Linear measurement is a common incremental rotary encoder application. BEPc has simplified the task by integrating the encoder, measuring wheel, torsion arm, spring and pivot bracket into The Model TR3 Heavy Duty TruTrac.  The TR3 is the focus of this new video from Encoder Products Company (EPC).

You can view our video on EPC's YouTube channel.

Wheels and encoders have both been around for a while (one of those much longer than the other, of course), so what makes the TruTrac such a big deal?  Simplicity.

Other solutions require separate components to be pieced together, and in some cases, fabricated by a machine shop.  Several years ago, EPC produced the original TR1 TruTrac which combined the rotary encoder, measuring wheel, pivot arm and spring into a compact, integrated unit. It's easy to install and adjust, and it reduces cost in most cases.

In 2010, we introduced the Model TR3 Heavy Duty TruTrac. It offers the same solution concept as the TR1, but in a larger, more ruggedized form.  Here's a link to the data sheet for reference:

TR3 Heavy Duty TruTrac Data Sheet

Notable features of the TR3 Heavy Duty TruTrac include:

• Rugged all-metal housing and dual torsion arm
• Heavy Duty Bearings
• 12" or 1/3 meter circumference wheel
• Knurled aluminum, annodized aluminum or urethane faced wheels
• Single or dual wheel configuration
• Internal incremental encoder with up to 10,000 CPR resolution
• Operates at up to 3000 feet per minute
• Easily installed in vertical, horizontal or inverted orientation
• Adjustable spring tension provides constant wheel contact
• Oil-infused bronze pivot shaft bushings
• Field adjustable connector exit orientation
• IP66 environmental seal

As the name implies, the the TR3 Heavy Duty TruTrac is intended for heavy duty applications.  Examples of these include:

• Corrugated converting
• High-speed conveying
• Metal roll-forming
• Mining
• Cut-to-length and marking of building materials
• Timber processing
• Mobile equipment
• and more!

Here's an example of a successful application of the Model TR3 in the corrugated converting industry:

Yes, the shortest distances between A & B is a straight line.  But I'd argue that the shortest distance betweenlinear measurement challenge and solution is likely through British Encoder Products Company.