Is your maintenance staff still in the dark?

IndicoderFSI Technologies has shed some light on the problem! The “Indicoder” option is available exclusively on all FSI cube type encoders (ESE, RSE, HDE, etc*). With this option, LEDs are located directly on the body of the encoder that flash as the shaft is turned to instantly verify correct output operation. This indicator will make set-up quick and easy and would also aid in troubleshooting (if that ever becomes necessary). Just ask for the “Indicoder” option when ordering your FSI cube encoder. (*formerly known as Fork Standards encoders)

New line of counters in the 2013 FSI Product Guide

FSI Quasar CountersThe latest 2013 Product Guide from FSI features a new line of full-featured bi-directional and programmable counters. The Quasar family of digital counters offers 2 non-sequential presets and 2 outputs for flexibility in use on a wide variety of applications. Once installed, units are waterproof and durable enough for use in manufacturing. Quasar encounters work well with Fork Standard encoders as well as many other types of automated controls. To find the counter that best suits your needs, review our latest product guide at www.fsinet.com

Heavy Duty Encoders (HDE) work well for grimy manufacturing processes

The HDE model of Fork Standards encoders is uniquely suited to work well in wet or grimy manufacturing environments. This encoder has an extra-rugged and fully-sealed cube housing. The unit features double shaft seals which prevent mechanical damage to the bearings and seal the shaft against dry or liquid contaminants. To find out more about our HDE model of encoder, visit http://www.fsinet.com/ECS-HDE-Encoder.htm

Would your application benefit from a customized sensor?

SensorIn addition to encoders and machine vision systems/solutions, FSI Technologies Inc. designs and manufactures custom photoelectric sensors too. Many OEMs use sensors as an inexpensive and effective way of assisting in automatic inspection. Sensors are most often used to measure speed (or RPM), presence or absence of a part and as a way to calculate distance/positioning. If you think your application would benefit from a leading edge, specialized sensor product, one of our engineers can steer you in the right direction. For more information about FSI sensors, visit www.fsinet.com/ECS-Sensors.htm

Encoders – Usage and Application Examples

Encoders are commonly used to provide feedback for motor speed control, length measurement and line/product positioning. FSI encoders are built using a rugged aluminum housing that contains precision bearings and electronics. They feature a shaft that protrudes from the side of the encoder. Hollowshaft encoders feature a “hole in the middle” and are mounted over an existing shaft on a motor. A few practical examples for encoder installations are:

    Encoders

  • Conveyors
  • CNC machines
  • Process lines
  • Rolling Mills
  • Automatic Welding

Applications

Motor Speed/RPM readout – This is one of the more common ways encoders are used. Here, the encoder is mounted onto the end of a motor via a shaft. The encoder’s shaft measures the speed and direction of the motor and provides feedback to the drive. The drive then uses the encoder feedback to accurately control the speed.
Linear Measurement/Cut-to-Length – In this instance, an encoder is mounted onto roller or motor and is used alongside a measuring wheel. The encoder provides a fixed number of pulses in a revolution. A device (such as a preset counter or PLC) is used with the encoder. This device can then deliver a relay or electrical output which operates when the desired length is reached.

Position Measurement – To assess and control positioning (as necessary for a CNC machine or for a programmable limit switch), often an encoder is added to a motor, to an intermediate axle shaft, or both. The important variable in this set-up is incremental movement. Again, a counter, PLC or controller is used. The use of an encoder allows the operator to control both the speed and the position of the parts within the machine.

FSI/ Kwangwoo hollowshaft encoders continue to be a popular choice in 2012

Kwangwoo hollowshaft EncoderFSI/ Kwangwoo hollowshaft encoders continue to be a popular item in 2012. Encoders convert motion into digital information for display or control based on motion variables such as position, speed, length, RPM, etc. The advantage to using a hollowshaft encoder is that access to the end of a shaft is unnecessary. The encoder simply slides over the shaft and is mounted on it like a doughnut (as pictured). For more information, visit
www.fsinet.com