Preferred Method of Mounting a Linear Scale

Synopsis: A Linear Scale is used to provide a feedback of the displacement of any axis on a machine. The linear scale consists of two parts i.e. a) Scale which consists of a Glass or metallic plate with gratings on it, enclosed in an extruded channel usually made of aluminum. b) Scanner, which generates electrical signals when there is a displacement between the scale and scanner. The scanner consists of signal processing electronics, which conditions the pulses generated for further processing by a CNC or other control and display electronics. Usually the scanner has all the electric connections and there is no connection to the scale. Two ways of Fixing a Scale to a Slide: Whenever a scale/scanner combination is fixed to a linear slide, one of them is connected to a moving part, and the other to the stationary base of the slide.

Scale fixed on stationary part

Connecting cable to signal processing electronics

Bracket With Scanner fixed on moving part Method 1 Fixing Scale on the stationary part and Scanner on the moving part of a slide

Scale fixed on moving part

Connecting cable to signal processing electronics

Bracket With Scanner fixed on stationary part

Method 2 Fixing Scale on the moving part and Scanner on the stationary part of a slide

Date : 15-March-2004

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Preferred Method of Mounting a Linear Scale

Which is Better Method 1 or 2? In Method-1 the scanner moves and so does the cable along with it. So proper cable wiring involves taking it through a drag chain and further to control electronics. The cable continually experiences straightening and bending fatigue as the slide moves. In Method-2 there is no movement of the scanner, so such fatigue wear is eliminated. Hence this is a better option. What are the constraints? There may be some practical constraints of space in mounting the scale as suggested. Further in some scale installations, manufacturer suggests pressurizing the scale with compressed air. This involves an air connection to one end of the scale. When the scale moves the air hose connection moves instead of the electric cable. Maybe movement of the air hose is better since even if it gets damaged, it is easier to replace and less expensive. Finally which ever method is adopted, it is always strongly suggested to mount the scale upside down, to restrict ingress of machining fluids, dust etc.

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Date : 15-March-2004

www.controlon.com

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