I am seeking some input from individuals who utilize encoders. It is commonly accepted that a typical quadrature encoder will have Output A leading Output B in phase when rotating in a clockwise direction. However, determining what is considered "clockwise" can be a bit confusing. This often depends on which end of the shaft you are looking at. I am specifically concerned with a standard solid-shaft encoder, such as the SICK DFS25 series. According to the IEC standard (IEC 60034-8), clockwise is defined as the direction in which an electric motor spins when viewed from the load side, with the output shaft facing the observer. However, despite encoders having a shaft like a motor, they are actually the driven device. This raises the question of whether the standard direction for "clockwise" should be considered from the opposite side of the device. This topic has become relevant as I am attempting to replace an old DRS26 encoder with a modern DFS25A model. The modern encoders offer programmable phase direction, with instructions from the machine builder to set the direction as "A leads B at CCW." In contrast, the old encoders simply "follow the standard," leaving some uncertainty regarding what the standard actually is. Given the complexity of swapping pins with these particular connectors, which are difficult to obtain, I want to ensure that I make the correct choice on my first attempt.
I was unfamiliar with a standard protocol. What could happen if the outputs of Ender's A+A- are linked to the motion controllers' B+B- inputs?
When it comes to electro motors, the direction of rotation is typically observed from the end of the shaft. Is the same principle applicable to encoders as well? This visual representation suggests that it might be.
When determining the orientation of encoders, it is common to assume it is from the shaft end. This is because encoders are frequently mounted on the rear of a motor, making it logical to define their positioning in alignment with the motor.
According to data sheets from Sick and Rockwell, the term "CW" is determined by observing from the end of the shaft. This information is crucial for understanding the orientation and functionality of various products.
The information was taken from an IFM manual. However, to further complicate matters, the manual does not specify whether the graph should be read from the left or the right. This ambiguity can make interpreting the data challenging.
You've raised a really valid and intriguing point. When it comes to determining the 'clockwise' direction, particularly in encoders, it can indeed get a bit confusing. However, from my experience, the standard is typically seen from the viewing point. The IEC standard you mentioned treats the encoder like a motor and views it from the load side. In most practical scenarios, 'clockwise' of encoders aligns with the IEC 60034-8, regardless of it being a driven device rather than a driving one. But since you're going for the programmable DFS25A, where you have the freedom of setting the phase direction, it would serve best if it aligns with the needs of the architecture into which you are incorporating the encoder. Hope this helps you in your endeavor. Remember, this is a one-time hustle and will ease your task once correctly established. Good luck!
You've brought up an interesting point regarding the perspective of rotation and I can understand how it can be confusing. My suggestion would be to get clarification directly from the manufacturer or the machine builder. Alternatively, it sometimes helps to reference rotary encoders as they show the direction of rotation and phase on the mechanical drawing. For encoders like the DFS25A, you should be able to program the phase either way (A lead B for CW or CCW) depending on how you'd like to define your rotation. Nonetheless, asking the machine builder about their specific instructions to set the direction as "A leads B at CCW" could help clear up any uncertainty. It is definitely wise to want to get it right the first time given the trouble with swapping pins.
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Answer: Answer: Clockwise direction for a quadrature encoder is typically defined as the direction in which Output A leads Output B in phase when rotating.
Answer: Answer: The IEC standard (IEC 60034-8) defines clockwise direction for an electric motor as the direction in which the motor spins when viewed from the load side, with the output shaft facing the observer.
Answer: Answer: Modern encoders like the SICK DFS25A offer programmable phase direction, with instructions often specifying to set the direction as "A leads B at CCW" (Counter-Clockwise).
Answer: Answer: The discussion raises the question of whether the standard direction for "clockwise" should be considered from the opposite side of the device, as encoders are the driven devices despite having a shaft similar to a motor.
Answer: Answer: To ensure making the correct choice when swapping pins
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