Encoder for providing incremental and absolute position data
US6175109A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 16, 1998 |
| Grant date | Jan 16, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 16, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01D5/34792
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An optical encoder has a single data track which is scanned photoelectrically by a scanning unit. The data track consists of an incremental track and a plurality of overlying code tracks so that it is possible to generate incremental output signals as well as at least coarse absolute positional information by scanning only one track. The scanning unit comprises a first detecting unit with a phased array of photodetectors to scan the incremental graduation. A second detecting unit with a plurality of photodetectors is provided for scanning the code tracks. The code tracks can be used to generate commutation signals for brushless motors.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.