Encoder versus Resolver

Encoder versus Resolver Encoder is an optical device consisting of a translucent disk, scored with lines and 2 sets of LED and Photo Diode, each time a mark passes between the optical link, it is broken generating a signal, the signals are 90=B0 apart, generating the data for the A/B channels of the encoder. There is usually a Z mark once a rev as well. Usually the encoder is mounted on the back of the motor. Resolver is a magnetic device consisting of 2 static coils 90=B0 apart and one rotating one. The rotating coil is fed with a sinusoidal current, and the induced current in the static coils are measured. The relative intensities of the signals gives you the position. Usually the resolver is part of the motor. The encoder is used for most applications except the following: 1) Hard radiation (fogs the translucent disk) 2) Very high accelerations (damages the coupling) 3) Very high vibrations (damages the coupling, vibrates the disk) 4) Very high temperatures (damages the disk) 5) Very high resolution (optical resolution) The resolver is not used in the following cases: 1) Cost factor 2) High speed applications (the lag through the position decoder means loss of accuracy)

Resolvers and Encoders are vastly different though they serve the same purpose in many applications. In rotary applications, both of them are used to sense the speed, direction and position of a rotating shaft. They function as transducers by transforming mechanical motion into electronic information. This electronic information is feedback to electronic devices controlling the mechanical motion. Feedback is the vital link that closes the control system loop to improve the motion system performance. For many years now, the dominant trend in feedback devices has been away from contacting toward non-contacting methods. The wear associated with contacting brushes and wipers reduces longevity and reliability. A brushless resolver uses a second set of rotor and stator coils called the transformer to induce rotor voltage across an air gap. Optical encoders use a rotating shutter to interrupt a beam of light across an air gap between a light source and a photodetector.

Comparison Resolver - Encoder

Resolver
Angle measurement Absolute resolution Incremental resolution Accuracy (arc minutes) Electronic interface Noise immunity Output signal Construction materials Weight Inertia Longevity Shock/vibration Temperature Contamination Implementation Interchangeability Retrofit/upgrade Cost absolute 16 bits N/A 4 to 40 R/D converter sensitive analog robust heavy high very high rugged +150 C immune complex limited fixed higher

Encoder
absolute or incremental 13 bits 10,000 lines/revolution .25 to 6 direct best analog or digital fragile lighter low high limited +100 C vulnerable simple vast open less