The advantages of using a non-contact encoder in your system

Non-contact position sensors, also known as Contactless, Frameless, or Hollow Shaft Encoders, are considered to be a niche type due to their particular structure.

The main goal of using a frameless encoder as part of a system design is to reduce the total size, weight, and cost of the system without compromising on the required high performance. Thus, frameless encoders enable the application engineer to achieve the goal of maximal system performance in a minimal size and weight factor.

Additionally, in systems where reliability and minimum maintenance are important, a frameless encoder provides the benefit of having no mechanical contact between the stationary and moving parts, therefore having no wear and no mechanical failure mechanism, common in other encoder types. This results in a higher MTBF and reduced maintenance requirements for the application.

In a frameless encoder, the encoders’ static part, the stator, would be attached to the system chassis or stationary housing, while the rotating part, the rotor, attached to the moving/rotating element or axis of the system, also sometimes known as the load side of the system. This direct attachment to the load part of the system enhances the ability of the Encoder to provide a higher system accuracy.

Netzer Precision has unique product lines of the Electric Encoders^™ frameless/contactless rotary encoders that fully meet the industry requirements. Specifically designed to withstand extreme conditions, these encoders provide a versatile and reliable solution that is a perfect fit for many types of high-end applications.

The capacitive encoder technology inside Netzers’ Electric Encoders^™ provides position sensing simultaneously throughout the entire circumference of the encoder and is not dependent upon a single or double read head, therefore having a precise, reliable and repeatable position sensing.
This capability provides a higher mounting tolerance while maintaining performance. In order to understand this feature in more detail, please read our Application note.

Alongside non-contact encoders, many shaft encoders or housed encoders can be found in the market. The main advantage of these encoders is usually to allow simple integration with the existing shaft. However, in a high-performance application, it is a challenge for the system integrators to facilitate the precise and expensive mechanics required in order to achieve and maintain the required accuracy performance while using a contact encoder.

Do you want to know which absolute rotary encoder best suits your application? Contact our engineers for further information.