Compact Mercury II encoder sensor design and cut-to-length Marker Tape provide printer manufacturer the flexibility to outfit various axis lengths with minimal number of stocked components.
The Challenge
The OEM customer needed a flexible and cost effective encoder solution for a line of high quality large format printers. The customer had been having quality issues with inconsistent performance from a competitor’s glass scales, and was looking for a more convenient metal tape scale solution for the required travels up to 4500mm.
The Solution
MicroE paired a standard configuration compact Mercury II series digital output sensor with 1µm resolution along with Marker Tape featuring an index every 50mm. The multi-index Marker Tape can be supplied in dispenser of lengths up to 30 meters long (or cut to a specific length), making it ideal for OEMs that produce axes of various lengths.
The Benefit
The selected Mercury II sensor is a standard product, minimizing cost and lead time. The application calls for various long lengths of tape scale, and the ability to purchase up to 30 meters of tape on a reel allows the customer to stock just one scale part number. With indexes every 50mm, the customer can cut scales to length and have the index placed where needed.
Specifications
| Sensor Dimensions | 38.5 x 13.5 x 11mm |
| Interface | Digital A-quad-B |
| Grating Period | 20µm |
| System Resolution | 1µm (5µm to 1.2nm available with MII5000) |
| Maximum Speed | 10 m/sec |
| Sensor Weight | 6g |
| Travel Required | Various, to 4500mm |
