In 1989, Pepperl+Fuchs introduced the WCS position encoding system—the world’s first optical positioning system—and has been continuously improving it ever since. Optical linear positioning systems are used for millimeter-precise detection of the position of shuttle cars and conveyor vehicles. The WCS absolute positioning system is based on the combination of a read head in a robust housing and a code rail made of stainless steel or laminate. This makes the WCS particularly suitable for use in demanding environments and for long distances. Because of its U-shaped design and its photoelectric scanning that protects against wear, it is resistant to ambient light. The outdoor version defies extreme ambient conditions due to the special housing of the WCS read head.
Smoke, dust, and temperature fluctuations have no impact—the WCS provides reliable positioning information, even at high speeds. The position value can even be reliably determined in challenging environments as it compensates for contamination by monitoring the received light intensity. The cutouts in the coding rail are practically impossible to get dirty. The absolute position encoding system detects a new position value every 0.8 mm over a large distance of more than 300 m and can transmit position values directly from the read head to the upper PLC. Due to a variety of integrated interfaces from RS485, SSI, IO-Link to EtherCAT, EtherNet/IP and PROFINET the connection to multiple PLC vendors is possible.
The U-shaped WCS read heads are particularly robust. They provide noncontact photoelectric scanning of the code rail. Even in difficult environmental conditions, the WCS read heads reliably determine position values. There are various options available to perfectly meet your needs.
To integrate the WCS into higher-level systems via standardized interfaces, Pepperl+Fuchs offers a broad portfolio of interface modules. Up to four read heads can be connected to one interface module simultaneously. Choose the right version for your application from various interfaces.
Rugged and flexible code rails are required for read heads to work over a defined distance. Our dirt-resistant code rails are suitable for curved tracks, inclines, etc. In addition, Pepperl+Fuchs offers mounting bracket systems for the installation of code rails, aluminum profile systems for especially long distances, and a guide trolley that keeps the reader on track even in high-vibration applications.
Pepperl+Fuchs also offers a range of suitable accessories for the WCS positioning system. The portfolio includes shielded twisted-pair cables that are suitable for drag chains, WCS read head and guide trolley spare parts, as well as protective housings for retrofitting read heads.