What is Encoder?

Summary

This video script introduces encoders, devices that detect and provide feedback on position, direction, speed, or counts in various industries. Encoders convert motion into electrical signals for a controlling device like a PLC to interpret. The script covers different encoder technologies, particularly optical, and types like absolute and incremental. It also explains how encoders are used in closed-loop applications, such as VFD control, measuring, and counting processes. Examples include verifying pump speed, cutting aluminum to size, and ensuring bottles with caps move through an assembly without errors. The video promises a future lesson on incremental and absolute encoders and encourages learning PLC programming at realpars.com.

Takeaways

• 📈 Encoders are devices used across various industries to provide feedback on position, direction, speed, or counts.
• 🔄 Encoders translate motion into electrical signals, which are then interpreted by controlling devices like PLCs.
• 🌐 There are multiple technologies used in encoders, including magnetic, mechanical, resistive, and optical, with optical being the most widely used.
• 🔍 Encoders come in different types, such as absolute and incremental, with incremental optical encoders being a common example using light and photo sensing devices.
• 🛠️ Encoders are used in closed-loop applications like servo or VFD control, measuring, and counts, providing precise feedback for various processes.
• 💧 In the context of VFD control, encoders can be used to verify the speed of a pump, ensuring it operates at the desired rate.
• 🔪 For measuring applications, encoders can help determine the amount of material fed through a cutting mechanism, adjusting the cutting blade accordingly.
• 📊 Encoders count the number of items passing through a conveyor line, such as bottles, and can be used to verify the correct number of items entering and exiting the system.
• 🔧 The flexibility of an encoder setup is demonstrated by using different types of bottles, each requiring different handling, and the ability to place sensors at various distances.
• 🧠 Encoders, combined with selector switches, can be used to configure the system for different product types, ensuring the machine operates correctly despite variations in product design.
• 📚 The video script also encourages viewers to learn more about PLC programming and visit realpars.com for easy-to-understand resources.

Q & A

What is the primary function of an encoder?

An encoder's primary function is to sense position, direction, speed, or counts and translate motion into an electrical signal that can be interpreted and used within a control system.

What are the different types of encoder technologies mentioned in the script?

The script mentions 'magnetic', 'mechanical', 'resistive', and 'optical' as the different types of encoder technologies.

Why is the optical encoder the most widely used motion translating technology?

The script does not provide a specific reason for the optical encoder being the most widely used, but it is likely due to its reliability, precision, and the ease of implementation in various applications.

What are the two main types of encoders described in the script?

The two main types of encoders described in the script are 'absolute' and 'incremental' encoders.

Can you explain how an incremental optical type encoder works?

An incremental optical type encoder works by using a beam of light that passes through a disk with opaque lines in a specific pattern. A photo sensing device on the other side of the disk interprets the light based on the pattern, similar to a shutter blocking and unblocking the light. The pulses of light are then converted to an electrical signal.

What are some applications where encoders are used?

Encoders are used in applications such as closed-loop servo or VFD control, measuring, and counts. Examples include verifying the speed of a pump on a VFD, cutting aluminum to a specific size, and counting bottles on a conveyor line.

How does an encoder help in a VFD control application?

In a VFD control application, an encoder provides feedback on the speed of the VFD, allowing for verification that the pump or motor is operating at the requested speed.

What is the purpose of an encoder in a measuring process for cutting aluminum sheets?

In a measuring process, an encoder attached to the conveyor indicates the length of material that has been fed through the cutting assembly, allowing for precise cutting to the required size.

How does an encoder contribute to the counting process on a conveyor line?

An encoder helps in the counting process by providing a precise count of items, such as bottles, that pass through an assembly. It ensures that the same number of items that enter the assembly also exit within a predetermined time frame.

What is the challenge presented by different bottle types in the counting process, and how does an encoder help?

The challenge is to handle different bottle types, such as prescription bottles and antifreeze bottles with large handles, without causing system faults. An encoder, combined with a selector switch for setup mode, allows the machine to be flexible and accommodate different bottle types by recording and adjusting for expected behaviors.

How does an encoder ensure flexibility in handling different types of bottles on a conveyor line?

An encoder ensures flexibility by allowing the system to record and adjust for different bottle sizes and shapes. It records the entrance and exit encoder values, calculates the bottle count, and can ignore expected handle obstructions during the process.