Exact measurements – despite movement stress and heavy vibration

Posital has upgraded its acceleration-compensated Dynamic Tiltix tilt sensors with improved signal processing algorithms, significantly improving their ability to deliver accurate tilt measurements under difficult dynamic conditions.

While the previous generation of dynamic tilt sensors have been used successfully in many applications, the new algorithms provide more reliable performance in complex multi-axis dynamic environments. Applications that benefit from these advances include construction and mining machinery, industrial robots, and material handling equipment such as forklifts and cranes. The updated Dynamic Tiltix sensors are also suitable for safety applications, such as rollover prevention warning systems in off-road equipment and self-driving vehicles.

Posital's dynamic Tiltix tilt sensors are designed to provide reliable measurements of spatial orientation (tilt) in machines subject to rapid movements, abrupt shocks, and violent vibrations. Their exceptional performance is based on a dual sensor measurement system that combines MEMS accelerometers with gyroscopic sensors. The dual system addresses a major limitation of conventional static tilt sensors that rely solely on accelerometers. Here, the inertial forces that occur during sudden movements can cause measurement errors. By intelligently linking the acceleration data with the gyroscopes' angular rate measurements, the sophisticated signal processing algorithms in the Dynamic Tiltix tilt sensors accurately correct these errors - and provide precise position data.

In addition to reliable tilt measurements, the Dynamic Tiltix devices can also record and report accelerations and angular rates in three axes. This capability enables additional functions, such as monitoring complex motion sequences on container bridges or in spreaders.

The new Dynamic Tiltix sensors are offered in various measurement ranges, including single-axis (up to 360°), dual-axis (±90°) or as a ‘pitch&roll’ combination of 180° around the X-axis (tilt) and ±85° around the Y-axis (rotation). They offer an accuracy of ±0.3° and a resolution of 0.01°. The new Tiltix generation is programmable so that users can adapt the output parameters to their specific operational requirements. CANopen and SAE J1939 interfaces are supported.

The dynamically compensated Tiltix devices are available in either robust zinc die-cast housings or in compact, cost-effective housings made of fiber-reinforced plastic. The Dynamic Tiltix sensors are available with a high degree of protection (up to IP69k), whereby the internal components are safely protected against dust, prolonged immersion in water or high-pressure jet cleaning at high temperatures. The operating temperature range is from -40°C to +75°C.

For manufacturers who sell vehicles for use in EU countries, it is also interesting that the acceleration-compensated Tiltix inclinometers have received E1 type approval as an electrical subassembly from the German KBA (Federal Motor Transport Authority). The E1 approval confirms electromagnetic compatibility and facilitates the use of these devices in traffic applications.