MINISCALE PLUS is consistently accurate and reliable. Measurement is carried out directly during the work process, which considerably reduces Abbe errors.
MINISCALE PLUS is consistently accurate and reliable. Measurement is carried out directly during the work process, which considerably reduces Abbe errors.
Miniature guideway with integrated measuring system – “all in one“
MINISCALE PLUS is based on the proven miniature guideway MINIRAIL. Consequently, the guidance-technical specifications of MINISCALE PLUS also comply with MINIRAIL.
The range includes eight rail widths which can be combined with up to four carriage sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions about the MINISCALE PLUS Measuring System from SCHNEEBERGER
What are the advantages of the MINISCALE PLUS measuring system?
The MINISCALE PLUS system has the advantage that the measuring sensor is directly integrated into the carriage, eliminating the need for additional installation space. A separate length measuring system is not required, which significantly reduces design effort. Additionally, adjusting the position measuring system is unnecessary, as the system operates as a Plug and Play solution.
How does the MINISCALE PLUS measuring system work?
Measurement is performed by a scale embedded in the rail surface with a division period of 100 μm. Two LEDs illuminate this structured surface, creating bright and dark fields. The sensor detects these optical signals and converts them into electrical signals, which are then processed in the interface module.
Why is an interface module necessary?
The interface module is required to convert the raw signals provided by the sensor into standardized output signals. Both analog and digital interface modules are available, offered in four different designs.
Why are reference marks needed?
In an incremental measuring system, a reference mark is used to determine a fixed zero point. This mark is placed on the reference track next to the incremental track and is also detected by the sensor.
How many reference marks can be placed on the rail?
The reference marks can be placed in any number and at any position along the reference track, as long as they are synchronized with the scale. The minimum distance between marks is 1.5 mm, and a distance of at least 2 mm should be maintained from the end of the incremental track.
What resolution and accuracy does the MINISCALE PLUS system offer?
The MINISCALE PLUS system offers a standard resolution of 0.1 μm, with optional resolutions of 1 μm or 10 μm. At a resolution of 0.1 μm, the system guarantees a unidirectional accuracy of ±0.1 μm and a bidirectional accuracy of ±0.2 μm.
What output signals does the MINISCALE PLUS system provide?
The system offers two types of output signals: an analog variant (1 Vpp at 120 Ω) and a digital variant (TTL, compliant with RS 422 standard).
How far can the interface be placed from the MINISCALE PLUS sensor?
If the interface module cannot be placed directly at the sensor, an extension set can be used. A flexible flat cable (FFC) is used between the sensor and the interface module, available in lengths of 250 mm, 400 mm, or 600 mm. An adapter board is supplied with the extension cable.
What are the advantages of the MINISCALE PLUS measuring system? //
The MINISCALE PLUS system has the advantage that the measuring sensor is directly integrated into the carriage, eliminating the need for additional installation space. A separate length measuring system is not required, which significantly reduces design effort. Additionally, adjusting the position measuring system is unnecessary, as the system operates as a Plug and Play solution.
How does the MINISCALE PLUS measuring system work? //
Measurement is performed by a scale embedded in the rail surface with a division period of 100 μm. Two LEDs illuminate this structured surface, creating bright and dark fields. The sensor detects these optical signals and converts them into electrical signals, which are then processed in the interface module.
Why is an interface module necessary? //
The interface module is required to convert the raw signals provided by the sensor into standardized output signals. Both analog and digital interface modules are available, offered in four different designs.
Why are reference marks needed? //
In an incremental measuring system, a reference mark is used to determine a fixed zero point. This mark is placed on the reference track next to the incremental track and is also detected by the sensor.
How many reference marks can be placed on the rail? //
The reference marks can be placed in any number and at any position along the reference track, as long as they are synchronized with the scale. The minimum distance between marks is 1.5 mm, and a distance of at least 2 mm should be maintained from the end of the incremental track.
What resolution and accuracy does the MINISCALE PLUS system offer? //
The MINISCALE PLUS system offers a standard resolution of 0.1 μm, with optional resolutions of 1 μm or 10 μm. At a resolution of 0.1 μm, the system guarantees a unidirectional accuracy of ±0.1 μm and a bidirectional accuracy of ±0.2 μm.
What output signals does the MINISCALE PLUS system provide? //
The system offers two types of output signals: an analog variant (1 Vpp at 120 Ω) and a digital variant (TTL, compliant with RS 422 standard).
How far can the interface be placed from the MINISCALE PLUS sensor? //
If the interface module cannot be placed directly at the sensor, an extension set can be used. A flexible flat cable (FFC) is used between the sensor and the interface module, available in lengths of 250 mm, 400 mm, or 600 mm. An adapter board is supplied with the extension cable.
Dimensional scale pitch 100 μm max. length 1000 mm (the maximum length depends in the width of the respective rail) Coefficient of expansion 11.7 x 10-6K-1
Rail width in mm 7, 9, 12, 15 and 14, 18, 24, 42 accuracy classes G1 preload classification V1 max. length 1000 mm (the maximum length depends in the width of the respective rail)
Speed 5 m/s analog 3.2 m/s digital
Acceleration max. 300 m/s² (30 g)
Supply voltage 5 V DC +/- 5 % @70 mA
Output signal Analog: 1 Vpp (at 120 Ω) Digital: TTL in accordance with RS 422 standard
Sensor interface flexible PCB with 9-pin ZIF-connector (0.5 mm grating pitch). Total length 75 mm, permissible bending radius > 2 mm
Interface module Interface module with D-Sub 9 connector
RoHS compatible yes
EMV corresponding to standard EN 61000-6
Environmental influences operating temperature: -40° to 80° C (-40° to 176° F) storage temperature: -40° to 100° C (-40° to 212° F) humidity: 10 % - 70 % (non-condensing) vacuum: on request clean room: clean room classification ISO 7 or ISO 6 (acc. to ISO 14644-1) elec. charging: ESD-protection required
Integrated digital and analog distance measuring system (with rollers or balls)
Digital and analog measuring systems enable precise linear motion and maintain the tightest tolerances
MINI-X - Product catalog
MINIRAIL miniature profile linear guideway / MINISCALE PLUS integrated linear measuring system / MINISLIDE micro-frictionless tableDownload now
MINISCALE PLUS mounting instruction
The unique miniature guideway with integrated measuring system and a resolution of 0.1 μmDownload now
Article/Example of application
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