Machines, components & failure symptoms

Resolver

An electromagnetic feedback device that measures shaft angle using analog signals, valued for ruggedness in harsh environments.

A resolver measures shaft angle using electromagnetic principles (an analog signal derived from rotating transformer windings) providing position feedback to a servo drive with high ruggedness against dust, moisture, vibration, and temperature extremes, generally at lower resolution than a comparable digital encoder.

Key facts

  • Uses analog electromagnetic sensing, distinct from an encoder's typically digital optical or magnetic sensing.
  • Valued for ruggedness in harsh environments (dust, moisture, vibration, temperature extremes) where an encoder might be more vulnerable.
  • Generally offers lower resolution than a comparable encoder, though sufficient for many industrial servo applications.
  • Requires a resolver-to-digital converter within the drive electronics to translate its analog output into a usable digital signal.

How does Resolver work or appear?

A resolver works using electromagnetic transformer principles: as the shaft rotates, the relationship between excitation and output windings changes in a way that encodes the shaft angle into analog signal amplitudes, which a resolver-to-digital converter within the drive electronics then translates into a usable position value.

What should technicians inspect for Resolver?

A resolver uses robust analog electromagnetic sensing, well suited to harsh environments, generally at lower resolution than a digital encoder's optical or magnetic sensing. An encoder typically offers finer resolution but can be more sensitive to environmental contamination or extreme conditions: the choice depends on the application's environment and precision requirements.

Frequently asked questions

What angular feedback does a resolver provide?

A resolver provides analog electromagnetic feedback on shaft angle, valued for its ruggedness in harsh environments compared to a comparable digital encoder, at generally lower resolution.

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