A Method for Reducing Sub-Divisional Errors in Open-Type Optical Linear Encoders with Angle Shift Pattern Main Scale

In this research, a novel approach is presented to enhance the precision of open-type optical linear encoders, focusing on reducing subdivisional errors (SDEs). Optical linear encoders are crucial in high-precision machinery. The overall error in optical linear encoders encompasses baseline error, SDE, and position noise. This study concentrates on mitigating SDEs, which are recurrent errors within each pitch period and arise from various contributing factors. A novel method is introduced to improve the quality of sinusoidal signals in open-type optical linear encoders by incorporating specially designed angle shift patterns on the main scale. The proposed method effectively suppresses the third order harmonics, resulting in enhanced accuracy without significant increases in production costs. Experimental results indicate a substantial reduction in SDEs compared to traditional methods, emphasizing the potential for cost-effective, high-precision optical linear encoders. This paper also discusses the correlation between harmonic suppression and SDE reduction, emphasizing the significance of this method in achieving higher resolutions in optical linear encoders.