A growing application for the rotary encoder is the need to translate operator input into feedback for a control system. Autonomous vehicles require a feedback device to verify steering position. Load management systems for cranes and lifting trucks require boom position to limit the operator from tipping the machine.

Whether it be an arm position on a destructive mine sweeper, a grabbing claw on a timber harvester, or auto positioning for an autonomous truck (below), operator position feedback enables safety and efficiency by removing the mechanical complexity of a shafted coupling.

Joral non-contact rotary encoders can be integrated directly into motor assemblies. Whether built directly into the motor or coupled with a mount, removing physical shaft contact eliminates the transfer of vibration and shock into the sensor. Last, in the event of bearing failure, the non-contact encoder will be isolated from shaft damage. Click to learn more!

Linear measurement is a common application for encoders. Rotary encoders are used to measure linear travel in conveyors, autonomous vehicles, and cable reels.

Typically a measure wheel is applied to couple the rotary encoder to the traveling conveyor. Sometimes the encoder shaft is used to load the encoder wheel on the conveyor, leading to bearing wear and the encoder’s destruction.

For vehicles and cable reels an encoder is mechanically coupled to a rotating item that extends and retracts (a reel wire), or travels on a linear surface (the road). Complicated assemblies require access to the application’s shaft coupling for service.

It is possible to remove shaft load and complicated couplings by eliminating the need for a shaft entirely with the ProxEncoder® non-contact rotary encoder.

Common in industrial filling and mobile hydraulic boom control, platform monitoring via rotary encoder provides precise feedback. However, restricted access and limited installation tolerances create a headache for systems that utilize sensitive electronics in extreme environments.

Moisture, vibration, and machine wear lead to machine down time. Creating an installation that limits physically coupled parts, increases time between maintenance, and reduces labor requirements during scheduled service.

Figure right demonstrates a non-contact encoder coupled to a turning platform for bottle wash-down.