Position Tracking System offers 0.8 mm resolution.
Press Release Summary:
Able to be horizontally or vertically curved, WCS2A/WCS3A PosiTrack(TM) consists of U-shaped read head, fiber-laminate or stainless steel code rail and support hardware, as well as network and control interfaces. Internal microprocessor translates 48 sender/receiver LED array status into 19-bit code, providing fraction-of-a-millimeter positional resolution over travel distances to 1,070 ft. Product also features internal compensation for code rail irregularities.
Original Press Release:
New Precision Positioning System from Pepperl+Fuchs Provides Fraction-of-a-Millimeter Position Feedback
TWINSBURG, OH - Pepperl+Fuchs introduces the WCS2A/WCS3A PosiTrack(TM) Position Tracking System. The system brings fraction-of-a-millimeter position feedback to a number of industrial and commercial applications such as overhead monorails, gantry cranes, warehouse automation, galvanizing processes, conveyors, theater lighting and elevators, among others.
PosiTrack consists of three basic components; a U-shaped read head, code rail and support hardware, and network and control interfaces. The read head optically scans a uniquely coded rail to determine a carrier mechanism's position. An internal microprocessor translates a 48 sender/receiver LED array status into a 19-bit code, providing 0.8 mm positional resolution over travel distances to 1,070 feet. Read heads require no calibration, and sophisticated intelligence provides highly reliable data in challenging conditions. Ultra-forgiving rail/read head alignment tolerances and internal compensation for code rail irregularities maximize system uptime. Detailed system diagnostic codes are continuously provided, so a controller is never more than a few milliseconds away from verifying the system's health.
The code rail is available in either fiber-laminate or stainless steel materials to satisfy various application conditions, and provides a unique positional code every 0.8 mm of read head travel. Both are sold in customer-specified lengths with continuous strips from 1 to 1,070 feet possible. In addition to providing positional feedback, short code rail lengths can be used for carrier/pallet identification. A single reader can identify and position a carrier, saving the expense of an extra ID system. All rail types can be horizontally curved with no affect on the read head's accuracy. Fiber-laminate rails can also be flexed for vertical bends.
If the PosiTrack read head's integral RS-485 or SSI outputs don't suit ones interface needs, control interfaces are available that convert the RS-485 signals to most standard network protocols including DeviceNet, PROFIBUS DP, CANopen and InterBus. In addition, parallel and SSI interface "booster" controllers are available for extra-long cable runs. Bus-compatible interfaces can control up to four read heads.
Pepperl+Fuchs is a world leader in the design, manufacture and application of high quality factory and process automation products and services. Pepperl+Fuchs pioneered the development of proximity sensors 45 years ago, and has set the standard for innovation and quality ever since.
For more information contact: Pepperl+Fuchs, 1600 Enterprise Parkway, Twinsburg, OH 44087; (330) 486-0001; fax: (330) 405-4710; sales@us.pepperl-fuchs.com; am.pepperl-fuchs.com .
