Photo Solutions empowers motion control engineering automation across a multitude of fields with our industry-leading encoder discs and scales. Technology continues to evolve with automated processes, and our custom solutions make that possible.
Motion Control Engineering Since 1981
Efficiency, precision, and automation are the benefits of motion control engineering. This type of automation focuses on achieving precise and accurate control over the motion of mechanical components or systems within optoelectronic devices. This sub-field of automation empowers many important industries and life-saving technologies, from warehouse robotics and driverless vehicles to precision surgical instruments.
Motion Control Components
Motion control components provide better positioning, alignment, focus, and scanning capabilities to applications like encoder discs, encoder scales, and hub and disc assemblies. Let’s discuss each component in more detail.
Encoder Discs
Encoder discs are commonly used in rotary encoders, typically made of a high-precision material like glass, quartz, film, or aluminum, and feature patterns of equally spaced lines or slots known as encoder marks. The encoder discs interact with an optical or magnetic sensor, generating electrical signals proportional to the rotation angle. Photo Solutions specializes in unique patterning or custom applications for encoder discs. Our 34 years of encoder disc manufacturing means we can handle a variety of designs and form factors for encoder discs in diameters from 5mm to 600mm.
Encoder Scales
Another encoder type is an encoder scale, which measures linear displacement and velocity. The scale is often made of glass or metal and contains a pattern of marks or gratings. Optical or magnetic sensors in the reading head convert the detected displacement into electrical signals, which help determine the linear motion’s precise position and velocity. Photo Solutions’ encoder scales are available in lengths from 2mm to 800 mm. We can produce these scales using glass, quartz, film, and aluminum, offering reflective and transmissive products for various applications.
Hub and Disc Assemblies
Hub and disc assemblies are perfect for achieving the right angular positioning for certain motion control engineering applications. The disc contains patterns or graduations that are read by position sensors. As the hub and disc rotate, the position sensors detect changes in the patterns and provide feedback signals to the control system, enabling accurate measurement and control of the angular position. Photo Solution’s precision Swiss screw machined hub bores are toleranced at +.0005”/-.0000 with the disc pattern concentricity to <.001, which means very precise results. We can also bond to gears, flywheels, actuators, and assemblies.
Industry Applications
From providing components for factories to robotics in warehouses, elevators, and CNC machining, this style of automation affords so many advantages to the manufacturing and engineering industries.
Factory Automation
In manufacturing plants, motion control systems help to control and synchronize the movement of machinery, robots, conveyors, and other equipment. These systems ensure precise positioning, speed control, and synchronization of multiple components, resulting in improved productivity, reduced errors, and increased efficiency.
Warehouse Automation
Motion control has also revolutionized the field of warehouse automation. In modern distribution centers and warehouses, automated systems are responsible for the efficient movement and storage of goods. Motion control systems are crucial in controlling automated guided vehicles (AGVs), robotic arms, conveyor systems, and automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS). By implementing motion control technology, warehouses can streamline operations, reduce labor costs, enhance order fulfillment speed, and maximize storage capacity.
CNC Machining Systems
Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining systems rely heavily on motion control engineering. CNC machines, such as milling machines and lathes, execute precise and complex machining operations. Motion control systems provide the necessary control and coordination of axes movement, spindle rotation, tool positioning, and cutting parameters. This level of precision and automation ensures accurate manufacturing of components, increased productivity, and enhanced repeatability.
Satellite Receivers
Motion control automation plays a vital role in satellite receivers, enabling precise tracking and positioning of satellite dishes. These systems utilize motorized mounts and actuators to align the satellite dish with the desired satellite in the sky. Motion control feedback systems ensure accurate tracking and compensate for any disturbances or misalignment caused by wind or other factors. By employing motion control technology driven by precision components, satellite receivers can maintain a stable and reliable connection with satellites.
Elevators
The elevator industry heavily relies on motion control auto ensure safe and efficient transportation. Motion control systems control elevators’ speed, acceleration, deceleration, and leveling. They also enable accurate floor positioning, door control, and emergency stop functionalities. With motion control technology, elevators can operate smoothly and safely.
Trust Photo Solutions as Your Partner in Motion Control Engineering
With so many applications for motion control engineering, Photo Solutions has the privilege of serving clients across industries and applications. We thrive on pushing the boundaries of automation, creating custom solutions for clients, and delivering quality! To get precision components for your next motion-controlled engineering project, contact us to get started!
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