Reliable measurement of process forces is indispensable in many applications. Strain sensors are an elegant way to install the measurement technology outside the working area and overload-proof. In order to be able to measure even tiny forces reliably, X-Sensors has specially developed a strain transducer that provides a so-called “zoom function”. This makes it possible to view specific measurement areas during the machining cycle with increased resolution..
The zoom function makes it possible to achieve an increased signal amplification with a resolution increased by up to two times within a certain measuring range. Expressed in numbers this means: The standard measuring range is 0…320 µm/m, where 0 µm/m corresponds to an output signal of 0 V and 320 µm/m to an output signal of 10 V. The resolution would be 0.5 µm/m. The resolution would be 0.5 µm/m. If the zoom function is activated during the process by means of an external signal, 40 µm/m already correspond to an output signal of 10 V. This corresponds to an additional signal amplification. This corresponds to an additional signal amplification by a factor of 8! The resolution itself increases by a factor of five to 0.1 µm/m.
By means of this amplification, smallest strains in the range of 0…40 µm/m can be measured without interference levels covering the actual useful signal. The signal processing is realized by an analog circuit, i.e. the signal path is analog throughout. This means that there are no delay times between input and output signal.
The adjacent diagram illustrates the output signal as a function of the range selector. The signal amplification within the measuring range from 0 to 40 µm/m is clearly visible. This signal amplification is only present when the input of the range selector is pulled to 0 V.
The zoom function is activated via a so-called “range selector”. If this is connected to 24 V, the nominal measuring range is activated. If this input is pulled to 0 V, the zoom function is activated automatically. A reset input for a zero point adjustment or zero point tare is available for both measuring modes. (Control connection 6)
Switching between the two measuring ranges too late has no negative effect on the measuring signal or the sensor. That means as long as the zoom function is activated, the output signal remains at 10 V for strains above 40 µm/m. However, the zoom function can be exited at any time, subsequently the correct measured value is displayed.
The strain transducers from X-Sensors are available in different designs. All strain sensors are characterized by high accuracy and an analog signal path, which enables effective measurement and control of process parameters. Furthermore, the common industrial signals of 0-10 V and 4-20 mA are available as output signals.
The respective product families differ in terms of accuracy, contact area, mounting type and measuring range. We will be happy to advise you on the selection of the appropriate extensometer. Please contact us!
