Wachendorff Automation GmbH & Co.KG, a leading developer and manufacturer of encoders based in Germany, has revolutionized the machine development process with their latest innovation. By leveraging Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, the company has eliminated the need for cumbersome cables and adapter boxes when configuring sensors. Instead, they have developed the world’s first incremental encoder that can be individually configured using a smartphone, making the process simpler and more efficient.
Traditionally, adjusting sensors during machine development involved selecting the right adaptors, tools, and parameterization boxes, which often led to challenges and frustrations. Additionally, the unavailability of specific cables would hinder the configuration process. In response to these issues, Wachendorff Automation has incorporated NFC as the configuration interface in their new incremental encoder.
By utilizing NFC, a contactless and powerless transmission technology, users can now create and save individual sensor configurations directly on a smartphone application. These configurations can then be easily uploaded to the encoder, enabling seamless customization. The WDGN series of encoders boasts specially developed sensor technology that ensures reliable and high pulse rates, while also offering flexibility to set any pulse rate down to one pulse per revolution. With up to 16384 pulses per revolution and a compact design starting from 36 mm, these encoders provide highly accurate measurements in limited installation spaces.
The flexibility of parameter settings via the smartphone app empowers customers to configure the device on-site, promoting greater flexibility in machine development and commissioning. It enables testing with different controllers or frequency converters, allowing for versatile evaluation. Moreover, the easy exchange of devices on the machine contributes to reduced storage and transport costs. With the ability to store various encoder configurations directly in the application, ordering errors are minimized, streamlining the overall process.
To ensure suitability for harsh industrial conditions, NFC technology has been successfully adapted for the encoder series, which includes shaft encoders and hollow shaft encoders. The encoders offer a range of features such as reverse polarity and short-circuit protection, as well as robust stainless-steel housings with IP67 and IP69K protection. With resistance to vibration and shock, along with an operating temperature range of -40°C to 85°C, these encoders are built to withstand demanding industrial environments. The new alloy used for the cover enhances magnetic shielding and supports environmentally friendly production.
Data transmission security is a top priority, with encrypted communication and password-protected configuration. Multiple memories within the encoder ensure data integrity and allow for easy deployment even when the device is switched off. Compared to Bluetooth and WLAN, NFC’s shorter range and near-field communication provide increased security and reduced interference during operation.
Wachendorff Automation has conducted extensive testing and optimization of the antenna design to ensure reliable transmission over the maximum distance. The compact circuit board layout and secure connections further enhance the mechanical robustness of the encoders.
The newly developed WDGN series offers two versions: Basic and Advanced. The Basic version includes standard incremental encoder channels (A, B, N) and their inverted counterparts, while the Advanced version allows independent configuration of four channels. With this innovative NFC-enabled encoder, Wachendorff Automation aims to provide customers with new options for their encoder configurations, simplifying the process, saving costs, and increasing sustainability.
