Linear actuators frequently employ a stepper motor to position the load, or perhaps a or servo motor with encoder.  These require a ballscrew to convert a precise rotary position to a linear one.  Ballscrews are expensive, heavy and will often require protection from a harsh environment.    CambridgeIC's linear position transducers allow designers to measure position at the point of load, so the ballscrew may be replaced with a belt to deliver a lighter, more cost effective module.

The linear sensor is built from a printed circuit board (PCB).  A PCB is stable and robust, and allows the sensor, its processing and motion control circuitry to be combined.  Sensor processing is performed with a CambridgeIC Central Tracking Unit (CTU) chip such as the CAM204, which processes position information and communicates it to motion control circuitry.

• No mechanical or electrical contact between target and sensor
• Absolute sensing means no need for home and limit sensors
• CTU chip can also sense motor shaft angle for velocity feedback
• Yields a lighter system that is cheaper to manufacture and assemble