Pepperl & Fuchs has launched its first linear encoder. The position encoding system consists of a rail and a reader, and boasts it can detect a position to 0.8mm (1/32in). Maximum length of the system is 325m (1066ft). The system operates up to travel speeds of 12 m/s (39 f/s). It can also work in bends – minimum 4m (13ft) radius vertical bends and 0.5m (20in) radius horizontal bends. The reader photoelectrically scans the rail without touching it. The system can work with CANopen, Profibus-DP, DeviceNet, Interbus-S, or parallel interfaces.
