Scanning for Ideas: Linear Actuators Measure Their Own Force
The GSX line of linear actuators from Exlar Corp., Chanhassen, Minn.
(
exlar.com), can now carry an optional built-in force sensor.
This
eliminates the extra wiring, linkages, and alignment that goes with
placing an add-on sensor between the actuator and workpiece. The
sensor, a strain-gage load cell, lets users get electronic data on
how much force the actuator is applying. Versions of the
GSX30, 40, 50, and 60 models (and I Series 30 and 40
models) also have a separate connector that links
to an external conditioner/amplifier needed
to excite the sensor. The sensor has ±1%
linearity and ±0.5% repeatability and
hysteresis.