Economic mag strip reader for digital measurement

Citation

(2000), "Economic mag strip reader for digital measurement", Sensor Review, Vol. 20 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.2000.08720aad.014

Economic mag strip reader for digital measurement

Keyword Measurement

A new low cost magnetic strip reader, together with an associated cover profile has been added to the Item range of equipment. These are available from Machine Building Systems Ltd and can be used to construct customised digital measuring systems (see Plate 13).

Plate 13 Economic mag strip reader for digital measurement

Linear encoded magnetic tape can be incorporated into standard item line eight profile with the new magnetic strip cover profile. This is a purpose designed anodised aluminium extrusion, which is used in conjunction with a black nitrile rubber clamping cord to positively retain the tape while providing a high level of protection against wear and accidental damage. When assembled, the tape and cover profile is simply pressed into the standard longitudinal groove of the line eight profile. This provides a neat, clean, unobtrusive installation for the tape which is not affected by soiling, temperature changes or even magnetic interference.

A much wider range of functions can be achieved with industry standard 5mm wide tape used with the new cover profile for incorporation into a manufacturing or production machine. Tape can be encoded as required to provide signalling, product selection, labelling and other production requirements by using appropriate reading heads, tripping mechanisms and electronic interfaces.

The magnetic strip reader is supplied in a neat housing which can be easily set up utilising conventional Item bearing slides and guide systems to provide a smooth transitional movement over the encoded magnetic tape. The unit is battery powered, so there are no trailing cables, resulting in a neat and unobtrusive installation. This also reduces capitalisation by eliminating the need for mains power sources and cable chains etc. The housing incorporates push buttons for parameter set, selection and zero functions, together with single digit incrementation, giving linear accuracy of up to 0.1mm. The housing also incorporates a highly visible digital display, and can be supplied with a carriage positional locking mechanism and a handle for ease of movement. A zero setting feature enables step and repeat operations, e.g. cutting components to length, to be accurately and quickly undertaken.

The magnetic strip cover profile, together with associated clamping cord, is available in lengths up to 2 metres. Linear measuring systems of virtually any length can be quickly and economically constructed to suit particular installation requirements. The linear encoded magnetic tape can be supplied in lengths up to 6 metres and is suitable for operation at temperatures from 0° to +50°C.

Further information is available from: Machine Building Systems Ltd, Heage Road Industrial Estate, Ripley, Derbyshire DE5 3GH. Tel: +44 (0) 1773 749330; Fax: +44 (0) 1773 749560; E-mail: sales@mbsitemco.uk