High-precision miniature guideway with integral distance measuring system for tight spaces

For designers who have to fit high-precision linear technology with integral distance measurement in very small spaces, SCHNEEBERGER now offers the new MINISCALE PLUS optical incremental distance measuring system. Based on the MINIRAIL linear guideway system, the measuring system combines guidance and measurement functionality in a highly integrated design. The extremely compact miniature package also significantly simplifies installation.

Measuring just 9.2 x 17 x 16.1 mm, nearly twelve of the smallest members of the MINISCALE PLUS family can fit in a single matchbox. This unbeatably small size results from the integration of the measuring sensor in the carriage. This eliminates the need for additional installation space as well as the cost of a separate distance measuring system. The MINISCALE PLUS has the measuring scale laser-marked on the guide rail and the optical sensor integrated into the carriage. A flexible circuit board connects the sensor to the interface module that handles signal processing. With the development of the MINISCALE PLUS, Schneeberger meets the customer requirement for even higher resolution and the desire to be able to choose between analogue and digital interface modules.

Structure and operation

The high precision measuring scale forms part of the surface of the hardened rail and has a scale increment of 100 µm. The sensor illuminates the measuring scale and captures the optical signals, which are conditioned by analogue or digital electronics in the interface module for subsequent processing. Measurement takes place directly on the guideway, significantly reducing the risk of alignment errors. SCHNEEBERGER guarantees consistent accuracy, thanks in part to the vibration and shock immunity of the MINISCALE PLUS. Locating the measuring scale directly on the rail reduces the need for analysis of thermal expansion and complex compensation routines in the related controller. Like the MINIRAIL miniature guideway, the MINISCALE PLUS works very reliably over an extended service life.

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