The new EKS36/EKM36 Hiperface® DSL encoders by SICK are the first encoder systems to use the revolutionary Hiperface® DSL motor feedback encoder interface, enabling system suppliers to offer superior performing brushless servo systems.
Darren Pratt, encoder specialist for SICK (UK), commented: “Utilising Hiperface® DSL, the EKS36/EKM36 encoders deliver ultra smooth operation, reduced cable costs and advanced data storage capacity for rapid error-free set up, fault tracing and condition monitoring; they are also available in SIL2 (PLd) certified variants for integration into safe motion systems.”
The EKS36 single turn absolute encoder has a resolution of up to 20 bits/revolution to allow better drive control and ensure ultra-smooth motor operation. Hiperface® DSL ensures data is synchronised to the drive cycle and refreshed every 12 microseconds for the very best dynamic system performance.
The EKM36 adds multiturn data for determining absolute shaft position over up to 4096 turns. This enables automatic initialisation of the axis at power up; the result is the elimination of an initialisation run, reducing the time required for machine start up sequences.
Commissioning of a drive system employing the EKS36/EKM36 is straightforward as motor specific parameters stored in the encoder are automatically downloaded to the drive, removing the potential for errors and time consuming manual data input.
The robust Hiperface® DSL protocol enables fully digital data transmission over up to 100 metres. If desired a traditional dedicated feedback cable can be used with a four wire connection between encoder and drive.
However, the Hiperface® DSL protocol is so robust and resistant to EMC interference that a 2 wire solution is offered enabling the use of a single twisted pair core inside a standard motor power cable for the communication of feedback data to the drive; these cores are traditionally used for the temperature winding sensor. The winding temperature sensor data is connected to and digitised by the EKS36/EKM36 for transmission with the encoder data. As a result the requirement for a dedicated feedback cable is removed together with all the costs associated with its production, installation and commissioning. Furthermore, this provides the motor manufacturer with more design freedom and opportunities to produce more compact motor designs.
The EKS36/EKM36 also have data logging facilities which provide access to a usage histogram with lifetime prediction. This is used for preventative maintenance warning generation to help eliminate production downtime due to end of life failures. The storage of temperature and operating speed data also facilitate analysis in case of motor failure.
Darren Pratt concludes: “The EKS36/EKM36 pack a powerful punch! Machine builders using a motor and drive solution utilising the Hiperface® DSL enabled EKS36/EKM36 encoder can benefit from a huge reduction in cabling costs and commissioning time. In addition, their customers benefit from a high level of productivity and excellent product quality combined with maximum machine availability and a reduced cost of ownership”.
For more information on the SICK EKS36/EKM36 encoders and the Hiperface® DSL protocol, please contact: Ann Attridge or Andrea Hornby on 01727 831121 or email ann.attridge@sick.co.uk or andrea.hornby@sick.co.uk.