HS20 long range laser encoder

The HS20 laser system is suitable for use in harsh machine shop environments with ±1.0 part per million (ppm or µm/m) being achievable for axis lengths up to 60 m.

Features and benefits

• Sub-micron resolution - when integrated into the machine feedback system it gives sub-micron feedback at rates up to 2 m/s (depending on configuration).
• Non-contact measurement - eliminates the associated errors found in rack and pinion or ball screw feedback systems, such as hysteresis, backlash, mechanical and cyclic errors.
• Easy configuration and set up - a single set of dip switches allow for the laser head to be easily configured.

To maintain accuracy over a range of environmental conditions, the HS20 laser should be used in combination with the RCU10 compensator, which compensates for the air refractive index changes due to variations in the ambient environment. The RCU10 compensator can also be used to convert a laser wavelength related resolution to a more standard resolution. For example, it can convert 633 nm to 1 µm output resolution.

Renishaw offers a range of optical metrology accessories to enable measurement of linear displacement across a range of axes The alignment plate provides stable mounting locations for the HS20 laser and optics for ease of adjustment and alignment.

HS20 system overview

Beam protection ducting

The beam protection ducting system can be used with the long or short range linear optics, to protect the beam path from debris and coolant. It also provides a stable thermal environment for the laser measurement beam.

Fundamental to the reliability of position feedback is that a stable, accurate, laser alignment needs to be maintained along the full axis length. In long range applications, alignment stability can be affected by temperature gradients formed through the beam. These are usually caused by rapidly changing environmental conditions.

The ducting system protects against the formation of thermal gradients by including an 'air feed' system that stirs the air over the entire axis length.

Features and benefits

• Beam path protection - the beam protection ducting provides the final line of defence in protecting the laser beam from debris and coolant.
• Thermal stability - the air feed system within the ducting stirs the air to create a consistent environment along the length of the axis.
• Modular construction - standard 3 m length provides a modular based ducting system when added together for long axis applications.

FAQs