インクリメンタルロータリエンコーダとは ガイド

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発売日: 9月 23, 2025 読書時間: 3 議事録

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An インクリメンタルロータリーエンコーダ is a sensor that detects the rotation of a shaft or axle and converts it into an electrical signal. It is widely used in industrial automation, robotics, and many other applications to provide precise position, speed, and direction feedback. Understanding the incremental rotary encoder is crucial for selecting the right encoder for your machinery or project.

Incremental Rotary Encoder Definition and Basic Principle

An incremental rotary encoder produces a series of electrical pulses as the encoder shaft rotates. These pulses correspond to increments of rotation and do not provide an absolute position but rather changes from a reference point. The encoder typically includes a disk with evenly spaced slots and a sensor that detects these slots as light or magnetic signals.

Key points include:

• The basic output signals are channels A and B, which produce square waves offset by 90 degrees (quadrature), allowing determination of direction.
• A reference channel, often called channel Z, provides a zero or home position pulse once per revolution.
• Incremental encoders can be optical, magnetic, or mechanical based on the sensing method.

特徴	説明
Signal Output	Channels A, B (quadrature), and Z (index)
出力タイプ	Pulse signals representing rotation increments
Position Information	Relative position (incremental)
Direction Detection	Based on phase difference between A & B

Incremental vs Absolute Rotary Encoder

Unlike an absolute rotary encoder, which provides a unique position value at every point in a full rotation, an incremental encoder only indicates movement increment from its last position. Absolute encoders store position from power up, while incremental ones require a reference point.

特徴	インクリメンタルエンコーダ	アブソリュート・エンコーダ
Position Reference	Relative to a starting point	Absolute position at all times
Power Loss	Position lost without a reference pulse	Position retained after power loss
Complexity	Simpler design	More complex electronics
コスト	Generally cheaper	Typically more expensive

Applications of Incremental Rotary Encoder

Incremental rotary encoders are versatile and used in various fields:

• Industrial automation: Monitoring speed and position in CNC machines, conveyor belts, and robotics.
• Automotive: Steering wheel position sensing and throttle control.
• Consumer electronics: Volume and control knobs.
• Medical equipment: Precise positioning in imaging devices.

Key Technical Specifications

Understanding key parameters will help in choosing the right encoder for your application:

パラメータ	説明
Resolution (PPR)	Pulses per revolution, determines precision
Maximum Speed	Highest allowable shaft rotational speed
Output Signal Type	Voltage level and waveform type (TTL, etc.)
シャフト径	Physical size to fit the device
保護等級	Resistance to dust, moisture (IP ratings)

Choosing the Right Incremental Rotary Encoder

Consider the following when selecting:

1. Required resolution and accuracy for your application.
2. Shaft size compatibility.
3. Environmental factors like temperature and dust (choose IP-rated encoders if needed).
4. Electrical output type matching your control system.
5. Budget constraints balanced with needed features.

Future Trends and Market Outlook

With Industry 4.0, smart incremental encoder are gaining traction, offering higher resolution and integration with IoT for predictive maintenance. The demand is expected to rise in robotics, automotive, and smart manufacturing sectors.

Incremental rotary encoder are fundamental components in modern industrial and electronic applications. They offer reliable, cost-effective solutions for rotary position and speed feedback. Understanding their operating principles, differences from absolute encoders, and selecting the right specifications ensures optimal performance. If you need tailored rotary encoder solutions, feel free to reach out for expert advice and customized products.

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