Super-Flat Non-Contacting Rotary Sensor
13/01/2014 Variohm EuroSensor Ltd
As the exclusive UK distributor for Novotechnik, the German sensor and sensor systems specialist, Variohm EuroSensor presents the following product release on the new RFD series super-flat non-contacting Hall Effect rotary sensor.When it comes to position and angular measurements, today's manufacturers often choose magnetic technologies. Hall Effect-based sensors (see description below), for instance, yield absolute measurements which are reliable even under tough environmental conditions. Their relatively low cost in comparison with other measurement technologies makes them suitable for countless applications in machine engineering and plant design as well as for mobile applications. In light of recent developments, this trend is expected to continue.
Novotechnik, a company that specializes in sensor technologies, has responded to the increasing demand for simple, flat, and affordable rotary sensors with the development of its new RFD component series (Figure 1). These non-contacting Hall Effect-based components are mechanically and electrically compatible with their predecessor, the RFA, yet distinctly more economically priced - in the absence of technological sacrifices. These highly reliable and powerful sensors are suitable for measurement angles of up to 360°. They offer a 12-bit resolution and an independent linearity of +/- 0.5%, and they are available in single, partially, or completely redundant designs.
The extremely flat sensor housing measures only 7mm in height. It is made of a sturdy thermoplastic material, and its two injection moulded screw mounts are reinforced with brass bushings (distances between bores: 31mm). The included matching position transducer also features a small foot print, with a diameter of 22.2mm and a height of 5.6mm. It, too, is constructed of a thermoplastic material with injection moulded brass bushings. Lateral installation offsets of +/- 1.5mm will not compromise measurement integrity. In addition, the sensor side is clearly labelled, thus simplifying installation. These sturdy sensors are sure to be widely used in the fields of industrial and automotive technology, especially in light of their technological and economic advantages coupled with their attractive design.
The Hall Effect
When a current flows through a Hall component, and a magnetic field is applied perpendicular to both, it yields a voltage that runs transversely in relation to the current. Since this voltage is proportionally related to the intensity of the magnetic field, it allows for the performance of non-contacting angular measurements by way of a positioning magnet installed on a rotating shaft (Figure 2). When several sensor components are combined, and the entire signal processing fits into a few components, the construction of complex sensor systems with tiny footprints becomes a possibility. The Hall Effect-based rotary sensors are largely unencumbered by wear and tear, and not influenced by fluctuating field strengths from the positioning magnets. This technology further impresses through high resolutions and good dynamics, high mechanical mounting tolerances, and the possibility of rapidly devising specialized solutions for customer specific demands.
For more information, please contact:
Graham Pattison
Variohm EuroSensor Limited
Williams' Barns
Tiffield Road
Towcester
Northants
NN12 6HP
Tel: +44 (0) 1327 351004
Email: graham@variohm.com
Web: www.variohm.com
Print this articleShare article:
Process and Control Today are not responsible for the content of submitted or externally produced articles and images. Click here to email us about any errors or omissions contained within this article.