October 9, 2014 - POSITAL added support for the Modbus RTU communications protocol to its TILTIX family of inclinometers (tilt sensors). The Modbus RTU protocol, which is openly published and royalty-free, has emerged as a de-facto standard for simple, robust and cost-efficient data acquisition and control systems built around standard PLCs and the familiar RS-485 serial connections. Modbus RTU nodes can be connected together through RS-485 serial connections with up to 32 devices connected to the bus. The Modbus RTU models are available in single axis (0 - 360°) or dual axis (±80°) versions.
Measurement accuracy is to within ±0.1°. Durable PBT plastic housings meet the needs of most applications, with extra heavy-duty cast aluminum housings available for super-harsh working environments. Measurement resolution, zero setting and direction can be adjusted in the device’s firmware through an application programming interface (API). This makes it possible to pre-condition the output signal so that position values are directly useable by a PLC without any further conversion or scaling.
The API can also be used to add a built-in termination resistor to the interface whenever this is required by the wiring layout. Modbus RTU-equipped TILTIX inclinometers are ideal for solar energy systems where it is necessary to monitor the spatial orientation of multiple collectors or reflectors. They can also be used in material handling equipment or for many other applications where a practical, low-cost position control solution is required.
Company background
POSITAL, a highly specialized manufacturer of absolute and incremental rotary encoders as well as inclinometers, belongs to the FRABA group which dates back to 1918, when its predecessor Franz Baumgartner elektrische Apparate GmbH, a producer of relays, was established. In 1963, the parent company introduced the first metallic brush-based absolute rotary encoders, and developed optical absolute encoders in the 1970s. Founded in the 1980s, the company’s encoder division established itself as a successful supplier for the machine building industry. In 1993, the management consultant Christian Leeser, his brother Dr. Achim Leeser, and Axel Wiemann, head of the encoder division, acquired the company and restructured it with a new management.
Today, the group consists of independent companies that employ a staff of 120 at locations in Germany, Singapore, and the USA, and operate a state-of-the-art production plant in Poland. Over the last few years, POSITAL has developed various innovative products, including optical and magnetic safety encoders as well as high-resolution magnetic multi-turn encoders.
