Large-scale rotational applications, such as those used in theatre settings, for concerts, and theme park attractions, require precise motion feedback to gain optimal performance, safety, and efficiency. Custom encoder design provides an innovative solution for these applications, similar to other high-demand products such as forklifts, MRI machines, mobile equipment, and a wide variety of specific stagecraft turntables. Reliability and accurate positioning of the rotational element is key. 

Encoder Products Company has designed a custom encoder design that leverages a spring-loaded gear or wheel system to provide absolute motion feedback. The challenge with such applications is that large diameter rotary motion introduces unique problems because traditional encoders struggle to provide accurate feedback. The reasons for this are many. For example, accurate tracking of large diameters requires specialized designs, which can often involve large, fragile, difficult to install, and very expensive optical sensor rings. Further challenges include environmental durability, space constraints, and safe operational control. In addition, gear ratios that result in irrational numbers can be difficult to work with. 

Encoder Products has designed a gear slewing technology that allows their encoders to calculate the correct position of a large ring gear when installed on a smaller drive gear using any gear ratio. The company’s A36R Absolute Encoder is a 22 Bit ST/24 Bit MT single turn/multi-turn absolute encoder that uses BiSS C or SSI communications. The device has a low profile of just 1-inch (25.4mm). The encoder offers flex mount options to eliminate couplings and the option of a battery/backup power interface for data retention in the absence of primary power. 

Custom Solutions

For large-scale rotational projects, Encoder Products Company eliminates the need for engineers to spend time piecing together parts and assembling components themselves. They offer customizable solutions that combine the housing from their TR1 Tru-Trac® wheeled encoder and the stability of the A36 Absolute Encoder with a spring-loaded gear or wheel system tailored to each application's unique requirements. 

TheTR1 Tru-Trac is rugged and versatile. Its housing provides robust protection against environmental factors such as dust, moisture, and vibrations, while its modular design allows seamless integration into diverse systems. Known for its compact size and exceptional performance, the A36 encoder delivers precise absolute motion feedback even under harsh environmental conditions. The inclusion of a spring-loaded gear or wheel mechanism enables precise tracking of large-diameter rotary motion, ensuring maximum positioning accuracy.

Particularly valuable in stagecraft where the turntable must rotate smoothly and precisely to create seamless theatrical or production experiences, the company’s spring-loaded gear or wheel system pushes the limits on accuracy for large-diameter motion and position tracking. This ensures flawless operation in a variety of high-pressure settings. The encoder can also be used as secondary feedback for safety, giving position data right at the point of motion itself.

Encoder Products Company’s custom encoder solutions are redefining motion feedback technology across industries. By combining the rugged TR1 Tru-Trac encoder housing, high-performance A36 absolute encoder, and a precision gear and wheel system, the company is able to deliver an all-in-one solution that provides engineers with the tools they need—without the hassle of assembly. 

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Encoder Products Company

A36R

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*Lead photo is a general photo from Depositphotos.com