CARY, N.C. (July 30,, 2008) -- MTS Systems Corp., Sensors Division's Temposonics?nbsp;linear-position sensors provide precision and increased productivity in plastic injection molding machines. The MTS linear-position sensors can generate up to 20 simultaneous position outputs along a given sensing element, making them a cost-effective replacement for the traditional array of proximity sensors once used in most injection molding applications. The inherent capability of Temposonics technology to provide multiple position feedback along the same plane of motion make these sensors ideal for this machinery in addition to many other applications.
"Today, where more precision, faster cycle times and quicker setups are critical to the injection molding machine's productivity, linear position sensors are the first choice of many OEMs - especially for larger, longer stroke machines - because they are capable of stroke ranges greater than 5000 mm, yet can also provide resolution as small as 1 micron," said Matt Hankinson, Temposonics marketing manager.
When injection molding machines used proximity sensors to detect and help control motion of the injection, carriage, mold, and ejector motion during an injection cycle, adjustment of the cycle was accomplished by adjusting the position of the proximity sensors, requiring a lot of setup time and often resulting in marginal performance.
The magnetostrictive sensor's multi-position capability allows for tool or cartridge positioning automation, significantly reducing changeover time and increasing machine productivity. In addition, use of smart programmable R-Series fieldbus sensors mean that setups can be stored and recalled directly at the PLC / HMI for even faster setup times.
The magnetostrictive sensor's ability to generate "simultaneous" multiple position outputs along a given sensing element benefits injection molding machinery because many of their motion control axes operate in parallel and in reasonably close proximity. For example, in most cases, the injection carriage and injection ram centerlines are parallel and overlap one another. By developing a scheme to bring the motion of these two axes to a single sensor, manufacturers can essentially cut their per-axis sensor cost in half.
The rugged, reliable, non-contact sensor construction results in reduced maintenance and down time, while high shock and vibration tolerance and superior EMI and noise immunity ensure trouble-free operation. The sensors also enable customers to store pre-set configurations for a wide variety of product shapes and sizes, reducing startup and changeover times.
The multiple magnet capability is available in select MTS Sensors' R- and G- Series sensors.
The R-Series sensors are smart sensors for fast, high-precision, and synchronized position control applications, available with SSI, DeviceNet, CANbus, Profibus, EtherCAT and dual output analog outputs.
The R-Series SSI sensor provides the same absolute serial encoder interface (Synchronous Serial Interface) widely used in the servo control flexibility and field adjustability of data format, position resolution, and polarity and synchronization parameters are facilitated through easy-to-use PC interface programming software. This flexibility allows controls engineers to accommodate a range of control interfaces and mechanical system variations within a common location, thereby helping to reduce sensor inventory.
The SSI output of the R-Series sensor product is fast, with an optional data update rate of 250 msec synchronized with an external control clock. MTS' proprietary synchronization technology guarantees the most accurate position output while minimizing inherent system-related delays to produce smooth, precise control.
The R-Series SSI product features position sensing resolution as low as 1 micron (0.00004 in), which is factory or field-adjustable. For higher accuracy requirements, an optional internal linearization improves the sensing accuracy to as low as +/-20 mm, depending on the mechanical application package.
The G-Series sensors are programmable sensors with built-in diagnostics for applications that require analog, start/stop and PWM outputs.
MTS Sensors, a division of MTS Systems Corp., is the global leader in the development and production of magnetostrictive linear-position and liquid-level sensors. Based on MTS' patented Temposonics?nbsp;technology, the Sensors Division is continually developing new ways to apply magnetostrictive sensing technology to solve critical applications in a variety of markets worldwide. With facilities in the U.S., Germany and Japan, MTS Sensors Division is an ISO 9001 certified supplier committed to providing innovative sensing solutions that deliver customers with reliable, cost effective sensing devices.
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