Dual-output encoder cuts downtime costs, adds reliability

By Control Engineering Staff March 23, 2006
BEI’s compact HS35 Series encoders offer cost and space savings with a dual-output option of redundant signals from one device.

Innovations in motion-control products continue to come to market. Recently, a dual-output option has been added to a series of heavy-duty, hollow-shaft encoders from BEI Industrial Encoder Div ., which provides redundant encoder signals that ensure maximum control system reliability. This new feature of HS35 Series encoders uses two sets of internal electronics, which send identical, isolated output signals to separate connectors. In case of “electrical damage” to one output, the cable can simply be moved from one connector to the other. Downtime can be cut from hours or days to minutes, according to BEI.
The dual-output feature also enables further benefits. With the connectors being mechanically parallel and electrically isolated, feedback signals can be safely sent to two different controllers from one encoder. “Connecting to a second controller and routing the cable is straightforward,” says BEI.
HS35 Series encoder’s heavy-duty design includes a rugged cast-metal housing and dual preloaded bearings for robustness and reliability. Rotating shaft seals and a sealed connector give the device NEMA 4/13 and IP65 ratings. The hollow-shaft feature handles a variety of shaft sizes (up to 1-in. diameter). Installed package length of HS35 measures just over 2 in., making it ideal for equipment with constrained axial encoder mounting space.
BEI Industrial Encoder Div. is an operating division of BEI Technologies Inc., an established manufacturer of electronic sensors and motion control products used in industrial, medical, scientific, defense, aerospace, and other applications.

—Frank J. Bartos, Control Engineering, executive editor
fbartos@reedbusiness.com