Space-saving design: The measurement sensor is fully integrated into the slider
Cost-effective position measurement system for a wide range of product specifications
From design to service, save time and costIntegrated absolute position measurement is used in a wide range of applications. Thanks to a high level of EMC protection, the new IMScompact integrated measurement system can be operated with products such as linear motors. (Photo credit: Bosch Rexroth AG).

Bosch Rexroth has developed the IMScompact Absolute position measurement series for the IMS integrated measurement system. This non-contact solution uses the magnetic measurement principle to allow stable and economical position measurement of linear guides of different lengths and specifications, thus replacing external linear position measurement systems. It can be applied more quickly and economically to a range of scenarios, such as effective position measurement in special mechanical structures, as well as small and large applications in digital printing, battery production and FMCG.

The new product complements the existing portfolio of integrated measurement systems, including the IMScompact incremental measurement system and two inductive high-end versions for high-precision applications.

The IMScompact measurement system records the position of the slider contactless with absolute accuracy of +/- 20 µm/m, repeatability of +/- 1 µm and speeds of up to 5 m/s. The measuring length can reach 17.8 m, and the guide rail is composed of several sections. Sensors fully integrated into the slider provide a high level of EMC protection, making this magnetic measurement system ideal for linear motor shafts.

Available in 15, 20 and 25 sizes, the IMScompact stands out from other magnetic position measurement systems due to its compact design. For even the smallest specifications, the sensor is integrated into the slider to save space. The key advantage of absolute measurement over incremental measurement is that the system can be put into service immediately after it is turned on or restarted after a power outage, thereby increasing the productivity of many handling and automation solutions.

In a new project in the field of factory automation, the integrated measurement system has proven that it can perform position measurements in a compact and economical manner in a linear guide, without the need for an external linear encoder. For example, it is used to measure workpieces to ensure quality or to record measurement data through a machine control system for further processing.

The second important application area relates to linear motors, which allow for the positioning of objects with high accuracy over long strokes, such as the application of a print head in a digital printer up to 5 m wide or a camera for inspection of a battery production line.

In the third application area, IMScompact is proving to be a low-cost solution for the electrification of conventional hydraulic shafts, for example, in combination with electric cylinders and servo motors for all-electric bending machines.

Significant time and cost savings throughout the life cycle

The integrated IMS measurement system combines the functions of linear guides and linear encoders into a single system, thus requiring fewer components and occupying less space, thus reducing the structural design effort. A fully digital selection and configuration process, as well as an online store ordering function, helps to save even more time.

Assembly and commissioning can also be done faster thanks to integrated electronic measurement devices. The supplied sensor and magnetic strip are already adjusted, so there is no need to adjust the measuring head in the field. To ensure a fast time to market, IMS is sold worldwide.

Thanks to the maintenance-free measurement principle, the new IMScompact also reduces operating and maintenance costs. The Bosch Rexroth service department can provide a quick replacement service anywhere in the world, and the rails and sliders can be replaced separately. To protect against contamination and damage to the grid ruler, Bosch Rexroth also offers a choice of protective straps.