Re: [CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO] Encoders on stepper motors.

In a message dated 3/25/01 6:32:26 AM Hawaiian Standard Time,
fenerty@... writes:

<< Hi All:

I might be missing something here. I have heard alot about encoders on
stepper motor systems increasing accuracy. Am I wrong or is the only purpose
of an encoder in a stepper
motor system only used in the case of a stepper missing pulses? If the
stepper never misses a pulse, the encoder does not do anything. The motor can
only be positioned to a multiple of its stepping resolution, right? If a
motor misses pulses, isn't this an indication of a poorly powered stepper
system? I get the strange feeling I'm missing something obvious.

Thanks,
Art >>
Art,

I think it is more for part accuracy. If the system can come back and tell
you it did not miss any steps, then you can be fairly sure the part came out
the way the machine is best capable of doing. If it flags you on a missed
step or steps, then your part is suspect. If you run parts all day and have
to inspect every one as they go out, it gets very old. I'd QC once in a while
anyway but if you don't have a following error to speak of, the confidience
level does go up.

Peter
THRD, Inc.