Introducing the RESOLUTE™ FS encoder

The RESOLUTE FS encoder is a true absolute encoder system designed to provide position feedback for the motion control of linear and rotary axes. It consists of three elements: a precision graduated scale, an electro-optical readhead and a compatible interface. The RESOLUTE FS readhead is available with RELA ZeroMet™ high-accuracy spar scale, RSLA stainless-steel spar scale, RTLA tape scale, RESA rotary scale or REXA high-accuracy rotary scale. The REXA ring can also be used with a dual input version of Renishaw's DRIVE-CLiQ interface, designed for use with two RESOLUTE readheads, to compensate for the effect of bearing runout by elimination of all ‘odd' error harmonics including eccentricity.

RESOLUTE series encoders capture a 1-dimentional image of a barcode-like pattern on the scale and perform a type of image processing in order to extract position data. The position calculated by the RESOLUTE FS encoder is divided into two parts: a coarse position and a fine position in-between the scale period (≤30 µm). First, the encoder determines these values based on the scale data alone. A secondary coarse position is then determined independently by a position checking algorithm*, wherein the two most recent good readings are extrapolated in time to find the current position. If the measured coarse reading and the extrapolated values differ by more than half the scale period, then an error counter is incremented. Once the error counter reaches five, an error flag is sent to the controller which stops the machine. The RESOLUTE FS encoder variant also double checks the above process and includes a position validation check in order to satisfy IEC 61508. Position data is sent from the readhead via a custom output protocol and the position validation check confirms that the data arriving at the interface agrees with the values that have been internally generated in the readhead.

RESOLUTE FS scales have also been designed to minimise positional disturbance during operation. As a result, linear scales are applied to machine substrates with adhesive and rotary scales are installed in strict compliance with the installation instructions in the RESOLUTE FS installation guide and safety manual (L-9796-9134). Mounting instructions for the encoder readhead also specify the recommended screw type and a thread locking compound. These measures combine to ensure the correct reporting of position at all times.

Power drive system (PDS) use as defined by IEC 61800-5-2:2016

Encoders are essential for the correct operation of many obligatory safety functions in CNC machine tool applications and others where operators risk personal injury from heavy machinery. RESOLUTE FS encoders can be integrated into the safety control systems of adjustable-speed Power Drive Systems (Safety Related) – PDS (SR)s – to support the following safety functions:

• Safe stop 1 (SS1)
• Safe stop 2 (SS2)
• Safe operating stop (SOS)
• Safe limited acceleration (SLA)
• Safe acceleration range (SAR)
• Safe limited speed (SLS)
• Safe speed range (SSR)
• Safely limited position (SLP)
• Safely limited increment (SLI)
• Safe direction (SDI)
• Safe brake control (SBC)
• Safe cam (SCA)
• Safe speed monitor (SSM)

FANUC robotic arm (Image © FANUC)

In addition to enhanced safety, end-users also benefit from increased machine productivity and availability as they will no longer need to power down machinery whenever there is direct human interaction.

Robot control safety systems that require ISO 13849:2015

RESOLUTE FS encoders can also be integrated into PLd rated safety control systems of the robot types defined by the following standards:

• Personal care robots against ISO 13482:2014

Robots that perform basic household tasks, personal assistance and transportation.

• Industrial robots against ISO 10218-1:2011

Robots that operate in an industrial environment, for example robotic arms in automotive manufacturing.

• Service robots against ISO 18646-1:2016

Robots that perform useful tasks for humans or equipment excluding industrial automation applications.

• Medical robots – Please contact your local Renishaw salesman to discuss.

Robots that are applied in the medical sciences. They include, but are not limited to, surgical robots. A potential application could be Renishaw's neuromate® stereotactic robot.

RESOLUTE FS encoder compliance is as follows:

IS0 13849:2015

• PL = d
• Category = 3
• Mean-Time to Dangerous Failure (MTTF_D)
• • Siemens DRIVE-CLiQ system = 87 years
• Diagnostic Coverage (DC) = 90% / Medium

IEC 61508:2010 and IEC 61800-5-2:2007

• SIL = 2
• Probability of Dangerous Failure per Hour (PFH)
• • Siemens DRIVE-CLiQ system = 1.33E-07
• Demand mode = continuous
• Lifetime = 20 years