The WCS read head with integrated IO-Link interface allows a quick, easy, and cost-effective way to integrate the device into IIoT applications. The system variant has identical dimensions to the previous devices. Existing code rails, mechanics, and accessories such as outdoor housings and carriages can continue to be used without restriction. In addition, predictive maintenance is ensured through comprehensive data sets: temperature, acceleration values in three axes, and a direction bit.

The WCS outdoor option is a read head with a protective housing for tough environments. Its rugged design with IP69 degree of protection resists dust, moisture, shocks, and vibration, suitable for areas with high-pressure cleaners or contact with saltwater, acids, and alkalis. The translucent housing lets maintenance easily view indicator LEDs and the optional display. Flexible connections support installations in tight spaces, with connectors for three installation positions.

For special installations, Pepperl+Fuchs offers the WCS read head with a display option. A seven-segment display is integrated into this read head. The display can be easily rotated by 180° so that the data is clearly visible directly on the read head when the installation is suspended or upright. System setup and troubleshooting have also been simplified. The display can show the current position value, diagnostic functions, and can draw attention to dirty or damaged code rail segments.

If an application requires an especially long distance, the special WCS Extended version makes it possible to cover a distance of up to 629 m. Assembly and integration of the two standard code rail segments are flexible. The extended read head can read the extended distance without additional programming.

For extreme temperatures, the WCS read head with heating option is an ideal solution. An integrated heating element permits an extended operating temperature range. Also available with the outdoor version, this enables the systems to be used in environments with temperatures as low as –40 °C. The combination of an integrated heating element, supplied via the read head, and a smooth housing surface makes this possible. Commissioning in both ice and snow is also feasible and it also protects against the risk of condensation due to rapid temperature changes from cold to warm.

The WCS read head portfolio includes a speed option. The WCS3B read head with velocity output uses an additional switching output to signal that a speed limit has been exceeded.

The WCS2 read heads are the smaller than the standard WCS3 read heads. They are compatible with the WCS2 code rail and available with RS-485 or SSI interface. Due to their smaller design, they must be used with the aluminium profile system with guiding trolley. In addition to the standard version, there is a heating option available.

The laminate code rail from Pepperl+Fuchs is made of a tear-resistant polyester laminate that is not affected by oils, greases, and solvents. Because of its resistance to chemicals, acids, alkalis, and aggressive gases, the code rail can also be used in electroplating applications.

The stainless steel code rail from Pepperl+Fuchs is corrosion-resistant and can be used in temperatures ranging from -40 °C to 80 °C. They are resistant to flying sparks in welding shops and heavy contamination. In combination with the WCS Outdoor, safe and reliable positioning is guaranteed.

An ID pad is used to identify moving carriages: this short code rail segment is fastened to the mobile unit and detected by a statically mounted read head when it passes. This arrangement is also used for fine positioning. The ID pads for the WCS positioning system are available in stainless steel and laminate.

Pepperl+Fuchs offers a special solution for situations where the movement of the chassis causes major position fluctuations: A guide trolley decouples the read head from the vibrations of the vehicle and compensates for running tolerances between the vehicle and the WCS. The guide trolley is supported by the aluminum profile and the code rail, so that the read head is guaranteed to be in the optimal position at every point, even in the most challenging of conditions.

For especially long, straight routes and overhang installations, there are aluminum profile systems that serve as fixtures and guides for code rails. The aluminum profile also stabilizes the code rails and fixes them evenly along the entire length.

For straight layouts or navigating around horizontal/vertical curves, code rails can be easily mounted using a mounting bracket. Since the code rail is flexible, the mounting brackets and stabilization profiles can be used to easily create horizontal and vertical curves, lane changes, and circular movements.