Linear (retroreflector) system

Linear RLE systems comprise an RLU laser unit and (generally) RLD10 detector head(s) configured for use with retroreflector target optics. Choice of laser unit is very much dependant on operating environment, with the RLU20 being particularly suited to vacuum and controlled environment applications. RLU10 laser units are used within RLE10 systems, and RLU20 laser units in RLE20 systems.

Detector heads are available for use with either 0° or 90° beam output orientations.

Linear solutions can also use detector heads suitable for use with plane mirror target optics. Whilst this will increase output resolution, axis length is reduced to 1 m.

Specifications

For non-vacuum applications, some form of refractive index compensation is required to maintain accuracy under fluctuating environmental conditions. Renishaw offers the RCU10 real-time quadrature compensation system to compensate for these variances.

Resolutions to 38.6 picometres can be achieved by integrating an RPI20 parallel interface into the RLE system (plane mirror configuration). For enhanced resolution with a digital output, the REE series of Renishaw interpolators can offer resolutions of up to .395 nm (plane mirror configuration). This interface accepts differential analogue 1 Vpp sine / cosine signals and provides a parallel format output. See Accessories for information on the RCU10 compensation system, the RPI20, REE and other auxiliary equipment for use with RLE systems.