Absolute Encoders
The Nikon absolute encoders incorporate proprietary Nikon optical and M-sequence absolute pattern technologies to combine high reliability with compact dimensions. The absolute encoders have won widespread acclaim as standard products that can detect absolute values of rotational displacement in industrial robots and machine tools for automotive production lines.
Absolute Encoders featuring reliability recognized by Robot Manufacturers
Offering refined accuracy and reliability, Nikon’s absolute encoders serve as the eyes of servo motors in wide-ranging fields, including industrial robots, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and machine tools. Boasting the No.1 share in Japan with over 12 million units shipped, Nikon’s absolute encoders help support advancements at manufacturing sites.
Nikon developed the compact, high-performance M-sequence one-track absolute pattern in the 1990s, drawing on technology and expertise cultivated since the 1970s. In the 2000s, Nikon developed the world’s first reflective optical absolute encoder. Nikon seeks to provide encoders that robot manufacturers demand.
High-accuracy and compact design based on reflective optics
High-accuracy position detection with 27 bit high resolution using optical system
Nikon drew on its proprietary light utilization technology and precision technology cultivated through cameras and semiconductor exposure equipment to develop a reflective optical type and M-sequence one-track absolute pattern as an alternative to conventional transmissive encoders. In addition to a thin, compact design, Nikon’s absolute encoders offer precise position detection with maximum 27 bit (single-turn) and maximum 16 bit (multi-turn) high resolution.
In response to changes in relative position between the motor and encoder while the motor is operating, the encoders will flexibly accommodate variations in the gap between the LED, photodetector, and disk to allow continuously accurate position detection. Nikon’s absolute encoders are also less susceptible to magnetic fields and electromagnetic noise, providing high reliability and durability.
M-sequence one-track absolute pattern
In response to market demand for both compact dimensions and reliability, Nikon adopted an M-sequence pattern for the absolute encoder’s track pattern. With the M-sequence, a single one-track pattern creates absolute value data. This is a unique proprietary technique that has reduced size and increased reliability, improvements not possible with the gray code pattern commonly used in conventional absolute encoders. The Nikon M-sequence pattern can also output full absolute data immediately after the main power is turned on.
Combining High Resolution with Response Speed that meets High-Speed Rotation
Nikon‘s absolute encoder support high-speed rotation up to 8,000 min-1. Encoders compatible with high-speed rotation are essential for speeding up production lines and improving equipment performance. Reliable position detection is achieved in the field, where speed is essential.
World-Leading Compact Design
Among the world’s smallest absolute encoders, the ML51 offers performance equal to the previous M50 Series (⌀35 mm) in a body measuring just 14 mm square. It is used not just in FA and industrial robots but in the medical field, capitalizing on its compact dimensions and high precision. It offers precise position control. In addition to installation in surgical support robots, it is expected to see an expanding role in sensory feedback equipment to transmit the sense of touch from the robot tip to the doctor’s fingertips during surgery.
It is used in a wide range of applications, including wafer transfer in semiconductor manufacturing equipment, high-precision positioning in machine tools, and manipulator control in medical robots. Other likely future applications include drive control in humanoid robots.
Reliable High Quality Supporting Manufacturing
Smart Control Using Proprietary “A-format®” Communication
The A-format® communication protocol used between the servo driver and encoder allows high-accuracy, high-speed control with reduced wiring. Up to eight units can be connected using a bus connection, reducing cabling and equipment dimensions and improving design flexibility. Moreover, high-speed communication up to 16 Mbps allows smooth and accurate robot motion control, making it ideal for precision machining and high-speed production.
Reliable High Quality
Minimizes product quality variations through consistent in-house production at automated domestic factories. Ensures a consistent supply of high-quality products. Products are subjected to diverse tests (temperature environment, noise, shock, limit tests, etc.) based on Nikon’s own rigorous evaluation standards in the pursuit of even higher reliability and quality.
International Functional Safety Standard Compliance
The encoder complies with functional safety certification requirements (SIL3, PLe, Cat3). In recent years, industrial robots and automation equipment have grown increasingly diverse and advanced, requiring safety and compliance with international standards. Nikon draws on its experience and achievements in developing functional safety encoders since the 2000s to support users in obtaining safety standard certification.
High Durability Even in Harsh Environments
The encoders use non-contact optical reflection detection to deliver outstanding resistance to magnetic and electromagnetic noise. Certain models are also capable of withstanding high and low temperatures and dustproof and waterproof performance. Battery-free encoders use an internal power supply with outstanding temperature resistance, extending the operating range to -20°C to +105°C. Coupled types provide IP67 rated dustproof and waterproof protection.
Modular Design for High Design Flexibility
Encoders are provided as individual components using a modular configuration for product integration. This increases flexibility in design and assembly and helps reduce product dimensions and the number of parts.
Easy Assembly
An extensive product lineup is available to meet broad-ranging requirements. You can select optimal products to suit applications, including shaft type that require no adjustment after assembly and modular types ideal for miniaturization. To ensure comfortable usability, products are designed for ease of installation and signal adjustment.
Hassle-free, Maintenance-free
Maintenance-free operation without an external battery
Requires no external battery; reflective optics allow multi-turn detection for accurate retention of position information, even when the power is turned off. The internal power supply uses all-solid-state batteries with outstanding safety and stability, and automatic recharging during normal operation enables long-term stable performance.
Predictive Maintenance for Reduced Risk of Sudden Shutdown
The MAR-M700 Series features redundant design with two sets of light-emitting and receiving elements to prevent system shutdown if one should fail. The predictive maintenance function issues alarms for potential failure signs, allowing maintenance to be performed at the optimal timing.
Angle Accuracy Self-Correction Function
The MAR-M700 Series features automated precision adjustment after motor assembly, allowing adjustment to be completed in approximately 10 seconds while maintaining high accuracy. Two sets of Silicon photodiode and LEDs are used to correct angular errors automatically during motor assembly.
Inquiries
- Nikon Corporation
3rd Sales Section, Customer Engagement Department, Sales Sector, Industrial Solutions Business Unit - 1-5-20, Nishioi, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo 140-8601, Japan
Tel: +81-3-6743-5634
Fax: +81-3-6410-7252