20240027235. ROTARY ENCODER simplified abstract (RENISHAW PLC)

ROTARY ENCODER

Organization Name

RENISHAW PLC

Inventor(s)

James Reynolds Henshaw of Stroud (GB)

Matthew Damian Harrison of Bristol (GB)

Finlay Jonathan Evans of Malmesbury (GB)

ROTARY ENCODER - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 20240027235 titled 'ROTARY ENCODER

Simplified Explanation

The abstract describes a method for mounting a rotary scale member on a part using force-fitting and flexures. The flexures engage with the part and form a friction fit, allowing the rotary scale member to self-locate at an initial radial location. The method also involves tweaking the radial location of the body of the rotary scale member to a new radial location.

• The rotary scale member has a body with position features defining a scale.
• At least one mounting flexure is configured to engage the part.
• The rotary scale member and the part are force-fitted together, displacing the flexure and causing it to engage with the part.
• The flexure forms a friction fit with the part, allowing the rotary scale member to self-locate at an initial default radial location.
• The radial location of the body of the rotary scale member can be adjusted to a new radial location.

Potential Applications:

• This method can be used in various industries where rotary scale members are required, such as manufacturing, robotics, and automation.
• It can be applied in the assembly of precision instruments, machinery, and equipment that require accurate position sensing.

Problems Solved:

• The method provides a reliable and secure mounting solution for rotary scale members, ensuring accurate positioning and preventing unwanted movement.
• It eliminates the need for complex mounting mechanisms or adhesives, simplifying the assembly process.

Benefits:

• The force-fitting and flexure engagement create a friction fit, ensuring stability and preventing slippage or misalignment.
• The self-locating feature of the rotary scale member simplifies the assembly process and reduces the chances of human error.
• The ability to tweak the radial location allows for fine adjustments and precise positioning of the rotary scale member.

Original Abstract Submitted

a method of mounting a rotary scale member on a part, the rotary scale member including a body on which a series of position features defining a scale is provided, and at least one mounting flexure configured to engage the part, the method including: force-fitting the rotary scale member and the part together, whereby the at least one flexure is displaced by the part and thereby urged via a radial reaction force into engagement with the part so as to form a friction fit with the part such that the body of the rotary scale member self-locates at an initial default radial location with respect to the part; and tweaking the radial location of the body relative to the part away from its initial default radial location to a new radial location.