Integrating Encoder Into Gearbox

[Kellen Hill]

For an option mentioned earlier, Automation Direct has some nice shaft couplers (Product Page)

We used a couple of these on our drivetrain gearboxes and were very happy with them. Obviously our setup is a little different than your gearbox.

[cbale2000]

Originally Posted by Kellen Hill

For an option mentioned earlier, Automation Direct has some nice shaft couplers (Product Page)

We used a couple of these on our drivetrain gearboxes and were very happy with them. Obviously our setup is a little different than your gearbox.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CbHVKNyUMAAT6_Y.jpg

I like that encoder mount, looks like it would be really simple to take on and off for maintenance, not to mention light weight. Are there issues with the mount shaking while it runs, or does it all fit pretty snug?

Any chance you could post the CAD for it?

[Kellen Hill]

Originally Posted by cbale2000

I like that encoder mount, looks like it would be really simple to take on and off for maintenance, not to mention light weight. Are there issues with the mount shaking while it runs, or does it all fit pretty snug?

Any chance you could post the CAD for it?

Mounts lasted through 4 competitions with zero issues. The set screws on the coupler retained the encoder/mount from sliding in or out. I designed the mount to have just a bit of spring against the CIMs to make sure it would have a tight fit.

CAD file: Link

[DinerKid]

Similar to the lexan Z mounts, we have seen success in the past with small aluminum mounts (these fit really nicely in the lightening holes of other parts that are cut on a water jet, which makes for efficient layouts). These can then be secured to the frame with a rubber mount which can be purchased from McMaster here.

As for the shaft of the encoder we simply drill the appropriate hole in the shaft (haven't always reamed the hole) and secure it with some loctite 680 (which has a diametrical clearance max of 0.015" so your hole doesn't need to be all that precise). Takes a heat gun to remove it, but luckily none of the defenses this year involved a heat gun, so the encoders stayed put.

We made this our standard method of mounting encoders and potentiometers in 2015. The rubber mounts allow for some give, allowing some misalignment, but are quite rigid which I would imagine eliminates the issues seen with latex tubing used as a coupler.

~DK