How Long Is One Pulse of a Magnetic Scale? How to Calculate?

Magnetic scale is a precision measuring tool used to measure displacement. It is widely applied in CNC machines and processing equipment. The pulse length of a magnetic scale is an important performance indicator, usually representing the displacement length for each pulse.Today the Atonm sensors editor will introduce how pulse length is determined and calculated.

1. Pulse length of a magnetic scale

A magnetic scale is a sensor based on magnetic induction. By measuring the displacement between the magnetic scale markings and the sensor, it determines object displacement.

The scale has a series of equally spaced magnetic stripes. As the scale moves relative to the sensor, electromagnetic elements in the sensor detect changes, producing electrical signals. The number and position of these signals determine displacement.

Pulse length is the displacement represented by one pulse, usually measured in micrometers (μm) or millimeters (mm). Smaller pulse length indicates higher measurement precision.

2. How to calculate pulse length

Pulse length can be calculated from the width and spacing of magnetic stripes on the scale. Method:

1. Determine the widthw and spacingp between adjacent magnetic stripes from the scale specifications. One pulse displacement is:

L = w + p

2. If width and spacing are unknown, measure total lengthL and total pulsesN, then pulse length is:

L/N

Note the scale usually has an origin; calculate from that point. If multiple origins exist choose one as the start.

3. Consider resolution impact: if resolution isd then:

L = w + p ± d/2

Here d/2 is the resolution-induced error; sign depends on measurement direction.

Pulse length depends on scale characteristics and the CNC system. Adjust parameters per application to ensure accuracy and stability.

3. Conclusion

Magnetic scale pulse length is a key performance metric representing displacement per pulse. It can be calculated from stripe width and spacing or total length and pulse count. Adjust parameters to meet application accuracy and stability.