Optical encoder incorporated into guides

The Miniscale optical encoder integrated into Schneeberger's miniature recirculating linear motion guides has a resolution of 1um with a repeatability of +/-2um.

Schneeberger's miniature recirculating linear motion guides are now available with a directly integrated optical encoder to combine load carrying, precision alignment and position feedback functions in one convenient package.

The Miniscale system is available in the UK from Basingstoke based LG Motion.

The upper surface of the Miniscale guideway includes a durable, micro-etched scale which is read and interpolated by a very small reading head mounted on the moving carriage.

Cabling is completed with a flexible printed circuit board with length to match the travel range.

With a direct TTL-level quadrature output, the Miniscale's resolution is 1um with a repeatability of +/-2um.

Overall accuracy is with +/-3um up to 30mm of travel and +/-10um up to 300mm travel.

The Miniscale is available in four standard rail widths of 7, 9, 12 and 15mm with matching carriages for dynamic load capacity to 3680N.

For dynamic loads up to 4750N and improved offset load capability, four wide rails with increased bearing distribution are available in widths of 14, 18, 24 and 42mm.

Maximum rail lengths are 760 to 960mm with longer versions available upon request.

Schneeberger has developed the Miniscale bearing system to meet the increased acceleration and high speed performance required by linear motor drives.

The low-friction, two-row, miniature recirculating ball and rail motion guide technology ensures quiet running with excellent smoothness that is well suited to scanning or high-speed incremental moves.

The integral measuring system, optimally placed closer to the load, ensures the best precision for backlash-free positioning systems, removing the accumulated "lost motion" errors that are apparent in rotary encoder systems.

Contoured front plates ensure that rails are wiped clean during use and provision for in-situ lubrication is included.

Special environment, clean room and vacuum-compatible versions are also available.

The system offers reduced engineering and assembly times, as well as simplified parts ordering and inventory management.

It is suited to applications in electronics and semiconductor manufacturing, biotechnology and medical equipment, MEMS and metrology systems.

Back to top