US sensors angle into UK market

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Jul 15, 2003

New to the UK market are the US-manufactured Schaevitz AccuStar, AngleStar and AccuSwitch angle sensors.

New to the UK market are the US-manufactured Schaevitz AccuStar, AngleStar and AccuSwitch angle sensors.

The range is available ex-stock from sole UK distributor, Sherborne Schaevitz of Basingstoke's "transducer valley".

Mike Baker MD, said: "Given the range's proven capabilities we anticipate it will attract a wide range of manufacturers of companion technologies ranging from cranes to tilting sea platforms.

For engineers looking for precision tilt measurement, versatility and long life, the AccuStar range is a God-send.

These are a highly affordable piece of kit and we can satisfy orders within days which makes them even more attractive".

Jerry Knight is Senior Design and Applications Engineer: "The range of applications for these inclinometers is enormous and our US suppliers report their use in many diverse sectors, from automotive, to mining and health and exercise".

The AccuStar I is the world's sensor of choice in wheel alignment systems.

Today's cars are high performance machines, with accurate wheel alignment crucial to optimising that performance, reducing noise levels and prolonging tyre life.

Test equipment is operating in the demanding environment of mechanics' garages where electromechanical devices often receive punishing treatment.

The AccuStar I is a rugged, single-axis clinometer which is easily integrated with existing circuitry, providing provides range, linearity and durability at an affordable price.

Few sensors are able to withstand the extreme environment of prolonged vibration and shock - but the AccuStar I clinometer is proven in this application.

The only moving part in the device is the fluid sensor element, so there is nothing to break or lose alignment.

There are no bearings to wear down or give false indications.

Being enclosed in a metal box, or "potted", the sensor is also made extremely rugged.

It can be linked to an angle readout display for mounting in the operator's cab.

As exercise equipment becomes more sophisticated, angle measurement becomes more essential, such as the angle of treadmill incline.

Medical stress tests, for example, are a key driver of the market and tests have to be conducted under controlled, and repeatable conditions.

The AccuStar I and II mounted on the moving mechanism and not at the pivot point can replace many mechanical linkages, the main benefit being that because AccuStar sensors have no moving parts, their lifetime is long.

The truck gear box environment is harsh, reaching temperatures of up to 150C.

Measuring fluid levels in these conditions requires a sensor capable of withstanding such heat, combined with shock and vibration.

The AccuStar fluid level sensor delivers an analogue signal of fluid levels over time, aiding the scheduling of preventative maintenance.

It can also replace the dipstick for discreet measurements.

The AccuStar range of products is now available alongside the Schaevitz precision inclinometers, accelerometers and force transducers.