New linear position and angular position motion sensors now available

ZF’s latest generation of linear and angular position sensors are now available, providing users with improved levels of efficiency. Based on a modular system, the sensor is available as an ANG-version for angular position measurements or as a LIN-version for linear position measurements. The series adds to the company’s existing range of angular position sensors while the new linear position sensor opens up many new market areas for their customers. Typical applications for the new range of sensors include hydraulic valves, hydraulic controls, electric drives, pneumatic controls, gear selection/shifting position, ride height and level position detection, throttle valve and pedal position and steering wheel position and may also be used as a zero-contact encoder alternative. Both series sensors are non-contact linear position sensors with one or two independent outputs. The sensors operate through the use of Hall Effect technology with magnetic fields generated by permanent magnets. They provide a linear change in voltage output (ratiometric to the input voltage) corresponding to a linear displacement of the actuator magnet. The LIN-sensor includes an actuator magnet which is specifically paired to the sensor and is required to assure proper operation. Other magnets may yield less than optimal performance. Both sensor types offer 12 Bit resolution, IP68 protection ensuring reliable performance in harsh environments and they comply with industrial and automotive EMC/EMI directives. Both sensors are RoHS Compliant and suitable for wide air gap applications. The LIN-series can measure a range of up to 45mm, while the ANG series provide a programmable measuring range from 0 degrees to 360 degrees. The high quality of the components used ensures both sensors provide an overall accuracy of ±2% full scale and a linearity of the output signal with ±1% full scale. Custom programming is available for range, slope and PWM output allowing sensors to be supplied to meet individual requirements. The sensor design has no mechanical interface eliminating wear or jamming. The compact size of the series requires less mounting space than other sensors with a similar performance and the very flat design, mounting height of just 6.5mm simplifies design of both linear and angular position sensing.