Optical Encoder targets micro-manufacturing systems.

Press Release Summary:




Available in linear and rotary versions, TONiC works at speeds to 10 m/s and temperatures up to 70°C while providing resolution to 5 nm. High signal-to-noise ratio combined with dynamic signal processing ensure sub-divisional-error of less than ±30 nm. In addition to reading linear and rotary scales, TONiC reads gold scale featuring auto-phase IN-TRAC(TM) optical reference mark, which provides bi-directionally repeatable index over entire speed and temperature range.



Original Press Release:



New TONiC(TM) Super-Compact Optical Encoder Offers Exceptional Performance and Versatility with Breakthrough Simplicity



Available in linear and rotary versions, TONiC combines simple installation with proven reliability, advanced optical engineering, exceptional speed and accuracy.

December 2008 - Renishaw's new TONiC super-compact, optical encoder is an ideal solution for a broad range of motion control applications in micro-manufacturing systems for semiconductors, laboratory and medical work. TONiC facilitates system design with a tiny hardware footprint, along with exceptional signal purity and stability, low cost of ownership, and fast, easy set-up.

TONiC packs advanced optics and electronics in a compact readhead (35 mm x 13.5 mm x 10 mm L-W-H) for great design/application flexibility and installation. Available in both linear and rotary versions, TONiC supports many applications from standard motion control to ultra-high precision stages, working at speeds to a maximum of 10 m/s (3.24 m/s @ 0.1 µm resolution) and temperatures up to 70°C, while providing fine resolution to 5 nm.

Innovative optics with very high 'signal to noise' ratio, combined with dynamic signal processing, ensure ultra-low sub-divisional-error (SDE <±30 nm) and jitter. TONiC delivers a level of performance previously available only from more delicate fine-pitch encoder systems. Two integral readhead LEDs give quick and easy set-up and diagnostics, while simple construction using an ASIC and integrated sensor technology brings "fit and forget" reliability.

For ultimate flexibility, TONiC reads a variety of linear and rotary scale types including a new version of Renishaw's gold scale featuring the auto-phase IN-TRAC(TM) optical reference mark. IN-TRAC provides a bi-directionally repeatable index over the entire speed and temperature range without increasing overall system width. Integral dual limits are also available enabling users to select end of travel position. With auto-calibration, integral diagnostic LEDs and IN-TRAC optical reference mark, TONiC can be set-up and running with maximum performance and minimum work in a matter of seconds.

TONiC is the latest in a proven range of high-speed, non-contact optical encoders from Renishaw. As with all Renishaw products, TONiC encoders are fully supported by a worldwide network offering responsive global service and application advice.

For more information on the new TONiC linear and rotary encoders, 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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