Three in one – Draw-wire encoders with integrated inclinometer for position, speed and inclination

Mobile machines such as mobile cranes or mobile elevating work platforms are exposed to harsh environmental conditions that their components must withstand at all times. At the same time, installation space is at a premium, so the more compact and smarter a component, the easier it is to install and integrate. SIKO’s PURE.MOBILE line of draw-wire encoders was specifically developed for mobile machines. With the optional integration of inclinometers, they meet the requirements for high precision along with low installation and cabling effort, including in safety-critical areas of application.

Various measured variables must be detected via different sensors in order to ensure the safe use of mobile machines. Draw-wire encoders, for example, detect the linear position of mobile elevating work platforms, while separate rotary encoders or inclinometers detect the installation angle of the boom. However, having too many components means having higher installation and commissioning costs.

As a sensor specialist for mobile machines, SIKO GmbH is now offering a smart sensor solution: the PURE.MOBILE family of wire-actuated encoders feature an optional integrated single-axis inclinometer that can also detect the inclination. Thanks to its modular sensor design, every SIKO draw-wire encoder can thus be expanded to include inclination detection without changing the sensor’s design, size or connection type. This allows you to reduce installation space, cabling effort and product costs while increasing functionality.

The SG121 and SG150 draw-wire encoder types offer maximum measuring lengths of 12,000 and 15,000 mm respectively. For mid-range measuring lengths, you can select the SG31 and SG61 wire-actuated encoders that feature maximum measuring lengths of 3,000 mm and 6,000 mm respectively.

The latest-generation integrable inclinometer measures inclinations in the range of ±180°. With its resolution of up to 0.001° and precision of ±0.2°, it provides high precision even in case of minor displacements. Compared to what’s available on the market, it stands out in particular thanks to its integrated temperature compensation, which ensures stable values over the entire measurement and temperature range. The sensor data can be transmitted independently of the position value via CANopen, CANopen Safety or SAE J1939 interface.

The SG121 and SG150 wire-actuated encoders are available in both redundant and non-redundant position and inclination detection variants. The sensors can thus also be used in safety-critical applications up to performance level d.

SIKO developed the PURE.MOBILE sensors specifically for mobile machines in order to meet their special requirements. The sturdy housings of the sensors make them extremely robust and very compact, enabling them to provide precise and reliable measured values even when exposed to harsh environmental conditions. For example, they feature significant EMC, shock and vibration resistance as well as E1 certification from the German Federal Motor Transport Authority.

Profile of draw-wire encoders

• robust design 
• easy mounting 
• measuring lengths from 3,000 mm to 15,000 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