Capacitive linear encoder
KappaSense FLEXe capacitive linear encoder
Robust capacitive linear encoder with wide mounting tolerances for vibrating, dirty or hot environments, strokes to 1.9 m.
Key specifications
| Linear speed (max) | 10 m/s |
|---|---|
| Accuracy | +/-20 um/m |
| Interface | BiSS-C, A quad B |
| Resolution | 2 |
| Stroke | up to 1900 |
| Temp | -40 to +85 C |
Series ranges as published; individual models vary. The full datasheet, drawings and CAD models are available on request.
Typical applications
What a capacitive linear encoder is
A capacitive linear encoder measures position along a straight axis by sensing capacitance between electrodes on a readhead and a patterned scale. As the readhead moves, the capacitance pattern changes, and electronics calculate absolute or incremental position. Scales can be printed circuit strips or flexible substrates, and some designs use passive readheads with no cable on the moving part. Capacitive linear encoders are unaffected by magnetic fields and can tolerate wide mounting tolerances.
When engineers choose a capacitive linear encoder
Choose a capacitive linear encoder for robust, cost-effective absolute position on axes near magnets or where moving cables are a problem, such as linear motors, actuators, medical and laboratory devices. The trade-offs are moisture sensitivity and accuracy: water or conductive films between head and scale affect readings, and accuracy is typically below optical scales. For precision metrology choose optical; for wet or very dirty conditions consider inductive or magnetic.
How to specify the KappaSense FLEXe
Send these with your enquiry and an engineer can confirm the right FLEXe variant:
- Measuring length (mm)
- Resolution and accuracy (µm)
- Absolute or incremental output
- Interface
- Mounting tolerances: gap and alignment (mm)
- Readhead mass and cabling
- Environment: moisture, dust and temperature
Common mistakes to avoid
- Allowing condensation or liquid films on the scale
- Ignoring thermal expansion of the scale substrate
- Exceeding allowed gap tolerances
- Assuming optical-grade accuracy
KappaSense FLEXe: frequently asked questions
What is the KappaSense FLEXe?
Robust capacitive linear encoder with wide mounting tolerances for vibrating, dirty or hot environments, strokes to 1.9 m. Published series figures include linear speed 10 m/s. It is available through our supply network, and our engineers can confirm the right variant for your application.
Who makes the KappaSense FLEXe?
The KappaSense FLEXe is made by KappaSense (KappaSense Ltd.) available through our supply network. Send us your requirement for pricing, lead time, datasheets and CAD.
What is the linear speed of the KappaSense FLEXe?
The published series maximum linear speed is 10 m/s. Individual models and sizes in the FLEXe range vary, so check the exact variant against your duty cycle, mounting and environment, or ask our engineers to confirm the right size for you.
How does a capacitive linear encoder work?
The scale carries a pattern of electrodes and the readhead senses changes in capacitance as it moves along. Electronics convert the signal into position, either absolute or incremental. Because it uses electric fields, it is not affected by magnets and can tolerate wide mounting gaps.
Can multiple readheads share one capacitive scale?
Some capacitive designs allow several readheads to share one scale, each measuring its own position. This suits multi-carriage systems. Check that the specific encoder supports multiple heads, how close the heads may run to each other and that the controller interface can handle several position channels.
Further reading: How to select a linear encoder · Magnetic vs capacitive vs optical encoders · Encoders and feedback
Often compared with
Engineers specifying this series often compare it with:
Other capacitive linear encoder series
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