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

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.ModelProduct NameRemarks
1MES-3PSTUltra-Compact Incremental EncoderWorld-class compact incremental rotary encoder
2MES-6Ultra-Compact Incremental EncoderWorld-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.ModelProduct NameRemarks
1ME-30Compact High-Resolution Incremental EncoderThin, compact incremental encoder, available in a wide range of resolutions and shaft sizes

Master-Slave Control for Surgical Robots

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.ModelProduct NameRemarks
1ME-9PSTCompact High-Resolution Encoderφ13, 16,000 P/R, ABZ output
2ME-12PSTCompact High-Resolution Encoderφ20, 32,000 P/R, ABZ output

Finger Joint Angle Detection for Humanoid Robots

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.ModelProduct NameRemarks
1MES-6Ultra-Compact Encoderφ7.5, 500 P/R, ABZ output
2MES-6PSTUltra-Compact Encoderφ7.5, 2,000 P/R, ABZ output

Ball Screw Feed Length Measurement

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.ModelProduct NameRemarks
1MLS-12Ultra-Compact Wire-Type Linear ScaleMeasurement range: 250 mm, minimum reading: 0.04 mm
2MLS-30Compact Wire-Type Linear ScaleMeasurement range: 1000 mm, minimum reading: 0.02 mm
Technology introduction

Technical Introduction

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