Comparative study of the behavior of optical linear encoders under vibrations using passive protection elements

Abstract

In this article a comparative study between transmisive and reflexive, multi-field and single-field optical linear encoders is done when metallic and elastomeric materials are used as passive vibration protection elements. The interest of the study lies in the fact that the accuracy of these displacement sensors is strongly conditioned by vibrations. Actually, manufacturers recommend the use of protection elements attached to the encoder when the acceleration amplitude exceeds certain value. The methodology used is based on the analysis of the encoder over a frequency range obtaining an accuracy chart that allows comparing the encoder’s behaviour in different situations.