Smart sensor family for mobile machines

Draw-wire encoders measure position, speed and inclination

Whether mobile elevating work platforms, mobile cranes or truck-mounted concrete pumps – mobile machines have to consistently function as smoothly, precisely and efficiently as possible. This requires smart sensors that can reliably detect the complex movements of the machines. The functions of SIKO GmbH’s PURE.MOBILE family of draw-wire encoders can be optionally extended to detect several measured variables at the same time, thus reducing the installation effort and costs.

Various different sensors are necessary to detect all the geometric positions of a boom / lift mast on mobile machines or forklift trucks. Alongside draw-wire sensors to detect the linear position, rotary encoders or inclinometers are also used to detect rotational movements. Although all of these sensors are essential to ensure the machine’s safe operation and stability, a large number of sensors also means increasing complexity due to more cabling and installation work as well as higher product costs. The integrated sensor variants of the PURE.MOBILE family from SIKO GmbH, manufacturer of sensors for mobile machines, are a smart alternative that saves space, installation effort and costs.

The central components of the PURE.MOBILE series are SG31 and SG61 wire-actuated encoders, with a maximum measuring length of 3 to 6 meters. Integrating the latest generation of inclinometers, they combine the ability to detect not only position and speed, but also the measured variable of inclination. The two wire-actuated encoders are complemented by the large SG121 and SG150 variants, which offer a maximum measuring length of 12 and 15 meters respectively.

The integrated single-axis inclinometer is available as an option and measures inclinations in the range of ±180° with a resolution of up to 0.001° and a precision of ±0.2°, meaning that the sensor can detect even minor displacements. Its integrated temperature compensation keeps the values stable over the entire measurement and temperature range. The sensor data is transmitted to the controller via CANopen, CANopen Safety or SAE J1939 interface independently of the position value.

Thanks to the modular sensor design, the inclinometer can be integrated into every SIKO draw-wire encoder without changing the sensor’s design, size or connection type. Increasing the range of functions helps reduce machine-related installation space, installation effort and product costs.

The SG31 and SG61 draw-wire encoders are also available in a redundant and a non-redundant variant for position and inclination detection. This means they can also be used for safety-critical applications up to performance level d.

All PURE.MOBILE sensors have been developed according to the requirements of mobile machines and feature an extremely robust design. This includes E1 certification from the German Federal Motor Transport Authority as well as high EMC, shock and vibration resistance. Protected by their compact housings, the sensors consistently deliver reliable and precise values even when exposed to harsh environmental conditions.

Profile of draw-wire encoders: 

• robust design 
• easy mounting
• measuring lengths from 3000 mm to 15000 mm 
• flexible wire outlet thanks to Wire-Flex technology 
• also available in safety version in combination with the WV58MR rotary encoder 
• great flexibility thanks to freely selectable rotary encoders with a standard flange of 58 mm 
• various wire types 
• PURE.MOBILE standard