resolution (0.09 degrees) analogue output in a compact two-part design comprising a position marker with an encapsulated magnet that is attached to the customer’s shaft, and a physically

As a bearing system is not used, installation is straightforward and removes the need for mechanical couplings eliminating the additional problems of load applied to the shaft of the existing sensor.

Suited to space restricted envelopes the transmissive properties between magnet and sensor means that operation can be made through non-magnetic materials.

Furthermore, as the position output is absolute and the angular relationship between magnet and sensor is fixed, there is no need for elaborate calibration on setup or a need to reset the steering position when restoring power to the vehicle.

A choice of three models is available for supply voltages of 5 VDC, 12 VDC or 12/24 VDC. Optional output formats include 0 – 10 VDC, 0.5 – 4.5 VDC, a ratiometric voltage based upon a pre-calibrated percentage of the input, and 4 – 20 mA. The standard electrical angle is 360 degrees but optional 30 to 360 degree specials are available as redundant output versions and IP67 rated housings.

The touchless non-contacting technology used in the RFC4800 series offers an effectively unlimited life for the mechanical parts and the 50000 hour MTBF quoted figure for the electronics will suit ultra long life applications. Equally impressive are the agricultural vehicle standard specifications for shock and vibration.

For more information on Variohm EuroSensor’s complete product range, contact us: +44 (0) 1327 351004, email sales@variohm.com or visit www.variohm.com

< Linear Sensors

< Rotary Sensors

< Load Sensors

< Force Sensors

< Temperature Sensors

< Pressure Sensors

Tel: +44(0)1327 351004 Fax: +44(0)1327 353564

< Cable Extension Transducers

< Inclinometers

< Weighing Controllers

< Vibration Sensors

< Pressure Switches

< Displays and interfaces

Email: sales@variohm.com Web: www.variohm.com

Variohm-EuroSensor Ltd

Williams’ Barns, Tiffield Road, Towcester, Northants. NN12 6HP

Zero Backlash Gears and Actuators

Inductive - Eddy Current Capacitance

Servo Motors and Drives Ceramic Servo Motors and Drives

Ultrasonic

Linear and Rotary Stages

Laser Long Range Laser

Precision Encoders

Colour

Non Indu Cont a ctiv e C ct Po a pac sitio The itive n Tow Stable Ultr Meas ce s s, T t i e u f aso fi r, N T: + orth eld Ro nic reme ww 44 (0) ad, ant w.ix 132 L aser nt sN 7 thu s.c 3510 N12 04 o.u k F 6 HP sal : + 4 es@ 4 (0 var ) 13 27 ioh m.c 353 564 om

Programmable Motion Controllers Heason Technology is one of the leading suppliers of Precision Motion Control Equipment specialising in ‘Experience Systems Integration’ and is now a major player in many diverse markets including Aerospace & Defence, Space, Printing, Semiconductor & Fibre-Optic Manufacturing Equipment, Simulation and Robotics.

Unit 6 Lawson Hunt Industrial Park Guildford Road Broadbridge Heath West Sussex RH12 3JR Tel: +44 (0)1403 755800 Fax: +44 (0)1403 755810 Email: sales@heason.com

www.variohmholdings.com

www.heason.com

Feedback Sensor & Motion

Welcome to this first edition of

Sensor & Motion Feedback We last published a company newsletter back in 1998 under the name “Innovations”. That publication was the third in a series of three which spanned a period of two to three years and it covered some of the applications on which Variohm Components had supplied sensors or other expertise. We ceased publication because the business was growing so quickly that we didn’t have time to put in the effort to keep it going.

Since 1998 we have changed and grown quite considerably. Since our inception in 1974 Variohm Components have been involved in supplying position measurement or feedback sensors and over the years we have enlarged the range to include loadcells, force sensing clevis pins and force sensing bolts.

The first major change which took place was the acquisition in 2002 of “Eurosensor” which was a well established supplier of pressure sensors, inclinometers and thermistors. This acquisition necessitated a name change and on 1st May 2002 we began trading as Variohm EuroSensor.

In 2003 we felt that our product portfolio was sufficiently large to allow us to start exporting in a serious way, so that year we established B + L Industrial Measurements in Heidelberg, Germany. This company manufacture weighing controllers as well as selling our transducers into the German market.

The year 2003 was a big one for us, as it was in 2003 that we also acquired Ixthus Instrumentation who specialize in selling noncontacting position sensors.

Just under two years ago we launched Heason Technology Limited from a base down in Horsham. Heason specialize in supplying precision motion control components and systems. Their range consists of a wide variety of motor, in various configurations and sizes together with a huge range of controllers. They also have a systems building capability so that you can purchase a complete, bespoke motion control setup from them.

You might question why I am bothering with all this “ancient history”.

Well it’s not just some old guy reminiscing in order to emphasize that Variohm Holdings as the group is now called have the expertise to specify and select the best sensors for any given application, to provide the motive systems for the job and even to build and commission a complete system for you.

So whether your particular job utilizes hydraulic, pneumatic or electrical control you should find the applications which we have selected for publication to be of interest. We hope to issue further editions of Sensor and Motion Feedback and to include items about our staff which we hope will allow you to put faces to some of the names that you are dealing with.

One final thought – since we include the word Feedback in our title we would like to hear from you, so if you have used our equipment on an unusual application or feel that you have something worth inclusion, please write or email, we will always be glad to hear from you.

Roy Moffatt Managing Director

Latest News from the Group

Variohm are pleased to announce they have recently strengthened their range of temperature measurement solutions. They have purchased the business of Thermisitor Sales Ltd, and are now the exclusive distributor for the Betatherm range.

Unique spherical rolling joint from Heason Technology offering full three degrees of rotation preloaded to achieve exceptionally smooth motion with extremely low frictional resistance and zero clearance.

Ixthus appointed UK distributors for Philtec fibre optic displacement sensor range.

VariohmNews0903_G:Variohm 6 Page

12/03/2009

14:05

Page 4

Cubic Transportation Systems choose non-contact angular position sensors for long life and increased reliability

Custom positioning solution for the innovative ZephIR® wind speed measurement system

Transportation systems giant chooses hall effect rotary sensors for next generation ticketing

minimal engineering effort. This improves reliability and reduces down-time associated with preventative maintenance.

As the Vert-X can be delivered with a preprogrammed angular range between 10 and 360 degrees. Variiohm was able to supply the replacement sensor with exactly the same output characteristics as the original potentiometer version.

W

hen Cubic Transportation Systems Inc, the global designer and manufacturer of mass transport ticketing systems looked to reduce maintenance and increase reliability on its range of access control gates, engineers at its UK based product development centre worked with Variohm EuroSensor to use the Contelec Vert-X 13 series noncontact Hall Effect sensor to improve performance.

Access gates collect traveller’s electronic fares using high speed ticket encoding from magnetic strip or contactless smart cards to validate and allow entry and exit. Cubic’s Universal Gate range has been designed to adapt to the diverse requirements of ticketing and gate siting as an integral part of complete software, hardware and communications systems that have revolutionised mass transportation

ticketing. One of Cubic’s major customers is Transport for London whose ticketing system uses the technology to its full allowing the Capital’s travellers to use just one smart card for tube, over ground rail and bus services.

The Universal Gate has two paddles to provide dual opening for travellers. Each gate flap is independently driven via a motor gearbox with a fixed rotation of up to 180 degrees, controlled using a feedback voltage set between an upper and lower value from the directly coupled angular position sensor. High traveller throughput rates require rapid accelerations and fast settling times which place high demands on all the components used.

The two part Hall Effect and magnet design of the Swiss manufactured Vert-X 13 series sensor provides a non-contact solution with substantially improved life and superior performance with the added bonus of

World’s smallest stringpot sensor

Thanks to its small size of just 13 mm in diameter and 20 mm nominal length, the Vert-X was easily installed within the existing space available, and with its durable stainless steel housing and integral ball bearing system the new sensor was able to satisfy the environmental specifications required.

A further benefit was revealed by the true linear output and improved accuracy the new solution provided. Rather than a working tolerance of +/-10 mV to set up the potentiometer, Cubic engineers found they could achieve almost pin-point accuracy which considerably improved in-position stability and the superior linearity also enhanced the control system smoothness.

“The Vert-X solution was trialled during 2007 at a new rapid transit system project in Atlanta-Georgia and quickly proved successful” says Colin Peacock of Cubic’s Redhill - UK engineering department, “The reliability gains and improved life time of the non-contact solution has considerably reduced the Universal Gate maintenance burden and it is now the design choice for new and retrofitted access gates worldwide.”

Thumbprint sized ‘stringpot’ cable extension transducers (or draw wire sensor) suits space critical automotive and aerospace applications

T

he world’s smallest stringpot or draw-wire sensor, the Celesco M150, is available from Variohm EuroSensor, the European sensor and transducer specialist.

With its miniature conductive plastic potentiometer, robust IP50 rated aluminium housing and nylon coated stainless steel cable, the M150 can be installed in a volume of less than 20 mm x 20 mm x 10 mm and provides an essentially infinite linear position resolution over measurement range of 0 – 38 mm with a +/1% full scale accuracy.

Aimed at demanding space restricted applications such as throttle position feedback and vibration/displacement measurement in vehicle testing, the thumbprint sized unit is easily installed with two threaded mounting holes and supplied with 450 mm multi-conductor cable.

With a 10g vibration rating at 30 to 2000 Hz and a potentiometer life rating of 5 million cycles, the durable M150 is designed for a long life in the arduous conditions found in the automotive and aerospace industries.

H

eason Technology has developed a customised high precision positioning solution with ceramic motor technology for an innovative Wind Resource Measurement System used to determine optimal sites for offshore and onshore wind farms.

For more information on Variohm EuroSensor’s complete product range, contact us: +44 (0) 1327 351004 email sales@variohm.com or visit www.variohm.com

terms, ZephIR projects a conical infrared beam to illuminate particles in the atmosphere which are detected as backscattered light by an integral receiver.

Target particles along the beam produce a Doppler shift allowing the processed information to determine wind speed and direction in five pre-selected, highly accurate and repeatable distances up to 200 metres above the instrument. The technology is proving to offer a significant advantage over traditional wind measurement masts which involve the costly erection of large structures, require lengthy building permission timescales, and also elicit health and safety concerns.

Heason’s initial involvement in the project was with QinetiQ, a leading global research and development laboratory that began working on a commercially viable solution for wind measurement back in the early 2000’s using its extensive knowledge of LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging). The product is now field proven and licensed to Natural Power, a leading renewable energy solutions provider based in Scotland.

ZephIR, a laser anemometer, is an easily transportable ground-based instrument combining three sealed pods for laser optics, data collection/communication electronics and battery power. In simple

Heason’s brief was to design and deliver a robust single-axis sub-micron positioning assembly for the high speed focussing of the fibre-optic lens arrangement which in turn determines the application-critical height accuracy. The scope of supply covers a ring-type mechanical assembly

with a ceramic servo motor, a linear positioning stage with precision bearings, an optical linear encoder capable submicron measuring steps, and fibre-optic lens fixturing. Heason also supply the servo drive amplifier and motion controller with all interconnecting cable assemblies to carry power and signals through the three separately sealed GRP pods. The specification calls for high acceleration and high speed to maintain the ZephIR’s 20 millisecond measurement window whilst maintaining the positioning resolution requirement at the microns level over a travel range of 15 mm.

Nanomotion’s Duramotor

Megaflux series thin-ring torque motors

Large diameter-to-length form factor, through-hole construction and frameless rotor/stator design suit space-saving rotary positioning applications

A

range of brushless servo motors with a separate rotor and stator design, aimed at the smooth precise control and direct-drive of large inertia or high torque loads, is available from precision motion specialists Heason Technology Limited. The Megaflux thin-ring torque motor from USA manufacturer Emoteq Corporation has an inherently large diameter-tolength ratio - from 150 mm x 30 mm to 760 mm x 123 mm – and covers continuous stall torque from 3 Nm to over 2000 Nm.

The frameless construction and spacesaving form factor of the Megaflux allows the motor to be directly integrated on the driven shaft eliminating the resonance associated with flexible couplings; and with

no need for a gearbox, the high torque/low cog output is backlash-free ensuring precise control.

The large through-hole is especially useful for accommodating electrical wiring and other services such as slip ring assemblies and beam delivery systems whilst the form factor will suit OEMs requiring rotary positioning axes in space restricted applications. The Megaflux has been widely used in robotics, azimuth/elevation tracking devices, laser scanning systems, and machine tools.

The standard range covers eight frame sizes and forty models with motor characteristics fully specified in a 24 page catalogue available in hard copy or as a PDF from Heason Technology. In addition, customised windings are available to

optimise the applications’ torque and speed performance requirements. Hall sensors can also be built into the assembly, simplifying commutation.

For more information on Heason Technology’s motion control products, contact us: +44 (0)1403 755800, email sales@heason.com or visit www.heason.com

Down-hole strain gauging technology is getting smaller – and lower forces can be measured

Patented strain gauge technology enables space saving and well protected force measurement transducers to be directly embedded into custom designed structural components

A

patented technology that allows strain gauges to be mounted directly inside the customers’ components, saving space, removing extraneous errors and enabling design innovation, is available from Ixthus.

The durable down-hole strain gauge technique from leading USA strain measurement specialist Strainsert Inc, provides an elegant load measurement solution and recent developments now allow the technology to measure forces as low as 100 N and design miniaturisation also means they can be built into even smaller areas of just 3 mm diameter and within lengths of only 100 mm.

The technology is available through Ixthus in Strainsert’s standard load sensing product range that includes flat load cells, load sensing bolts and studs, tension links, and clevis pins but Ixthus are also able to provide OEMs and research organisations with these miniature strain gauges directly assembled into customised load bearing components and structures, either built to design or assembled into free-issued parts with full calibration and certification as required.

Unlike strain gauges that are attached on the outside of load bearing components, the downhole strain gauge, typically bonded into a small hole in the neutral axis of the load sensing path, is insensitive to offcentre loading, bending and extraneous load forces. Furthermore, the sealed and encapsulated miniature assembly is extremely well protected against harsh environments and materials can be selected to comply with application fatigue ratings and international safety standards. Compensation for pressure, temperature and safety redundancy can also be built into customised designs and the technology also lends itself to space restricted precision shear and torque measurement.

The typical force measurement range across standard and customised downhole strain gauges is between 100 N and 5 MN, with 0.1% linearity.

Ixthus Instrumentation provides complete technical and sales support for the entire range from Strainsert and are on hand to advise and assist customers with standard products and customised applications.

Ixthus have applied and adapted these innovative products over several years in all areas of industry and research for demanding applications in military, aerospace, marine and subsea, oil and gas, mining and quarry, hoist and crane, and automotive.

Thread presence detection sensor is Go-NoGo for internal and external threads Eddy current probe and electronics module provides precise thread presence measurement for critical automated assembly and manufacturing applications

T

he ThreadChecker™ from Kaman Inc. is a new non-contact sensor range designed to check both internal and external thread presence for critical parts manufacture and automated assembly line applications.

Available exclusively in the UK from Ixthus Instrumentation, the range consists of a choice of IP67 rated eddy current probes and an electronics module with both output and visual indication for Go-NoGo distance, set between the probe and the thread.

Four internal probes measure threaded holes to 14 mm diameter and two external probes for threaded shafts to 10 mm diameter. Available to suit most metal materials, the robust probes operate at

temperatures up to 70º C and as Kaman’s rugged and reliable eddy current technology does not require a high level of part cleanliness, operation in hostile and dirty environments is guaranteed.

The CE compliant ThreadChecker range features both switched relay and analogue outputs which can be wired to a PLC programmed to alarm when no thread is detected. A teach function, using an integral pushbutton and a three-state LED is also available for manual set-up and operation. The electronics module can be panel or DIN rail mounted.

The range is part of Kaman’s GageProx™ family which uses a single-ended input and fixed-gain output technology that is ideal for set-it-and forget-it gauging applications in the metal forming industry for in-die parts inspection as well as automated assembly and test in automotive and white goods manufacture, and many other demanding thread presence measurement applications in the machine shop and clean room alike.

For more information on Ixthus non contact sensors, contact us: +44 (0)1327 353437, email sales@ixthus.co.uk or visit www.ixthus.co.uk

VariohmNews0903_G:Variohm 6 Page

12/03/2009

14:05

Page 4

Cubic Transportation Systems choose non-contact angular position sensors for long life and increased reliability

Custom positioning solution for the innovative ZephIR® wind speed measurement system

Transportation systems giant chooses hall effect rotary sensors for next generation ticketing

minimal engineering effort. This improves reliability and reduces down-time associated with preventative maintenance.

As the Vert-X can be delivered with a preprogrammed angular range between 10 and 360 degrees. Variiohm was able to supply the replacement sensor with exactly the same output characteristics as the original potentiometer version.

W

hen Cubic Transportation Systems Inc, the global designer and manufacturer of mass transport ticketing systems looked to reduce maintenance and increase reliability on its range of access control gates, engineers at its UK based product development centre worked with Variohm EuroSensor to use the Contelec Vert-X 13 series noncontact Hall Effect sensor to improve performance.

Access gates collect traveller’s electronic fares using high speed ticket encoding from magnetic strip or contactless smart cards to validate and allow entry and exit. Cubic’s Universal Gate range has been designed to adapt to the diverse requirements of ticketing and gate siting as an integral part of complete software, hardware and communications systems that have revolutionised mass transportation

ticketing. One of Cubic’s major customers is Transport for London whose ticketing system uses the technology to its full allowing the Capital’s travellers to use just one smart card for tube, over ground rail and bus services.

The Universal Gate has two paddles to provide dual opening for travellers. Each gate flap is independently driven via a motor gearbox with a fixed rotation of up to 180 degrees, controlled using a feedback voltage set between an upper and lower value from the directly coupled angular position sensor. High traveller throughput rates require rapid accelerations and fast settling times which place high demands on all the components used.

The two part Hall Effect and magnet design of the Swiss manufactured Vert-X 13 series sensor provides a non-contact solution with substantially improved life and superior performance with the added bonus of

World’s smallest stringpot sensor

Thanks to its small size of just 13 mm in diameter and 20 mm nominal length, the Vert-X was easily installed within the existing space available, and with its durable stainless steel housing and integral ball bearing system the new sensor was able to satisfy the environmental specifications required.

A further benefit was revealed by the true linear output and improved accuracy the new solution provided. Rather than a working tolerance of +/-10 mV to set up the potentiometer, Cubic engineers found they could achieve almost pin-point accuracy which considerably improved in-position stability and the superior linearity also enhanced the control system smoothness.

“The Vert-X solution was trialled during 2007 at a new rapid transit system project in Atlanta-Georgia and quickly proved successful” says Colin Peacock of Cubic’s Redhill - UK engineering department, “The reliability gains and improved life time of the non-contact solution has considerably reduced the Universal Gate maintenance burden and it is now the design choice for new and retrofitted access gates worldwide.”

Thumbprint sized ‘stringpot’ cable extension transducers (or draw wire sensor) suits space critical automotive and aerospace applications

T

he world’s smallest stringpot or draw-wire sensor, the Celesco M150, is available from Variohm EuroSensor, the European sensor and transducer specialist.

With its miniature conductive plastic potentiometer, robust IP50 rated aluminium housing and nylon coated stainless steel cable, the M150 can be installed in a volume of less than 20 mm x 20 mm x 10 mm and provides an essentially infinite linear position resolution over measurement range of 0 – 38 mm with a +/1% full scale accuracy.

Aimed at demanding space restricted applications such as throttle position feedback and vibration/displacement measurement in vehicle testing, the thumbprint sized unit is easily installed with two threaded mounting holes and supplied with 450 mm multi-conductor cable.

With a 10g vibration rating at 30 to 2000 Hz and a potentiometer life rating of 5 million cycles, the durable M150 is designed for a long life in the arduous conditions found in the automotive and aerospace industries.

H

eason Technology has developed a customised high precision positioning solution with ceramic motor technology for an innovative Wind Resource Measurement System used to determine optimal sites for offshore and onshore wind farms.

For more information on Variohm EuroSensor’s complete product range, contact us: +44 (0) 1327 351004 email sales@variohm.com or visit www.variohm.com

terms, ZephIR projects a conical infrared beam to illuminate particles in the atmosphere which are detected as backscattered light by an integral receiver.

Target particles along the beam produce a Doppler shift allowing the processed information to determine wind speed and direction in five pre-selected, highly accurate and repeatable distances up to 200 metres above the instrument. The technology is proving to offer a significant advantage over traditional wind measurement masts which involve the costly erection of large structures, require lengthy building permission timescales, and also elicit health and safety concerns.

Heason’s initial involvement in the project was with QinetiQ, a leading global research and development laboratory that began working on a commercially viable solution for wind measurement back in the early 2000’s using its extensive knowledge of LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging). The product is now field proven and licensed to Natural Power, a leading renewable energy solutions provider based in Scotland.

ZephIR, a laser anemometer, is an easily transportable ground-based instrument combining three sealed pods for laser optics, data collection/communication electronics and battery power. In simple

Heason’s brief was to design and deliver a robust single-axis sub-micron positioning assembly for the high speed focussing of the fibre-optic lens arrangement which in turn determines the application-critical height accuracy. The scope of supply covers a ring-type mechanical assembly

with a ceramic servo motor, a linear positioning stage with precision bearings, an optical linear encoder capable submicron measuring steps, and fibre-optic lens fixturing. Heason also supply the servo drive amplifier and motion controller with all interconnecting cable assemblies to carry power and signals through the three separately sealed GRP pods. The specification calls for high acceleration and high speed to maintain the ZephIR’s 20 millisecond measurement window whilst maintaining the positioning resolution requirement at the microns level over a travel range of 15 mm.

Nanomotion’s Duramotor

Megaflux series thin-ring torque motors

Large diameter-to-length form factor, through-hole construction and frameless rotor/stator design suit space-saving rotary positioning applications

A

range of brushless servo motors with a separate rotor and stator design, aimed at the smooth precise control and direct-drive of large inertia or high torque loads, is available from precision motion specialists Heason Technology Limited. The Megaflux thin-ring torque motor from USA manufacturer Emoteq Corporation has an inherently large diameter-tolength ratio - from 150 mm x 30 mm to 760 mm x 123 mm – and covers continuous stall torque from 3 Nm to over 2000 Nm.

The frameless construction and spacesaving form factor of the Megaflux allows the motor to be directly integrated on the driven shaft eliminating the resonance associated with flexible couplings; and with

no need for a gearbox, the high torque/low cog output is backlash-free ensuring precise control.

The large through-hole is especially useful for accommodating electrical wiring and other services such as slip ring assemblies and beam delivery systems whilst the form factor will suit OEMs requiring rotary positioning axes in space restricted applications. The Megaflux has been widely used in robotics, azimuth/elevation tracking devices, laser scanning systems, and machine tools.

The standard range covers eight frame sizes and forty models with motor characteristics fully specified in a 24 page catalogue available in hard copy or as a PDF from Heason Technology. In addition, customised windings are available to

optimise the applications’ torque and speed performance requirements. Hall sensors can also be built into the assembly, simplifying commutation.

For more information on Heason Technology’s motion control products, contact us: +44 (0)1403 755800, email sales@heason.com or visit www.heason.com

Down-hole strain gauging technology is getting smaller – and lower forces can be measured

Patented strain gauge technology enables space saving and well protected force measurement transducers to be directly embedded into custom designed structural components

A

patented technology that allows strain gauges to be mounted directly inside the customers’ components, saving space, removing extraneous errors and enabling design innovation, is available from Ixthus.

The durable down-hole strain gauge technique from leading USA strain measurement specialist Strainsert Inc, provides an elegant load measurement solution and recent developments now allow the technology to measure forces as low as 100 N and design miniaturisation also means they can be built into even smaller areas of just 3 mm diameter and within lengths of only 100 mm.

The technology is available through Ixthus in Strainsert’s standard load sensing product range that includes flat load cells, load sensing bolts and studs, tension links, and clevis pins but Ixthus are also able to provide OEMs and research organisations with these miniature strain gauges directly assembled into customised load bearing components and structures, either built to design or assembled into free-issued parts with full calibration and certification as required.

Unlike strain gauges that are attached on the outside of load bearing components, the downhole strain gauge, typically bonded into a small hole in the neutral axis of the load sensing path, is insensitive to offcentre loading, bending and extraneous load forces. Furthermore, the sealed and encapsulated miniature assembly is extremely well protected against harsh environments and materials can be selected to comply with application fatigue ratings and international safety standards. Compensation for pressure, temperature and safety redundancy can also be built into customised designs and the technology also lends itself to space restricted precision shear and torque measurement.

The typical force measurement range across standard and customised downhole strain gauges is between 100 N and 5 MN, with 0.1% linearity.

Ixthus Instrumentation provides complete technical and sales support for the entire range from Strainsert and are on hand to advise and assist customers with standard products and customised applications.

Ixthus have applied and adapted these innovative products over several years in all areas of industry and research for demanding applications in military, aerospace, marine and subsea, oil and gas, mining and quarry, hoist and crane, and automotive.

Thread presence detection sensor is Go-NoGo for internal and external threads Eddy current probe and electronics module provides precise thread presence measurement for critical automated assembly and manufacturing applications

T

he ThreadChecker™ from Kaman Inc. is a new non-contact sensor range designed to check both internal and external thread presence for critical parts manufacture and automated assembly line applications.

Available exclusively in the UK from Ixthus Instrumentation, the range consists of a choice of IP67 rated eddy current probes and an electronics module with both output and visual indication for Go-NoGo distance, set between the probe and the thread.

Four internal probes measure threaded holes to 14 mm diameter and two external probes for threaded shafts to 10 mm diameter. Available to suit most metal materials, the robust probes operate at

temperatures up to 70º C and as Kaman’s rugged and reliable eddy current technology does not require a high level of part cleanliness, operation in hostile and dirty environments is guaranteed.

The CE compliant ThreadChecker range features both switched relay and analogue outputs which can be wired to a PLC programmed to alarm when no thread is detected. A teach function, using an integral pushbutton and a three-state LED is also available for manual set-up and operation. The electronics module can be panel or DIN rail mounted.

The range is part of Kaman’s GageProx™ family which uses a single-ended input and fixed-gain output technology that is ideal for set-it-and forget-it gauging applications in the metal forming industry for in-die parts inspection as well as automated assembly and test in automotive and white goods manufacture, and many other demanding thread presence measurement applications in the machine shop and clean room alike.

For more information on Ixthus non contact sensors, contact us: +44 (0)1327 353437, email sales@ixthus.co.uk or visit www.ixthus.co.uk

VariohmNews0903_G:Variohm 6 Page

12/03/2009

14:05

Page 4

Cubic Transportation Systems choose non-contact angular position sensors for long life and increased reliability

Custom positioning solution for the innovative ZephIR® wind speed measurement system

Transportation systems giant chooses hall effect rotary sensors for next generation ticketing

minimal engineering effort. This improves reliability and reduces down-time associated with preventative maintenance.

As the Vert-X can be delivered with a preprogrammed angular range between 10 and 360 degrees. Variiohm was able to supply the replacement sensor with exactly the same output characteristics as the original potentiometer version.

W

hen Cubic Transportation Systems Inc, the global designer and manufacturer of mass transport ticketing systems looked to reduce maintenance and increase reliability on its range of access control gates, engineers at its UK based product development centre worked with Variohm EuroSensor to use the Contelec Vert-X 13 series noncontact Hall Effect sensor to improve performance.

Access gates collect traveller’s electronic fares using high speed ticket encoding from magnetic strip or contactless smart cards to validate and allow entry and exit. Cubic’s Universal Gate range has been designed to adapt to the diverse requirements of ticketing and gate siting as an integral part of complete software, hardware and communications systems that have revolutionised mass transportation

ticketing. One of Cubic’s major customers is Transport for London whose ticketing system uses the technology to its full allowing the Capital’s travellers to use just one smart card for tube, over ground rail and bus services.

The Universal Gate has two paddles to provide dual opening for travellers. Each gate flap is independently driven via a motor gearbox with a fixed rotation of up to 180 degrees, controlled using a feedback voltage set between an upper and lower value from the directly coupled angular position sensor. High traveller throughput rates require rapid accelerations and fast settling times which place high demands on all the components used.

The two part Hall Effect and magnet design of the Swiss manufactured Vert-X 13 series sensor provides a non-contact solution with substantially improved life and superior performance with the added bonus of

World’s smallest stringpot sensor

Thanks to its small size of just 13 mm in diameter and 20 mm nominal length, the Vert-X was easily installed within the existing space available, and with its durable stainless steel housing and integral ball bearing system the new sensor was able to satisfy the environmental specifications required.

A further benefit was revealed by the true linear output and improved accuracy the new solution provided. Rather than a working tolerance of +/-10 mV to set up the potentiometer, Cubic engineers found they could achieve almost pin-point accuracy which considerably improved in-position stability and the superior linearity also enhanced the control system smoothness.

“The Vert-X solution was trialled during 2007 at a new rapid transit system project in Atlanta-Georgia and quickly proved successful” says Colin Peacock of Cubic’s Redhill - UK engineering department, “The reliability gains and improved life time of the non-contact solution has considerably reduced the Universal Gate maintenance burden and it is now the design choice for new and retrofitted access gates worldwide.”

Thumbprint sized ‘stringpot’ cable extension transducers (or draw wire sensor) suits space critical automotive and aerospace applications

T

he world’s smallest stringpot or draw-wire sensor, the Celesco M150, is available from Variohm EuroSensor, the European sensor and transducer specialist.

With its miniature conductive plastic potentiometer, robust IP50 rated aluminium housing and nylon coated stainless steel cable, the M150 can be installed in a volume of less than 20 mm x 20 mm x 10 mm and provides an essentially infinite linear position resolution over measurement range of 0 – 38 mm with a +/1% full scale accuracy.

Aimed at demanding space restricted applications such as throttle position feedback and vibration/displacement measurement in vehicle testing, the thumbprint sized unit is easily installed with two threaded mounting holes and supplied with 450 mm multi-conductor cable.

With a 10g vibration rating at 30 to 2000 Hz and a potentiometer life rating of 5 million cycles, the durable M150 is designed for a long life in the arduous conditions found in the automotive and aerospace industries.

H

eason Technology has developed a customised high precision positioning solution with ceramic motor technology for an innovative Wind Resource Measurement System used to determine optimal sites for offshore and onshore wind farms.

For more information on Variohm EuroSensor’s complete product range, contact us: +44 (0) 1327 351004 email sales@variohm.com or visit www.variohm.com

terms, ZephIR projects a conical infrared beam to illuminate particles in the atmosphere which are detected as backscattered light by an integral receiver.

Target particles along the beam produce a Doppler shift allowing the processed information to determine wind speed and direction in five pre-selected, highly accurate and repeatable distances up to 200 metres above the instrument. The technology is proving to offer a significant advantage over traditional wind measurement masts which involve the costly erection of large structures, require lengthy building permission timescales, and also elicit health and safety concerns.

Heason’s initial involvement in the project was with QinetiQ, a leading global research and development laboratory that began working on a commercially viable solution for wind measurement back in the early 2000’s using its extensive knowledge of LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging). The product is now field proven and licensed to Natural Power, a leading renewable energy solutions provider based in Scotland.

ZephIR, a laser anemometer, is an easily transportable ground-based instrument combining three sealed pods for laser optics, data collection/communication electronics and battery power. In simple

Heason’s brief was to design and deliver a robust single-axis sub-micron positioning assembly for the high speed focussing of the fibre-optic lens arrangement which in turn determines the application-critical height accuracy. The scope of supply covers a ring-type mechanical assembly

with a ceramic servo motor, a linear positioning stage with precision bearings, an optical linear encoder capable submicron measuring steps, and fibre-optic lens fixturing. Heason also supply the servo drive amplifier and motion controller with all interconnecting cable assemblies to carry power and signals through the three separately sealed GRP pods. The specification calls for high acceleration and high speed to maintain the ZephIR’s 20 millisecond measurement window whilst maintaining the positioning resolution requirement at the microns level over a travel range of 15 mm.

Nanomotion’s Duramotor

Megaflux series thin-ring torque motors

Large diameter-to-length form factor, through-hole construction and frameless rotor/stator design suit space-saving rotary positioning applications

A

range of brushless servo motors with a separate rotor and stator design, aimed at the smooth precise control and direct-drive of large inertia or high torque loads, is available from precision motion specialists Heason Technology Limited. The Megaflux thin-ring torque motor from USA manufacturer Emoteq Corporation has an inherently large diameter-tolength ratio - from 150 mm x 30 mm to 760 mm x 123 mm – and covers continuous stall torque from 3 Nm to over 2000 Nm.

The frameless construction and spacesaving form factor of the Megaflux allows the motor to be directly integrated on the driven shaft eliminating the resonance associated with flexible couplings; and with

no need for a gearbox, the high torque/low cog output is backlash-free ensuring precise control.

The large through-hole is especially useful for accommodating electrical wiring and other services such as slip ring assemblies and beam delivery systems whilst the form factor will suit OEMs requiring rotary positioning axes in space restricted applications. The Megaflux has been widely used in robotics, azimuth/elevation tracking devices, laser scanning systems, and machine tools.

The standard range covers eight frame sizes and forty models with motor characteristics fully specified in a 24 page catalogue available in hard copy or as a PDF from Heason Technology. In addition, customised windings are available to

optimise the applications’ torque and speed performance requirements. Hall sensors can also be built into the assembly, simplifying commutation.

For more information on Heason Technology’s motion control products, contact us: +44 (0)1403 755800, email sales@heason.com or visit www.heason.com

Down-hole strain gauging technology is getting smaller – and lower forces can be measured

Patented strain gauge technology enables space saving and well protected force measurement transducers to be directly embedded into custom designed structural components

A

patented technology that allows strain gauges to be mounted directly inside the customers’ components, saving space, removing extraneous errors and enabling design innovation, is available from Ixthus.

The durable down-hole strain gauge technique from leading USA strain measurement specialist Strainsert Inc, provides an elegant load measurement solution and recent developments now allow the technology to measure forces as low as 100 N and design miniaturisation also means they can be built into even smaller areas of just 3 mm diameter and within lengths of only 100 mm.

The technology is available through Ixthus in Strainsert’s standard load sensing product range that includes flat load cells, load sensing bolts and studs, tension links, and clevis pins but Ixthus are also able to provide OEMs and research organisations with these miniature strain gauges directly assembled into customised load bearing components and structures, either built to design or assembled into free-issued parts with full calibration and certification as required.

Unlike strain gauges that are attached on the outside of load bearing components, the downhole strain gauge, typically bonded into a small hole in the neutral axis of the load sensing path, is insensitive to offcentre loading, bending and extraneous load forces. Furthermore, the sealed and encapsulated miniature assembly is extremely well protected against harsh environments and materials can be selected to comply with application fatigue ratings and international safety standards. Compensation for pressure, temperature and safety redundancy can also be built into customised designs and the technology also lends itself to space restricted precision shear and torque measurement.

The typical force measurement range across standard and customised downhole strain gauges is between 100 N and 5 MN, with 0.1% linearity.

Ixthus Instrumentation provides complete technical and sales support for the entire range from Strainsert and are on hand to advise and assist customers with standard products and customised applications.

Ixthus have applied and adapted these innovative products over several years in all areas of industry and research for demanding applications in military, aerospace, marine and subsea, oil and gas, mining and quarry, hoist and crane, and automotive.

Thread presence detection sensor is Go-NoGo for internal and external threads Eddy current probe and electronics module provides precise thread presence measurement for critical automated assembly and manufacturing applications

T

he ThreadChecker™ from Kaman Inc. is a new non-contact sensor range designed to check both internal and external thread presence for critical parts manufacture and automated assembly line applications.

Available exclusively in the UK from Ixthus Instrumentation, the range consists of a choice of IP67 rated eddy current probes and an electronics module with both output and visual indication for Go-NoGo distance, set between the probe and the thread.

Four internal probes measure threaded holes to 14 mm diameter and two external probes for threaded shafts to 10 mm diameter. Available to suit most metal materials, the robust probes operate at

temperatures up to 70º C and as Kaman’s rugged and reliable eddy current technology does not require a high level of part cleanliness, operation in hostile and dirty environments is guaranteed.

The CE compliant ThreadChecker range features both switched relay and analogue outputs which can be wired to a PLC programmed to alarm when no thread is detected. A teach function, using an integral pushbutton and a three-state LED is also available for manual set-up and operation. The electronics module can be panel or DIN rail mounted.

The range is part of Kaman’s GageProx™ family which uses a single-ended input and fixed-gain output technology that is ideal for set-it-and forget-it gauging applications in the metal forming industry for in-die parts inspection as well as automated assembly and test in automotive and white goods manufacture, and many other demanding thread presence measurement applications in the machine shop and clean room alike.

For more information on Ixthus non contact sensors, contact us: +44 (0)1327 353437, email sales@ixthus.co.uk or visit www.ixthus.co.uk

VariohmNews0903_G:Variohm 6 Page

12/03/2009

14:00

Page 1

Variohm launch new low cost single/multiturn magnetic absolute rotary encoder with CANopen interface

V

Variohm Holdings Group

Compact and rugged magnetic technology includes 32-bit processor and offers excellent cost proposition

ariohm EuroSensor has released a new range of competitively priced high-resolution single/multiturn absolute rotary encoders from German position sensor specialists Wachendorff Automation GmbH.

The innovative WDGA series features an on-board 32-bit processor and full CANopen interface that handles the conversion of the encoder’s rugged magnetic position technology to output 4096 steps per rev (12-bit) at rates up to 1 Mbaud and with a multi-turn capacity of 131072 revs (17-bit). The WDGA series is ideal for space limited applications as a feedback device for positioning systems requiring long life and low maintenance -

and unit pricing is estimated at 30% below comparable technology.

The WDGA is built for maximum resilience and compactness with a nominal 36 mm diameter aluminium housing and stainlesssteel shaft with dual low-friction precision

bearing support. Protection rating is to IP67 protection with shaft sealing to IP65 (optional IP67) and operating temperature range is -40º C to +80º C. Mounting alternatives are via standard 36 mm diameter synchro/resolver flange mount, a 58 mm diameter clamping flange or 6 mm diameter blind hollow shaft. Maximum speed for the clamping flange version is 12000 rpm.

The extensive CANopen functionality includes a DS301 communication profile and DS-406 device profile. Position speed and acceleration output is included along with work area supervision, encoder cam and scaling capability plus comprehensive diagnostics.

Non-contact ‘touchless technology’ magnetic sensor helps steer versatile tractor

Robust two-part magnetic sensor provides highly reliable position feedback for innovative steering system on multi-use tractor

O

ne of the key features of the versatile Multidrive 6185 tractor is its Pentronic 5-function, allwheel steering system which includes highly reliable Novotechnik RFC4800 ‘touchless technology’ non-contacting angle sensors supplied by Variohm EuroSensor.

separate sensor which is encased in a robust IP69 rated sealed housing made from high-grade and temperature resistant plastic.

The 2 or 4 wheel steering system, with independent axle control and advanced features that prevent crop damage and soil compaction, means that the Gloucestershire built vehicle can carry and haul heavy loads as well as perform meticulous spraying and spreading tasks making the adaptable 6185 suitable for all areas of farming.

For Multidrive, a part of Kellands Agricultural Ltd, the reliability and durability of equipment used on the 6185 is paramount and they worked closely with Variohm to ensure that these critical position feedback components met their stringent standards. The tractor is used all over the world and sees wide variations in temperature and humidity and needs to perform faultlessly, regardless of the terrain and weather conditions.

The RFC4800 angle sensor provides a 12bit resolution (0.09 degrees) analogue output in a compact two-part design comprising a position marker with an encapsulated magnet that is attached to the customer’s shaft, and a physically

As a bearing system is not used, installation is straightforward and removes the need for mechanical couplings eliminating the additional problems of load applied to the shaft of the existing sensor.

Suited to space restricted envelopes the transmissive properties between magnet and sensor means that operation can be made through non-magnetic materials.

Furthermore, as the position output is absolute and the angular relationship between magnet and sensor is fixed, there is no need for elaborate calibration on setup or a need to reset the steering position when restoring power to the vehicle.

A choice of three models is available for supply voltages of 5 VDC, 12 VDC or 12/24 VDC. Optional output formats include 0 – 10 VDC, 0.5 – 4.5 VDC, a ratiometric voltage based upon a pre-calibrated percentage of the input, and 4 – 20 mA. The standard electrical angle is 360 degrees but optional 30 to 360 degree specials are available as redundant output versions and IP67 rated housings.

The touchless non-contacting technology used in the RFC4800 series offers an effectively unlimited life for the mechanical parts and the 50000 hour MTBF quoted figure for the electronics will suit ultra long life applications. Equally impressive are the agricultural vehicle standard specifications for shock and vibration.

For more information on Variohm EuroSensor’s complete product range, contact us: +44 (0) 1327 351004, email sales@variohm.com or visit www.variohm.com

< Linear Sensors

< Rotary Sensors

< Load Sensors

< Force Sensors

< Temperature Sensors

< Pressure Sensors

Tel: +44(0)1327 351004 Fax: +44(0)1327 353564

< Cable Extension Transducers

< Inclinometers

< Weighing Controllers

< Vibration Sensors

< Pressure Switches

< Displays and interfaces

Email: sales@variohm.com Web: www.variohm.com

Variohm-EuroSensor Ltd

Williams’ Barns, Tiffield Road, Towcester, Northants. NN12 6HP

Zero Backlash Gears and Actuators

Inductive - Eddy Current Capacitance

Servo Motors and Drives Ceramic Servo Motors and Drives

Ultrasonic

Linear and Rotary Stages

Laser Long Range Laser

Precision Encoders

Colour

Non Indu Cont a ctiv e C ct Po a pac sitio The itive n Tow Stable Ultr Meas ce s s, T t i e u f aso fi r, N T: + orth eld Ro nic reme ww 44 (0) ad, ant w.ix 132 L aser nt sN 7 thu s.c 3510 N12 04 o.u k F 6 HP sal : + 4 es@ 4 (0 var ) 13 27 ioh m.c 353 564 om

Programmable Motion Controllers Heason Technology is one of the leading suppliers of Precision Motion Control Equipment specialising in ‘Experience Systems Integration’ and is now a major player in many diverse markets including Aerospace & Defence, Space, Printing, Semiconductor & Fibre-Optic Manufacturing Equipment, Simulation and Robotics.

Unit 6 Lawson Hunt Industrial Park Guildford Road Broadbridge Heath West Sussex RH12 3JR Tel: +44 (0)1403 755800 Fax: +44 (0)1403 755810 Email: sales@heason.com

www.variohmholdings.com

www.heason.com

Feedback Sensor & Motion

Welcome to this first edition of

Sensor & Motion Feedback We last published a company newsletter back in 1998 under the name “Innovations”. That publication was the third in a series of three which spanned a period of two to three years and it covered some of the applications on which Variohm Components had supplied sensors or other expertise. We ceased publication because the business was growing so quickly that we didn’t have time to put in the effort to keep it going.

Since 1998 we have changed and grown quite considerably. Since our inception in 1974 Variohm Components have been involved in supplying position measurement or feedback sensors and over the years we have enlarged the range to include loadcells, force sensing clevis pins and force sensing bolts.

The first major change which took place was the acquisition in 2002 of “Eurosensor” which was a well established supplier of pressure sensors, inclinometers and thermistors. This acquisition necessitated a name change and on 1st May 2002 we began trading as Variohm EuroSensor.

In 2003 we felt that our product portfolio was sufficiently large to allow us to start exporting in a serious way, so that year we established B + L Industrial Measurements in Heidelberg, Germany. This company manufacture weighing controllers as well as selling our transducers into the German market.

The year 2003 was a big one for us, as it was in 2003 that we also acquired Ixthus Instrumentation who specialize in selling noncontacting position sensors.

Just under two years ago we launched Heason Technology Limited from a base down in Horsham. Heason specialize in supplying precision motion control components and systems. Their range consists of a wide variety of motor, in various configurations and sizes together with a huge range of controllers. They also have a systems building capability so that you can purchase a complete, bespoke motion control setup from them.

You might question why I am bothering with all this “ancient history”.

Well it’s not just some old guy reminiscing in order to emphasize that Variohm Holdings as the group is now called have the expertise to specify and select the best sensors for any given application, to provide the motive systems for the job and even to build and commission a complete system for you.

So whether your particular job utilizes hydraulic, pneumatic or electrical control you should find the applications which we have selected for publication to be of interest. We hope to issue further editions of Sensor and Motion Feedback and to include items about our staff which we hope will allow you to put faces to some of the names that you are dealing with.

One final thought – since we include the word Feedback in our title we would like to hear from you, so if you have used our equipment on an unusual application or feel that you have something worth inclusion, please write or email, we will always be glad to hear from you.

Roy Moffatt Managing Director

Latest News from the Group

Variohm are pleased to announce they have recently strengthened their range of temperature measurement solutions. They have purchased the business of Thermisitor Sales Ltd, and are now the exclusive distributor for the Betatherm range.

Unique spherical rolling joint from Heason Technology offering full three degrees of rotation preloaded to achieve exceptionally smooth motion with extremely low frictional resistance and zero clearance.

Ixthus appointed UK distributors for Philtec fibre optic displacement sensor range.

VariohmNews0903_G:Variohm 6 Page

12/03/2009

14:00

Page 1

Variohm launch new low cost single/multiturn magnetic absolute rotary encoder with CANopen interface

V

Variohm Holdings Group

Compact and rugged magnetic technology includes 32-bit processor and offers excellent cost proposition

ariohm EuroSensor has released a new range of competitively priced high-resolution single/multiturn absolute rotary encoders from German position sensor specialists Wachendorff Automation GmbH.

The innovative WDGA series features an on-board 32-bit processor and full CANopen interface that handles the conversion of the encoder’s rugged magnetic position technology to output 4096 steps per rev (12-bit) at rates up to 1 Mbaud and with a multi-turn capacity of 131072 revs (17-bit). The WDGA series is ideal for space limited applications as a feedback device for positioning systems requiring long life and low maintenance -

and unit pricing is estimated at 30% below comparable technology.

The WDGA is built for maximum resilience and compactness with a nominal 36 mm diameter aluminium housing and stainlesssteel shaft with dual low-friction precision

bearing support. Protection rating is to IP67 protection with shaft sealing to IP65 (optional IP67) and operating temperature range is -40º C to +80º C. Mounting alternatives are via standard 36 mm diameter synchro/resolver flange mount, a 58 mm diameter clamping flange or 6 mm diameter blind hollow shaft. Maximum speed for the clamping flange version is 12000 rpm.

The extensive CANopen functionality includes a DS301 communication profile and DS-406 device profile. Position speed and acceleration output is included along with work area supervision, encoder cam and scaling capability plus comprehensive diagnostics.

Non-contact ‘touchless technology’ magnetic sensor helps steer versatile tractor

Robust two-part magnetic sensor provides highly reliable position feedback for innovative steering system on multi-use tractor

O

ne of the key features of the versatile Multidrive 6185 tractor is its Pentronic 5-function, allwheel steering system which includes highly reliable Novotechnik RFC4800 ‘touchless technology’ non-contacting angle sensors supplied by Variohm EuroSensor.

separate sensor which is encased in a robust IP69 rated sealed housing made from high-grade and temperature resistant plastic.

The 2 or 4 wheel steering system, with independent axle control and advanced features that prevent crop damage and soil compaction, means that the Gloucestershire built vehicle can carry and haul heavy loads as well as perform meticulous spraying and spreading tasks making the adaptable 6185 suitable for all areas of farming.

For Multidrive, a part of Kellands Agricultural Ltd, the reliability and durability of equipment used on the 6185 is paramount and they worked closely with Variohm to ensure that these critical position feedback components met their stringent standards. The tractor is used all over the world and sees wide variations in temperature and humidity and needs to perform faultlessly, regardless of the terrain and weather conditions.

The RFC4800 angle sensor provides a 12bit resolution (0.09 degrees) analogue output in a compact two-part design comprising a position marker with an encapsulated magnet that is attached to the customer’s shaft, and a physically

As a bearing system is not used, installation is straightforward and removes the need for mechanical couplings eliminating the additional problems of load applied to the shaft of the existing sensor.

Suited to space restricted envelopes the transmissive properties between magnet and sensor means that operation can be made through non-magnetic materials.

Furthermore, as the position output is absolute and the angular relationship between magnet and sensor is fixed, there is no need for elaborate calibration on setup or a need to reset the steering position when restoring power to the vehicle.

A choice of three models is available for supply voltages of 5 VDC, 12 VDC or 12/24 VDC. Optional output formats include 0 – 10 VDC, 0.5 – 4.5 VDC, a ratiometric voltage based upon a pre-calibrated percentage of the input, and 4 – 20 mA. The standard electrical angle is 360 degrees but optional 30 to 360 degree specials are available as redundant output versions and IP67 rated housings.

The touchless non-contacting technology used in the RFC4800 series offers an effectively unlimited life for the mechanical parts and the 50000 hour MTBF quoted figure for the electronics will suit ultra long life applications. Equally impressive are the agricultural vehicle standard specifications for shock and vibration.

For more information on Variohm EuroSensor’s complete product range, contact us: +44 (0) 1327 351004, email sales@variohm.com or visit www.variohm.com

< Linear Sensors

< Rotary Sensors

< Load Sensors

< Force Sensors

< Temperature Sensors

< Pressure Sensors

Tel: +44(0)1327 351004 Fax: +44(0)1327 353564

< Cable Extension Transducers

< Inclinometers

< Weighing Controllers

< Vibration Sensors

< Pressure Switches

< Displays and interfaces

Email: sales@variohm.com Web: www.variohm.com

Variohm-EuroSensor Ltd

Williams’ Barns, Tiffield Road, Towcester, Northants. NN12 6HP

Zero Backlash Gears and Actuators

Inductive - Eddy Current Capacitance

Servo Motors and Drives Ceramic Servo Motors and Drives

Ultrasonic

Linear and Rotary Stages

Laser Long Range Laser

Precision Encoders

Colour

Non Indu Cont a ctiv e C ct Po a pac sitio The itive n Tow Stable Ultr Meas ce s s, T t i e u f aso fi r, N T: + orth eld Ro nic reme ww 44 (0) ad, ant w.ix 132 L aser nt sN 7 thu s.c 3510 N12 04 o.u k F 6 HP sal : + 4 es@ 4 (0 var ) 13 27 ioh m.c 353 564 om

Programmable Motion Controllers Heason Technology is one of the leading suppliers of Precision Motion Control Equipment specialising in ‘Experience Systems Integration’ and is now a major player in many diverse markets including Aerospace & Defence, Space, Printing, Semiconductor & Fibre-Optic Manufacturing Equipment, Simulation and Robotics.

Unit 6 Lawson Hunt Industrial Park Guildford Road Broadbridge Heath West Sussex RH12 3JR Tel: +44 (0)1403 755800 Fax: +44 (0)1403 755810 Email: sales@heason.com

www.variohmholdings.com

www.heason.com

Feedback Sensor & Motion

Welcome to this first edition of

Sensor & Motion Feedback We last published a company newsletter back in 1998 under the name “Innovations”. That publication was the third in a series of three which spanned a period of two to three years and it covered some of the applications on which Variohm Components had supplied sensors or other expertise. We ceased publication because the business was growing so quickly that we didn’t have time to put in the effort to keep it going.

Since 1998 we have changed and grown quite considerably. Since our inception in 1974 Variohm Components have been involved in supplying position measurement or feedback sensors and over the years we have enlarged the range to include loadcells, force sensing clevis pins and force sensing bolts.

The first major change which took place was the acquisition in 2002 of “Eurosensor” which was a well established supplier of pressure sensors, inclinometers and thermistors. This acquisition necessitated a name change and on 1st May 2002 we began trading as Variohm EuroSensor.

In 2003 we felt that our product portfolio was sufficiently large to allow us to start exporting in a serious way, so that year we established B + L Industrial Measurements in Heidelberg, Germany. This company manufacture weighing controllers as well as selling our transducers into the German market.

The year 2003 was a big one for us, as it was in 2003 that we also acquired Ixthus Instrumentation who specialize in selling noncontacting position sensors.

Just under two years ago we launched Heason Technology Limited from a base down in Horsham. Heason specialize in supplying precision motion control components and systems. Their range consists of a wide variety of motor, in various configurations and sizes together with a huge range of controllers. They also have a systems building capability so that you can purchase a complete, bespoke motion control setup from them.

You might question why I am bothering with all this “ancient history”.

Well it’s not just some old guy reminiscing in order to emphasize that Variohm Holdings as the group is now called have the expertise to specify and select the best sensors for any given application, to provide the motive systems for the job and even to build and commission a complete system for you.

So whether your particular job utilizes hydraulic, pneumatic or electrical control you should find the applications which we have selected for publication to be of interest. We hope to issue further editions of Sensor and Motion Feedback and to include items about our staff which we hope will allow you to put faces to some of the names that you are dealing with.

One final thought – since we include the word Feedback in our title we would like to hear from you, so if you have used our equipment on an unusual application or feel that you have something worth inclusion, please write or email, we will always be glad to hear from you.

Roy Moffatt Managing Director

Latest News from the Group

Variohm are pleased to announce they have recently strengthened their range of temperature measurement solutions. They have purchased the business of Thermisitor Sales Ltd, and are now the exclusive distributor for the Betatherm range.

Unique spherical rolling joint from Heason Technology offering full three degrees of rotation preloaded to achieve exceptionally smooth motion with extremely low frictional resistance and zero clearance.

Ixthus appointed UK distributors for Philtec fibre optic displacement sensor range.