Value-for-money, precision angle measurement for joystick applications

As the exclusive UK distributor for Contelec, Variohm EuroSensor presents the following application note on joystick solutions:

The challenge

Joystick applications in an industrial environment, in shipping or in vehicles for the handicapped have to cope with a series of specific underlying conditions that pose extraordinary challenges for the angle sensors used.

The axis of rotation of the joystick is usually located near the top panel of the housing. Consequently, angle measurement requires angle sensors with features such as compact size, a specific shape factor and – particularly important – a measurement system arranged as closely as possible to the periphery.

In addition, despite their centre of rotation close to the edge, joystick solutions demand considerable electrical angles. At the same time, they must offer a high degree of precision and repeatability, combined with impressive linearity and life. It is not at all surprising that angle sensors are also expected to fulfil high standards in terms of sealing, robustness and safety, as well as low weight and good value for money.

The solution

With its lightweight WAL 315 potentiometer, Contelec now supplies an innovative angle measuring device, tailored to the specific needs of joystick applications. One of the key characteristics of the extremely affordable potentiometer is the peripherally arranged centre of rotation – just 5.5 mm from the edge. Combined with the noticeably compact, slim design, this allows complete joystick systems to be kept small. The WAL 315 enables the measurement of electrical angles up to 100° with ±1% linearity.

To meet high safety requirements, a fully redundant version of the WAL 315 is available. Power supply, ground and signal output are in duplicate. The redundant outputs can be used either as two independent output signals or, alternatively, the second signal output can implement application-specific switching functions (for example to define forward or reverse).

The WAL 315 potentiometer is potted in high-grade, temperature-resistant epoxy resin, making it extremely rugged and able to withstand harsh environmental conditions. This is evident in the specified protection rate of IP65 and permissible temperature range of -25 to +85°C. A further impressive feature of the potentiometer is its amazing durability, specified with a life of 4 million movements, together with the attractive value for money that sets a new standard.

Customer benefit – you profit from

 
• conductive plastic potentiometer designed for the specific needs of joystick applications
 
• unprecedented value for money
 
• peripherally arranged centre of rotation, permitting near-wall installation of the potentiometer
 
• rugged, fully potted sensor
 
• high-precision angle measurement up to 100°
 
• completely encapsulated system with high protection rate of IP65
 
• available in a fully redundant version (power supply, ground and signal output are in duplicate)
 
• redundancy allows two independent output signals or application-specific switching functions
 
• can be used in harsh environments (unsusceptible to dust and moisture)
 
• long life (min. 4 million movements)
 
• blind hollow shaft for easy installation
 
• extremely slim and compact total solution (8 x 26 x 28 mm)