Company Press Probably the Thinnest Encoder in the World
28 February 2005
A group of Cambridge, UK , scientists has contacted the Guinness Book of Records to claim the record for the world's thinnest position encoder. At 50 microns, about 2 of these encoders can fit within the thickness of a typical piece of paper.
The encoders are based on a new electromagnetic resonance technology which has been invented, developed and patented by Zettlex Ltd., a technology start-up from the heart of Cambridge 's Silicon Fen in the UK . Target applications include non-contact displacement encoders where cost, space, dirt or weight issues mean that traditional sensors cannot be used. Applications also include rotary knobs or linear encoders for user interfaces in tough environments such as off road vehicles, medical equipment and domestic appliances.
The technology's main components are based on simple printed circuit boards and, when conformally coated, require no mechanical housing. The sensors can be sealed to IP 68 and are rated from -40 to 125 Celsius. If flexible PCB's are used they can be extended to carry power and signals, thus avoiding the use of cables and connectors. With the application of contact adhesive to one side of the PCB, mechanical fixings can also be avoided when connecting to fascia panels.
The units are available in rotary, linear, 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional forms as well as a range of sizes. Linear versions range from 1mm to 2850mm.
Zettlex are marketing the technology as an inexpensive replacement for traditional sensors.
Zettlex's Chief Technologist, Dr. Darran Kreit, says “We hope the market will find the slim, lightweight form of the sensor attractive, but I suspect the slim price tags will be the key to our success.”
NOTES TO EDITORS:- Zettlex is a sensors company.Our non-contact position sensors measure accurately & reliably even in harsh conditions - hence our motto - 'Precision in the Extreme'. We
- Design & make position sensors
- Supply sensor components - notably integrated circuits for inductive position sensors
- Develop non-contact sensing solutions to customer requirements.
Unique technology and laminar, printed construction enables inductive sensors with no contacts, no bearings, no delicate parts, no maintenance, no bother.....just accurate measurements - all day, every day.
We sell our sensors to OEMs and system integrators in a range of sectors. About half of our business is for safety related or safety critical control systems and we are familiar with the demanding requirements of industrial, aerospace, defence, oil & gas sectors. We can supply fully documented and qualified sensing solutions to DO-254 and DO-178.
Applications include position measurement, user interfaces, servo controls & motor encoders. This covers linear transducers and rotary encoders as well as measurement of 2D displacement, 3D displacement, multi-turn angle, tilt, weight, pressure, vibration, strain and flow.
Zettlex inductive position sensors are an economical, lightweight and robust alternative to potentiometers, optical encoders, rotary encoders, resolvers, RVDTs, LVDTs, magnetic sensors and capacitive encoders.
Zettlex is ISO 9001 and BS EN 13980 certified for the manufacture of position sensors including intrinsically safe ATEX transmitters and position feedback controls for potentially explosive environments.
