Positioning For Success in Robotics & Automation

Key Points:

• Encoders are fundamental to robotics motion control as they provide accurate feedback about angle, position, and speed.
• Optical encoders, both incremental and absolute, are commonly used in robotics.
• Encoders for robotics need to be small, high-functioning, and intentionally engineered for error-free assembly and faster installation.
• Quantum Devices manufactures and supplies industry-leading high-resolution encoders for the robotics industry.
• Quantum Devices’ encoders have features like low profile, high resolutions, easy lock-n-twist assembly, high noise immunity, and multiple mounting options.
• Quantum Devices offers optical encoder engineering support and application-specific products.

Encoders are essential for robotics motion control as they provide accurate feedback about angle, position, and speed. The robotics industry has experienced growth in the past decade due to the increasing adoption of automation across various industries. Robotics and automation are often used to perform dangerous or repetitive tasks that humans are unable to handle. However, the demanding engineering requirements in these industries necessitate the use of high-quality encoders suitable for different applications.

Optical encoders are the most commonly used encoders in robotics. They can record in incremental or absolute measurements. Incremental encoders require a reference position to establish a starting point for measurement, while absolute encoders start measuring from the moment they are turned on. However, selecting the right encoder for a robotics application is more complex than choosing between incremental and absolute types.

Encoders used in robotics need to have a small footprint and high functionality. As robotics and automation trend towards miniaturization, encoders also need to be engineered for error-free assembly and faster installation in complex machines. The choice of encoder configuration depends on the range of motion, motor, and steering control used in the robotics system. Servo motors and Brushless DC motors are both commonly used, and each motor is combined with an encoder to record angle, position, speed, and linear distance.

Quantum Devices is a manufacturer and supplier of high-resolution encoders for the robotics industry. Their optical rotary encoders use a patented interlaced photodiode array to ensure precision and accuracy. Some notable features of Quantum Devices’ encoders include low profile, high resolutions up to 8192 lines per revolution, easy lock-n-twist assembly, high noise immunity, and multiple mounting options. Quantum Devices also offers optical encoder engineering support and application-specific products.

Overall, choosing the right encoder for robotics and automation applications is crucial for ensuring accurate and reliable motion control. Optical encoders, such as those provided by Quantum Devices, can meet the demanding requirements of the robotics industry and facilitate precise robot positioning.