POSITAL has introduced new versions of its TILTIX inclinometers that can provide reliable tilt measurement for moving equipment. These new devices use a combination of electro-mechanical gyroscopes and accelerometers to provide accurate measurements, even if the instruments are subject to strong accelerations.
POSITAL’s TILTIX inclinometers rely on monitoring the effect of gravity on a tiny mass suspended in an elastic support structure. When the device tilts, this mass will move slightly, causing a change of capacitance between the mass and the supporting structure. The tilt angle is calculated from the measured capacitances. Unfortunately, accelerations (e.g. due to rapid motion of the equipment to which the instrument is attached) will also cause the mass to shift relative to its support structure and introduce errors in the tilt measurements. POSITAL’s engineers have eliminated this problem by adding a set of electromechanical gyroscopes to the inclinometers. Signals from these gyroscopes are used to compensate for the effects of acceleration, with the result that the new dynamic TILTIX inclinometers can be used reliably on mobile equipment such as construction machinery, mining equipment, cranes and anywhere else where sudden movements, shocks and vibrations are likely to be encountered.
The new dynamic TILTIX inclinometers have a measurement range of +180° around their X-axis (pitch) and + 90°around their Y-axis (roll). This enables them to cover a full range of motions. The CANopen communications interface is currently supported, with analog, SAE J-1939 and Modbus interfaces soon to be introduced. Durable plastic or extra-rugged aluminum housings are offered.
