Absolute Optical Encoders deliver 27-bit resolution at 36,000 rpm.

Press Release Summary:




Providing true absolute positioning in linear/rotary models, RESOLUTE(TM) has single-track optical scale that eliminates misalignment and allows wide setup tolerances. Resolution of 1 nm at up to 100 m/s accommodates linear and angle encoding applications, and absolute position is acquired immediately upon switch-on and without battery backup. Product reads fine-pitch, 30 µm scale, resulting in noise levels with jitter less than 10 nm RMS. Sub-divisional error is ±40 nm.



Original Press Release:



Line of Absolute Optical Encoders World's First with 27-Bit Resolution at 36,000 rpm, 1 Nanometer at 100 m/s



Fine-pitch system delivers true absolute positioning in linear or rotary models. Unique single-track scale eliminates de-phasing from misalignment, allows wider setup tolerances.

Renishaw's RESOLUTE(TM) optical encoder system is the world's first true absolute encoder capable of 27 bit resolution at 36,000 rpm. The fine-pitch system offers excellent dirt immunity, while delivering market-leading resolution of just 1 nanometer at up to 100 m/s, for both linear and angle encoding applications.

Using a unique single-track optical scale, RESOLUTE acquires absolute position immediately upon switch-on - without battery back-up - simplifying machine design by completely eliminating the need for reference returns. The system's ruggedness, ultra-high speed capability and exceptional resolution make it ideal for high-performance lathes, as well as slower-moving axes requiring the highest levels of precision and motion control integrity.

The RESOLUTE absolute encoder uses sophisticated new optics to read a fine-pitch, 30-µm scale, resulting in exceptionally low noise levels (jitter <10 nm RMS) for outstanding positional stability. The enhanced detection technology intrinsically provides a very low sub-divisional error (SDE) of ±40 nm. The result is better surface finish of machined parts from CNC machine tools, better scanning and velocity control, and rock-solid servo stiffness on linear motors or rotary direct-drives when holding position.

RESOLUTE unique single-track combines both the absolute position and embedded phase information into a single code, eliminating the de-phasing problems that can occur with dual-track scales when small amounts of angular misalignment are introduced. The single-track design allows far wider set-up tolerances for quick and easy installation and superior long-term reliability, even if the motion axes settle or move over time. An integral set-up LED on the readhead further simplifies installation and diagnostics.

RESOLUTE's IP64 sealed readhead permits wipe-clean recovery for outstanding reliability. Precision optics and extensive redundancy in the scale code give excellent immunity to dirt. A built-in, separate and independent position checking algorithm ensures safety by actively checking every reading so any potential problem is flagged long before it reaches the controller. The readhead also incorporates a temperature sensor to measure heat build-up, giving extra system protection by signaling an alarm condition if head temperature rises above +80°C. This alarm is in addition to the signal monitoring, position checking and speed monitoring that are carried out constantly inside the readhead.

A comprehensive range of scale options permits great design flexibility with linear models of the RESOLUTE system. RELA Invar spars offer "zero" expansion and ±1 µm accuracy on lengths up to 1 m. For high performance on long axes and significantly more robustness than glass scales, RSLA stainless steel spars have a total accuracy of ±4 µm over 5 m. FASTRACK(TM) and RTLA tape scale provide the quickest and easiest installation, while offering ±5 µm/m accuracy.

For angle encoder applications, Renishaw's RESA rings are bolt-hole compatible with its SiGNUM(TM) RESM rings and offered in standard diameters from 52 mm to 550 mm, with larger size options available. RESA rings feature large through-holes for easy design-in. A patented taper mount allows quick, easy and precise adjustment of eccentricity, while minimizing shaft preparation costs.

The RESOLUTE absolute encoder uses purely serial communication resulting in exceptional noise immunity. It is available with a variety of protocols to enable easy connection to a wide range of industry-standard controllers, a list of which is available from Renishaw.

RESOLUTE is backed by a global sales and support network, and complies with WEEE and RoHS environmental standards.

For more information on the RESOLUTE optical encoder, contact Howard Salt, Business Manager, Encoder systems, Renishaw, Inc., 5277 Trillium Boulevard, Hoffman Estates, IL 60192. Phone 847-286-9953; fax 847-286-9974. Email: howard.salt@renishaw.com

For a detailed look at other productivity enhancements for metrology, linear and rotary position feedback, and machine tool calibration, visit Renishaw's web site at: http://www.renishaw.com/encoders

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