Discover our encoders for robotics highlights

The new KCI 120 Dplus dual encoder from HEIDENHAIN provides motor feedback and position measurement in a single device. By measuring the position downstream from the gearbox, the KCI 120 Dplus compensates for design-related errors in dynamic, highly maneuverable robots. Articulated robots with a serial architecutre, for example, may contain up to six axes, each of which affects final accuracy.

• Each axis is driven by a servomotor through a gear system that is susceptible to zero-position error, reversal error, and joint elasticity
• Applied forces and dynamic effects from the machining task may further limit positioning accuracy

The dual functionality of the KCI 120 Dplus encoder is realized through a single central scanning unit and two separate circular scales, resulting in a compact, easy-to-integrate device. Its functionally safe, purely serial EnDat 2.2 interface also allows integration into safety-related applications such as human-robot collaboration.

Robot makers can significantly improve the absolute position accuracy of their designs by adding a high-accuracy angle encoder to each robot axis. Mounted downstream from motor's gear system, these secondary encoders measure the actual position of each robot joint.

Ideal for this application are modular angle encoders such as the WMRA angle measuring system from AMO. Thanks to its modular design, consisting of a scale drum or measuring ring and a separate scanning unit, it can handle large shaft diameters and challenging installation scenarios. The measuing ring of the WMRA from AMO is selectable in any diameter.