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  • Offer Profile
  • Global success is not random
    Today, SIKO's robust and innovative measurement technology is being applied globally in industry and mechanical engineering.
    Five subsidiaries and approximately 60 representations ensure direct contact and technical support for our customers on a national and international scale. Sales engineers and service technicians support OEM customers as well as users on-site with competent consulting and customer service in their own languages.
Product Portfolio
  • PositionLine: Position Indicators

  • The invention of the mechanical-digital position indicator
    SIKO is the inventor of the SIKO counter and a global market leader in the field of spindle position indicators and handwheels with position indicators. As a consistent further development, SIKO is transforming the mechanical position indicators and handwheels that are so flexible in use into modern-day generations of programmable electronic spindle indicators that are also compatible with bus-controlled use.

    Wide array of position indicators for industry and mechanical engineering applications
    PositionLine is a tried-and-tested product family that has grown to accommodate the needs of users. The SIKO position sensors are used in a wide range of different applications, for example format adjustment on packaging machines, gage positioning in paper-processing machines and tool positioning on woodworking or metalworking machines. Other typical areas in which the SIKO position indicators can be used include reproducible process settings, workpiece positioning for special machine construction or format adjustments on glassworking machines.

    Mechanical position indicators
    One special aspect is the mechanical control knobs, which combine the miniaturized handwheel technology with the gear-supported, mechanical digital position indicators in orange. These controls can be operated in any kind of installation situation thanks to the affixing system, which is based on a torque support.

    Electronic position indicators
    For automation, the electronic spindle positioning systems from SIKO offer additional benefits compared with mechanical position indicators. Parameters such as spindle pitch, count direction or decimal points are freely programmable. Depending on the model, the position values can be transferred to a control unit via an interface for further processing.

    Fieldbus and Ethernet communication
    Integration in standardized industrial fieldbus systems or Ethernet networks such as Profibus-DP, Profinet-IO, EtherCAT, Ethernet/IP or CANopen is possible with the help of interface converters. The SIKO spindle position indicators, setpoint displays and linear sensors for slide adjustments are then a key component of monitored format adjustment to raise the efficiency of production machines.

    Clamping plates for arresting position indicators
    Mechanical and pneumatic clamping plates round off the SIKO PositionLine portfolio. They serve to lock a spindle in its position once it has been positioned correctly, thus preventing any unwanted shifting during the production process.
      • Mechanical digital position indicators

      • Reasonably priced and proven over decades
        With its mechanical digital displays, or DA for short, SIKO offers an original and sophisticated product line. The highly customizable, functional concept is known the world over, and its interplay of variable gear ratios and counters that can be configured on a modular basis is unique. The position indicators from the DA range constitute a further development of analog handwheel technology. However, the “Nonius’’, a type of precision measuring gage on handwheel indicators, can only display the values of one spindle revolution. But what if several revolutions have to be documented?

        Benefits
        • High service life thanks to continuous development
        • Clear and precisely controllable digital display values
        • Modifiable displays thanks to custom-made transformation ratios
        • Problem-free and cost-efficient retrofittability
        • Easy mounting thanks to hollow shaft snap-on technique
      • Electronic digital position indicators

      • Wide array of position indicators for spindles and axes
        Mechanical position indicators are already used on many axes or spindles to display position values. From a formal perspective, Electronic digital position indicators are a logical further development of their mechanical counterparts. Both variants of the position indicators (mechanical or electronic) belong to the product line PositionLine: Position indicators. Thanks to comparable external dimensions and the trusted attachment principle on the shaft, it only takes a few minutes to convert the mechanical spindle display to a spindle positioning system that can be programmed electronically.

        Benefits
        • Freely programmable display values (spindle pitch, sense of rotation and decimal place)
        • Linear or angular mode
        • Reset function
        • Display of positive and negative values
        • High display accuracy
        • Easy battery change Mechanically compatible with mechanical position indicators
      • Control knobs

      • Compact control knobs enable precise positioning
        Since their market launch a few years ago, mechanical control knobs from SIKO (called DKs) with their integrated measuring system have been successfully conquering many new areas. Why? The answer is at your fingertips, because DKs are filigree control knobs suitable for industrial use with a well thought through combination of a Handwheel and mechanical digital position indicator

        Benefits
        • Long service life thanks to consistent further development of the technology and application-oriented selection of materials
        • Very good price-performance ratio
        • Clear and precisely controllable digital or analog display values
        • Modifiable displays thanks to custom-made transformation ratios
        • Any mounting position
        • Cost-efficient retrofittability
        • Easy mounting thanks to hollow shaft snap-on technique
        • Special scales for analog knobs
      • Mechanical analog position indicators

      • Analog position indicators are available in a vast choice of variants
        Analog position indicators from SIKO serve for the display of position values on a pointer scale. These indicators – also referred to as dials – are available in various sizes with a scale diameter of 50 to 80, so that the scaling and visibility can be optimally adapted to the available space.

        Free choice of size, shape and materials
        A complete positioning unit always comprises a handwheel and a corresponding position indicator with an analog pointer scale - refer to the overview Mechanical analogue position indicators and handwheels.. SIKO offers a full range of handwheels in different sizes, forms and materials that are described in detail in the Handwheels product range. Various handles are also available for these handwheels for convenient positioning - refer to the accessories on the respective product pages.

        Analog position indicators have been in use in many branches of industry an applications since decades.
        Analog position indicators from SIKO are used for a wide range of industrial applications. They serve as position indicators for process settings in the chemical and pharmaceutical industry as well as for food processing and in breweries. SIKO dials are also used for format adjustment on printing machines, wood processing machines or tablet presses. These position indicators are also suitable for use on dosing pumps, bakery machines or grain and coffee mills for adjusting the respective process parameters.

        Customized scale design even with number of pieces = 1
        This wide range of applications is possible due to the flexible adaptability of the SIKO position indicators to the respective application requirements. Printing of the scales can also be customized to suit the specific application. Printing can also be customized individually for single units with regard to the scale itself, color, use of company logos and information texts.

        The flexible design of the position indicator is rounded off by different mechanical versions. There are dust-tight, water-tight and oil-filled versions available and the position indicators can be selected so that they ideally suit the ambient conditions for each application.

        Electronic position indicator
        Should the analogue position value indication be insufficient for specific applications, with the "electronic control knob DKE01" SIKO GmbH also supplies a battery-powered electronic digital position indicator for integration in a handwheel.
      • Handwheels

      • Handwheels with integrated analog position indicators
        The handwheels of the product range PositionLine: Position indicators are used in combination with analog position indicators for positioning adjustment spindles in industrial applications - also refer to “mechanical analog position indicators and handwheels". The handwheel serves as an adjustment element, whereby all SIKO handwheels are equipped with a corresponding cutout for mounting a position indicator.

        Material of the handwheel can be chosen
        SIKO supplies handwheels made of aluminum and reinforced plastic. The HG series in particular was designed for food related applications without corners where dirt can accumulate and with an optional stainless steel hub.

        Handwheels with a great variety of sizes
        The SIKO handwheels are available in different sizes with an external diameter from 56 – 200 mm so that an optimum compromise is possible between the required torque and available installation space. If the application demands an even smaller size, suitable devices are available in the Control knobs product range.

        Different handle designs for SIKO handwheels
        To make positioning as easy as possible for the operator, handles are available for most handwheels as ball, cylinder and folding handles – refer to the accessories on the respective product sheets. The star-wheel version (HST range) ensures comfortable handling and efficient wheel manipulation.

        Customized handwheel with a single piece
        The handwheel hub is customized to suit the respective application requirements. To this purpose SIKO has its own machines that can produce an individually designed handwheel hub, also as a single unit. Different hub bores, supplementary keyways or pin holes as well as hub threads are implemented to absorb axial and radial forces and reliably transfer the rotational motion.
      • Clamping Plates

      • Safe locking of the machine setting by means of clamping plates
        For a format change on production machines, spindles are set to suitable figures using mechanical or electronic position indicators from SIKO. To ensure fault-free production, it is advisable to secure these position values by means of a clamping device. This prevents unwanted movement of the spindle from its position due to vibration, external forces or simply incorrect operation by the machine operator. To this purpose the product range PositionLine: Position indicators offers different machine elements that are optimally designed for the respective application.

        Benefits
        • Enhanced process safety thanks to stable clamping
        • Reliable prevention of vibration
        • Robust metal design
        • Outer contour adjusted to SIKO position indicators
    • RotoLine: Rotary encoders

    • SIKO RotoLine – rotary encoders, geared potentiometers and displays
      SIKO has grouped its encoder and display product families under the RotoLine brand. Depending on the measurement principles used with their typical areas of application, this results in the following four product areas: incremental rotary encoders, absolute rotary encoders, geared potentiometers and displays.

      Rotary encoders: precise measuring technology with defined values
      SIKO’s extensive product portfolio allows for a variety of types that ranges from low-cost incremental encoders in miniature design with simpler mechanical fittings to sophisticated, high-resolution products such as absolute encoders – in casings made of plastic or of heavy-duty cast aluminum.

      Rotary encoders are the solution for a variety of measurement tasks
      In mechanical and plant engineering, SIKO rotary encoders are essential for measuring lengths, angles or rotation speeds. With a large number of designs and application-oriented specifications, rotary encoders provide the basis for robust measuring procedures for a vast range of different engineering solutions. Sitting on an axle or spindle, the encoders measure values as incremental or absolute signals. The measuring principle can be optical, magnetic or based on an electrical resistance (potentiometer). The information acquired in this way can be used for upstream controls or can be presented directly on displays.

      If a certain position is recorded as an absolute value and is to be available after the system has been switched off and on again, absolute rotary encoders are essential. For all other applications, incremental encoders may be the appropriate choice.
        • Incremental rotary encoders

        • Recording position changes economically
          Incremental rotary encoders are the most economic and simple way of measuring a position change (linear oder rotative) . Rotary encoders are particularly suited for low-cost applications since they can be used very flexibly in many applications. In the product range of incremental rotary encoders SIKO offers flexibility not only of incremental interfaces but also of mechanical design.

          Incremental rotary encoders with a variety of interfaces
          The simple and cost-effective incremental rotary encoders (also known as rotary pulse encoders), offer an incremental interface with A, B, I as well as inverted signals. They are equipped optionally with HTL (push-pull) or TTL (RS422 – LD signals) .

          Benefits
          • Optical and magnetic incremental rotary encoders.
          • High shock, vibration and temperature resistance
          • Insensitive to oils, lubricants, dirt, and water for instance
          • Wear- and maintenance-free sensor system
          • Universal application: various hollow shaft and solid shaft designs
          • Compact designs thanks to highly integrated sensor system
          • High speeds up to 12000 rpm
        • Absolute rotary encoders

        • Rotary encoders based on the absolute measuring method
          Absolute rotary encoders also called Absolute value encoders, are encoders which unambiguously encode every shaft position and display it as a position value. Thus, absolute value encoders are able to deliver unambiguous position values from the moment they are started. For instance, an absolute rotary pulse encoder detects its position exactly also after restart even when it has changed in the de-energized state. Therefore, with the absolute measuring method compared to incremental rotary encoders, there is no need for time-consuming reference travels after machine start or after loss of supply voltage.

          Absolute single-turn rotary encoders
          Single-turn rotary encoders are angle encoders, which are able to absolutely acquire and output the position within one revolution (360°. These encoders are particularly suited for applications where a swivel movement is to be acquired absolutely. ‘The availability of very small design and their ability to acquire absolute angle positions at especially low cost is another great advantage single-turn encoders from SIKO.

          Benefits
          • Absolute measurement system
          • Very high resolution
          • Precise positioning
          • Different interfaces
          • Fieldbus interfaces
          • Miniature designs also available in heavy-duty housings
        • Geared potentiometer

        • Geared potentiometers
          Potentiometric rotation angle transducers are becoming increasingly important in analog measuring applications requiring high-quality industrial measurement results today due to their excellent cost-benefit ratio.

          A Design and functionality of geared potentiometers
          A geared potentiometer comprises two main components. One is a measuring gear with precision gear wheels. The other is an electric resistor element with a variable resistance value that is adjusted by turning. The gear unit and potentiometer are assembled at the works with minimum backlash. The integrated slip clutch used in multi-coil potentiometers serves to prevent overrunning of the mechanical stops. A geared potentiometer therefore emits an ohmic output signal that is proportional to the number of turns.

          Benefits
          • Long service life
          • Optimized design
          • Absolute measurement
          • Versatile analog signal on the encoder output
          • Easy integration thanks to hollow and solid shaft technologies
          • Numerous gear transmission ratios to enable adjustment to customer's measuring range
        • Electronic displays

        • Suitable for the indication of values measured by various types of distance and angle encoders. The electronic display units are freely programmable and have interfaces for communication with superordinate controls.
      • LinearLine: Wire-Actuated Encoders

      • New technologies for challenging demands in linear measurement technology through SIKO wire-actuated encoders / string pots
        Based on decades of experience, the compact SIKO wire-actuated encoders / string pots provide an easy-to-install and reliable option for linear position measurement. There is a wide range of options for industrial use, even in difficult environments.

        Wire-actuated encoders permit easy installation and integration into machine layouts
        With their sophisticated technology and operational safety, SIKO wire-actuated sensors present a convincing measurement solution that is very easy to integrate. They are suited to a large number of measurement tasks under very different conditions. The wire-actuated distance encoders are sturdily designed, and the wire types used mean that they have a particularly long life and are maintenance free.
          • Wire-Actuated Encoders

          • Length measurement technology with SIKO wire-actuated encoders / string pots
            SIKO wire-actuated encoders / string pots have been in use for many years in the field of length measuring technology and have already proved their worth in different conditions, including difficult conditions. Sturdy compact design combined with highest precision and reliability are the governing criteria of new developments in this area.

            Only a wire-actuated encoder can be used as a linear measured displacement encoder for many applications because no guided sensor systems can be used due to the spatial constellation.

            Wire-actuated encoders are flexible regarding integration and interfaces
            The easy assembly and guiding of the wire pull-out means that the measuring system can be integrated in existing systems simply and flexibly. Different interfaces and output signals make it possible to connect to a vast range of different control concepts.

            Benefits
            • Temperature range up to -40 °C
            • Robust also for wet and dirty applications
            • Easy installation of the wire extension
            • Flexible system integration of any output signals and interfaces
            • Enhanced safety through redundant sensor system as an option
          • Position sensors for hydraulic cylinders

          • Completely Integrable Wire-Actuated Encoders for Hydraulic Cylinders, Telescopic Cylinders and Piston Accumulators
            SIKO Linear Line Wire-Actuated Encoder of the SGH series are based more than 30 years of development history and the experience from a large number of demanding applications in a wide range of industries. The intelligent design and operating principle of the measuring equipment enables measuring ranges from zero to five meters despite very compact dimensions. The encoders are used in a wide variety of mobile machines, such as construction machinery, agricultural machinery, municipal vehicles and commercial vehicles. Manufacturers of hydraulic cylinders and OEMs use the robust technology successfully and appreciate the associated competitive advantages of the SIKO wire-actuated encoders.

            SIKO already introduced a world novelty on the market for position sensors in 2015 with "string pots" in hydraulic cylinders. The first model of the SGH series, the SGH10, was presented with a measuring length of up to 1000 mm. The innovation: This was the first fully integrated wire-actuated encoder for position measurement of hydraulic cylinders, which impress with a variety of advantages compared to conventional solutions at the same time. The SGH10 was immediately recognized by the market as a particularly innovative product and distinguished with the i-Novo Award in the "TECH" category.

            Benefits
            • Measurement range up to 5000 mm
            • Integration of the sensor technology in hydraulic cylinders or telescopic cylinders
            • Extremely robust and durable sensors
            • High shock and vibration tolerance
            • Peak pressures up to 650 bar
            • Can be used for safety-critical applications up to PLd
        • DriveLine: Actuators

        • SIKO DriveLine compact actuators: Reduce setup times, enhance productivity!
          "Short cycle times and changeover times, high productivity and quality with lower capital expenditure" is the recipe for success of ideal industrial processes.

          The DriveLine actuators of SIKO GmbH are particularly well suited for this purpose. Automatic format adjustment, stop positioning, tool alignment and valve adjustment as well as many other comparable positioning tasks: from a rotary actuator or actuator for simple applications and ancillary functions to a rotary drive and spindle drive or servo drive replacement for the control of complex machine processes and main processes, all of these tasks are easily mastered.

          Benefits
          Flexible machine conception, simple regulating behavior
          Low installation and mounting effort
          High availability and freedom from maintenance
          Short cycle or changeover time high productivity and quality
            • Fieldbus actuators

            • Fieldbus positioning drives / spindle drives with absolute encoders
              Fieldbus systems, based on communication interfaces such as RS232, RS485, fieldbus interfaces and Ethernet-based fieldbus interfaces, are gaining in significance or are already standard in mechanical and plant engineering.

              Firstly, considerable installation and maintenance costs can be saved. Secondly, fieldbus systems offer ideal digital networking of intelligent actuators / actuators with upstream automation systems such as PLCs (programmable logic controllers) and IPCs (industrial personal computers) etc. Nowadays developers and designers working in plant engineering not only have to give the right actuator the right mechanical and performance dimensions, but also – due to the large number of fieldbus systems on the market, the use of which is (increasingly) being decided by the end customer – have to be familiar with several systems and bring these in line with the requirements for use.

              Consequently, a universal fieldbus interface like SIKONETZ-5, whose main feature is fieldbus-independent device behavior (device profile) and that supports various control and fieldbus systems, offers real ease of integration. Another important aspect relates to the commissioning and diagnosis possibilities that an intelligent DriveLine fieldbus drive / servo drive / spindle drive offers.

              The DriveLine fieldbus drives meet these demands and can be integrated by the provision of various standardized fieldbus interfaces, such as CANopen, Profibus-DP or Ethernet/IP, Profinet, EtherCat, and POWERLINK, in the axis drive / rotary drive or easily coupled using an external interface converter thanks to the high-performance and universal structure.

              Benefits
              • Flexible machine conception, simple regulating behavior
              • Low installation and mounting effort
              • High availability and freedom from maintenance
              • Short cycle or changeover time
              • High productivity and quality
            • Analog actuators

            • Functioning and design of analog actuators

              AG01 and AG02 positioning drives in detail
              With the DriveLine AG01 and AG02 analog actuator / spindle drive, potentiometer sensors are used as sensors for recording angle change or rotation direction and in conjunction with mechanical units such as spindles, synchronous belts or gear racks for recording linear movements.
              The potentiometer-encoder is a position sensor of the potentiometer type. Based on the position of the movable part (slider), the electrical resistance between the slider and the ends changes. By switching the encoder as a voltage divider, it is thus possible to obtain an electrical voltage that changes relative to the position. Using transmitters (analog), also referred to as measuring transducers in some areas, the resistance values can be provided or emitted in a standardized, analog electrical standard signal, for example electrical signals in accordance with DIN IEC 60381-1: 0 to 20 mA or 4 to 20 mA (live zero) or voltage signals in accordance with DIN IEC 60381-2: 0 to 10 V or 2 to 10 V (live zero). Live-zero signals are used in almost all industrial applications. If the beginning of the measurement area is allocated an electrical signal that differs from 0, it is possible to monitor breaks in the wire. The process of recording measurement values is adjusted to the entire measurement range using an internal measuring gear as well as a trimmer potentiometer in the case of transformers.

              Unlike a digital signal, an analog signal is stepless and can be as fine as needed. In the case of real physical parameters, however, the resolution is limited by disruptions such as noise or distortion. Once disruptions are added to an analog signal, they can no longer be reversed.

              Modern rotary potentiometers are manufactured with tracks made from conductive plastic. Not only does this solution ensure a considerably longer service life than a wire potentiometer, the high-quality mixtures also make it possible to use the products even in moist conditions or at high temperatures.

              Benefits
              • Flexible machine conception, simple regulating behavior
              • Low installation and mounting effort
              • High availability and freedom from maintenance
              • Short cycle or changeover time
              • High productivity and quality
            • Incremental actuators

            • Incremental spindle drives / servo drives
              With the spindle drive / actuator DriveLine AG01 and AG02 incremental, incremental encoders are used as sensors for recording angle change and rotational direction and, in conjunction with mechanical units such as threaded spindles, also for recording linear movements.

              The technique used to determine relative angles is referred to as incremental encoding, unlike the encoding method used in single-turn or multi-turn absolute encoders. Other names include incremental rotary encoders or rotary encoders.

              Benefits
              • Flexible machine conception, simple regulating behavior
              • Low installation and mounting effort
              • High availability and freedom from maintenance
              • Short cycle or changeover time high productivity and quality
          • MagLine: magnetic linear and angular measurement

          • The special advantages of the MagLine magnetic length and angle measurement technology
            • Non-contacting measurement with magnetic sensor and magnetic strip or magnetic ring
            • Completely non-wearing
            • Insensitive to dust, chips, moisture, oil, grease etc.
            • Very robust when exposed to shocks and vibration
            • No measuring errors caused by gear ratios or gear backlash
            • High system accuracy and reproducibility, easy handling and installation

            Measurements under extreme industrial conditions are demanding when it comes to ensuring reliability and reproducibility. MagLine systems are the preferred solution for linear and radial positions as well as precise measurement of speeds and angles. The non-contacting design proves its advantages in all measurement situations, for example for motor feedback and highly dynamic processes in very soiled environments.
              • Magnetic sensors

              • Magnetic sensors as an inexpensive alternative to optical sensors
                Magnetic sensors are hallmarked by robustness and cost efficiency. With their non-contacting design they are non-wearing and insensitive to soiling in comparison to optical sensors, for example. Magnetic sensors therefore only require little or no servicing. In addition they are more flexible during installation: The distances between the magnetic sensor and strip can be considerably larger than with an optical measuring system. The following versions are available:

                • Various sizes through to a board solution
                • Individual connector options
                • Installation in customized housing
              • Magnetic bands

              • Encoding of magnetic length measurement technology and magnetic angle measurement technology
                The magnetic strips (flexible steel strips with a magnetic coating) are made by SIKO with precision and the greatest possible care. In specially developed processes the magnetic strip system are given one or more magnetic code tracks.

                Magnetic incremental measurement as an economic solution
                Incremental encoding enables robust and economical all-round solutions in which, for example, the flexible magnetic strips can be cut to length before self-adhesive assembly. The magnetic strip is regularly encoded with north and south poles. The pole length is decisive for the maximum resolution and system accuracy. The shorter the distance between the individual poles, the higher the accuracy of the respective magnetic strip.

                Absolute magnetic measurement for high measurement reliability
                The absolute encoding of the strip material produces system properties with particularly high reproducibility and measuring accuracy. Equipped with the corresponding magnetic sensors, the absolute magnetic measurement permits position detection even in a non-energized condition. After current interruption, e.g. when the system has been powered down and switched on again, the actual position value is still detected and implemented even if the sensor position has changed.
              • Magnetic rings

              • Attach the magnetic strip, then encode
                Measurement of rotational movement makes specific demands. In spite of the fact that rotation and swivel motion are standard applications in mechanical engineering, they are a challenge for measuring system manufacturers. At SIKO the magnetically encoded measuring strips are available in two versions; as flexible magnetic rings without a flange or bonded with a magnetic ring (flange). When bonded with the ring, joints cannot be avoided that can cause measurement inaccuracies. To prevent this, SIKO has set up its own ring production in which the magnetic strip is first applied and then incrementally encoded. With the manufacturing quality of the magnetic rings, up to 360 degree measurement is possible.

                Customized magnetic rings
                In addition to a portfolio of its own rings, SIKO also offers customized options. With large quantities, SIKO can also encode your own rings.

                Criteria for the selection of a magnetic ring
                The following factors are decisive for the selection of a suitable magnetic ring for your application:

                • The required size (outside diameter)
                • The number of pulses/rotation
                • The accuracy class
                • The number of poles on the magnetic ring / magnetic strip ring
                • Application of a reference point: Yes or no
              • Electronic displays

              • Measuring displays for incremental measurement as well as absolute and quasi-absolute measurement
                Suitable measuring displays are available for incremental, absolute and quasi-absolute measuring methods. On the last version the power supply is ensured by an integrated battery with a very long service life. With the battery buffer the measurement values are not lost, even when the power supply is interrupted. The displays vary between LED and LCD displays, whereby some have a very low consumption and a high contrast.

                When selecting the display, pay attention to the following parameters:
                Accuracy class
                Resolution
                Display with either five, six or twelve digits; some also with decimal and fractions/inches output
                Optional feature on some displays: Serial interface

                Some displays work with a magnetic sensor that is already firmly connected. This results in a compact component which already contains all necessary measuring functions and that can be used directly at the measurement point. A plug connection between the display and magnetic sensor is sometimes also possible.
              • Translation modules

              • How the electronic evaluation unit works
                A passive magnetic sensor of the MagLine range combined with an electronic SIKO evaluation unit acts as an active sensor and forwards its information to a higher-level control unit. With the aid of the electronic evaluation feature, specific parameters can be adjusted in advance to suit the specific application. For example, the required resolution can be easily set with the DIP switches integrated into the evaluation electronics. When selecting an active magnetic sensor without evaluation electronics, the resolution must be selected in advance and a corresponding sensor employed.

                Depending on the space available, the size of the respective sensor heads is often a decisive criterion. Passive magnetic sensors have smaller sensor heads, as they only scan the magnet signal and therefore require fewer internal electronics. The active magnetic sensors contain considerably more electronics to convert the measured values into digital counting impulses, analog sine-cosine signals or serial absolute values. For this reason the combination „passive magnetic sensor/evaluation electronics“ can be the preferred option if space for magnetic linear measurement is limited.

                Criteria for the selection of evaluation electronics
                • Incremental magnetic measurement, absolute magnetic measurement or quasi-absolute magnetic measurement
                • Maximum resolution
                • Reading distance
              • Inclinometers / tilt sensors

              • Inclinometers / tilt sensors enable easy acquisition of tilts
                Inclinometers are most suitable for recording inclinations with respect to the earth’s center and transmitting them back to a higher-level control as a position response. The basis of previous inclinometers (also known as inclination sensors, slope finders or clinometers) was a simple pendulum that changed direction by a tilting movement. This change in direction was then evaluated optically, inductively, electronically or on a capacitive basis.

                Inclinometers / tilt sensors using MEMS technology
                The SIKO inclinometers all work on the modern principle of MEMS technology. (Micro-Electronic-Mechanical System). With this measuring principle, a series of electrodes are housed in a hermetically sealed ASIC chip. The capacitive voltage between the electrodes is measured.

                Recording can be done either as a single axis (0…360 °) or as a double axis ( 80°) with a system accuracy of a maximum of 0.1 ° and a resolution of 0.01 °.

                The measured data is output directly as analog (0…10 Volt or 4…20 mA) or as digital (RS232) values or via per CANopen. When using the CANopen interface, a bus operation is also possible for up to 127 participants.
            • Applications

                • Format Adjustment

                • SIKO Quick Size Changeover - Your way to Industry 4.0

                  Flexible production processes instantly or at the flick of a switch
                  The demands for flexibility to be met by modern production processes are on the steady increase. With a wide product variety and increasingly small batch sizes, optimum system availability is becoming even more important. Short tooling times are therefore a standard requirement for production and packaging machines.

                  The reliability of the positioning systems employed is decisive for flexible production processes, irrespective of whether these are inexpensive with a handwheel, reliable with a bus-compatible position indicator or fully automatic with an actuator. As the inventor of the mechanical-digital position indicator, the so-called SIKO counter, today we are the global market leader in the field of digital position indicators. With our close partnerships with a circle of customers that includes internationally pioneering machine manufacturers, for decades we have been setting standards with innovative solutions for efficient format adjustment when changing products.
                • Position Sensors for Hydraulic Cylinders

                • The SIKO position sensors of the SGH range profit from more than 30 years of development experience in wire-actuated encoder technology. The intelligent design and functional concept offers sensor system solutions with measuring ranges of zero to five metres that are integrated into smart hydraulic cylinders, telescopic cylinders and piston accumulators of mobile machines and utility vehicles and taps new added value potential for cylinder manufacturers and OEMs.
                • Mobile Automation

                • Sensor Solutions for Mobile Automation
                  Modern commercial vehicles as we know them today are intelligent, flexible and connected. However, the requirements of robustness and longevity remain the same, because the vehicles and machines are permanently exposed to harsh environments. Regardless of whether subject to hot or cold environments, high shock or vibrations, water, mud or dust, these machines must function reliably under any conditions. To automate mobile machines, entire workflows or even have vehicles run autonomously, it takes smart sensor solutions. SIKO as a competent partner with more than 50 years of experience in position detection supports you as a strong and reliable partner. With application experience in mobile machines for more than 30 years, we provide a wide range of sensors for position, velocity and tilt detection.
                • Motor feedback, linear & rotary

                • Motor feedback systems: precise position feedback
                  Electrical drive units in industrial automation processes require precise and reliable control. Sophisticated sensor systems such as those supplied by SIKO are essential with direct drive systems in which the motor and machine are directly connected and no gear unit is required. A motor feedback system signals the position and speed measurements of the motor to a subsequent electronic system. This in turn controls at which speed, in which direction and with which degree of precision the motor should run. The measurement system must be fully aligned with the demands of the application to enable the electrical drive to work as efficiently and reliably as possible while conserving resources. The SIKO magnetic motor feedback systems satisfy the high demands of industrial drive technology regarding precision, resilience to external influences, shock and vibration as well as having an extremely compact design.
                • Sun tracking

                • Measurement technology for sun tracking systems
                  Sensors are used for precise measurement of angle and position in solar-thermal power plants. The downstream control system receives the required feedback to adjust the actual value to the corresponding setpoint. The required angle (=setpoint) is stored in the controller depending on the time of day and consequently the solar altitude angle. The collectors can assume any position and consequently follow sun movement ideally to capture the maximum amount of sunlight.

                  The SIKO sensors excel in this industry thanks to their durable, long-lasting and climate-resistant technology.

                  Thanks to our many years of experience, we provide reliable measurement technologies for position detection of:

                  • Photovoltaic modules
                  • Solar mirrors
                  • Parabolic modules

                  Benefits

                  • Optimal efficiency thanks to high repeatability
                  • Wear-free and low-maintenance
                  • Simple and inexpensive mounting
                  • Climate-resistant (UV, -40...85 °C)
                  • Incremental or absolute
                  • Open or integrated
                  • Absolute accuracy up to 0.05°
                  • The SIKO sensors excel in this industry thanks to their durable, long-lasting and climate-resistant technology.
                • Medical Device Technology

                • Measurement technology for medical and laboratory technology
                  Based on our many years of experience, we provide our customers from medical, analysis and laboratory technology not only with support in the selection of precise length, angle and speed measurement technology for the following medical products:

                  • Tomographs and X-ray apparatuses
                  • Operation and patient tables
                  • Laboratory and analytical technology
                  • Robotics
                  • Rehabilitation machines

                  Benefits

                  • Precise, repeat-accurate and robust sensor technology
                  • Absolutely measuring functional principle
                  • Various interfaces are available
                  • High safety
                  • Customer-specific adjustments and special solutions
                  • Wear-free technology
                  • Easy handling and mounting
                • Magnetic Absolute Measurement

                • SIKO MagLine absolute measurement technology
                  Knowing exactly where you are, even after currentless conditions!
                  Absolutely measuring systems are indispensible for demanding and special applications. Magnetic absolute measuring technology is predestined for the following applications:

                  • Medical technology (e.g., Tomographs, operating tables)
                  • Linear drive technology
                  • Torque motors
                  • Stop systems (e.g., wood working)
                  • Sawing technology (wood, metal, stone working)
                  • Elevator technology
                  • Warehouse and conveyor technology
                  • Presses
                  • Special engineering

                  Benefits

                  • Precise, repeat-accurate and robust sensor system
                  • No referencing required, therefore time-saving
                  • Additional incremental interface for control available
                  • Short cycle times, up to 22 µs
                  • Various interfaces available
                  • Wear-free
                • Stone working

                • Robust magnetic measurement systems for stone working machines
                  In the area of stone working, SIKO can score with long years of experience in measuring length and angle positions. We deliver displays and sensors e.g. for:

                  • Stone band saws and buzz saws
                  • Edge-polishing machines
                  • Machining centers in the area of stone working
                  • Transport systems and handling systems

                  Advantages

                  • Large tape-sensor gap of max. 20 mm
                  • Narrow, compact sensor designs
                  • Wear-free and low-maintenance
                  • Insensitive to dust, shavings, and humidity
                  • High shock and vibration resistance
                  • Suitable for outdoor use
                • Wood working

                • Measurement and display systems for wood working
                  Woodworking is a core industry, which has been using SIKO products since decades for scanning position and angle. Common applications include:

                  • Length measurement or angle measurement on saw benches
                  • Determination of the parallel limit stop of panel saws
                  • Angle adjustment and format adjustment on buzz saws
                  • Position determination on drilling centers
                  • Position measurement on hanging saws/run saws

                  Benefits

                  • Great range of solutions for length acquisition and angle acquisition
                  • Direct display of position values on the machine
                  • Wear-free and low-maintenance
                  • Insensitive to dust, shavings, and humidity
                  • Easy mounting and handling
                  • Battery service lives up to 10 years in magnetic displays