Micro Encoder Applications
Application Cases
See how MTL’s compact, high-resolution rotary encoders are used in real applications where space saving, precision, and stable control matter.
Distance Measurement for In-Pipe Inspection Robots

This encoder is used for distance measurement in robots that move through narrow pipes while capturing images. Travel distance is measured from tire rotation count and angle. Because installation space is limited, ultra-compact rotary encoders are selected.
Applicable series
MES-3PST
MES-6
Product Configuration
| No. | Model | Product Name | Remarks |
| 1 | MES-3PST | Ultra-Compact Incremental Encoder | World-class compact incremental rotary encoder |
| 2 | MES-6 | Ultra-Compact Incremental Encoder | World-class compact incremental rotary encoder |
Pan-Tilt Angle Control for Long-Range Disaster Prevention Cameras

In disaster prevention cameras, even a slight movement of the pan-tilt unit appears as a large movement in the captured image because the subject is far away. For this reason, a high-resolution rotary encoder is used to control the pan-tilt rotation angle more precisely. Its compact size also helps maintain greater design freedom without interfering with camera movement.
Applicable series
ME-30 Series
Product Configuration
| No. | Model | Product Name | Remarks |
| 1 | ME-30 | Compact High-Resolution Incremental Encoder | Thin, compact incremental encoder, available in a wide range of resolutions and shaft sizes |
Master-Slave Control for Surgical Robots

These encoders are used for finger joint angle measurement in the master device and for control of the slave-side forceps in surgical assist robots. Since both position and speed must be calculated, high resolution of 30,000 P/R or more is required. To achieve more natural operation, compact size and low weight are also important, since smaller encoders help secure a wider range of motion.
Applicable series
ME-9PST
ME-12PST
Product Configuration
| No. | Model | Product Name | Remarks |
| 1 | ME-9PST | Compact High-Resolution Encoder | φ13, 16,000 P/R, ABZ output |
| 2 | ME-12PST | Compact High-Resolution Encoder | φ20, 32,000 P/R, ABZ output |
Finger Joint Angle Detection for Humanoid Robots

These encoders are used to detect finger joint angles in humanoid robots. By using ultra-compact encoders, it becomes possible to build robot hands close to the size of a human hand.
Applicable series
MES-6
MES-6PST
Product Configuration
| No. | Model | Product Name | Remarks |
| 1 | MES-6 | Ultra-Compact Encoder | φ7.5, 500 P/R, ABZ output |
| 2 | MES-6PST | Ultra-Compact Encoder | φ7.5, 2,000 P/R, ABZ output |
Ball Screw Feed Length Measurement

Wire-type linear encoders are used in stages driven by ball screw mechanisms. Unlike conventional linear encoders, no guide rail or detection head installation is required. Length measurement can be done easily by fixing only the main unit and the wire tip. It can also measure the actual stage travel, including backlash caused by gears and other mechanical elements.
Applicable series
MLS-12
MLS-30
Product Configuration
| No. | Model | Product Name | Remarks |
| 1 | MLS-12 | Ultra-Compact Wire-Type Linear Scale | Measurement range: 250 mm, minimum reading: 0.04 mm |
| 2 | MLS-30 | Compact Wire-Type Linear Scale | Measurement range: 1000 mm, minimum reading: 0.02 mm |

Technical Introduction
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