Force Balance Inclinometers

What Are Force Balance Inclinometers and How Do They Work?

Inclinometers sense changes in angular position and the sensing element in a Jewell Force Balance sensor is the torquer, a D’Arsonval mechanism designed specifically for sensor use. The torquer mechanism (Torque Motor) is the fundamental subassembly in a servo sensor. An inclinometer torquer is intentionally unbalanced (Mass Unbalance) in its plane of allowable angular motion. When tilt is present, a torque proportional to the mechanism unbalance and the physical input is developed. The torque results in an angular motion detected by a Position Sensor. The Position Sensor output is compared to a reference voltage in the Electronics Module, and the difference is an error signal that is the input to a servo amplifier (Servo Amp). The servo amplifier output current is applied to the Torque Motor in opposition to the acceleration or tilt torque. At a constant inertial input, the Mass Unbalance angular position is minutely different from the zero-g position. The Servo Amp output current is directly proportional to the applied acceleration or sine of the input tilt angle. An analog voltage is produced by measuring the servo current with a Sense Resistor.

Features of Servo Inclinometers Offered by Jewells Instruments

Our servo inclinometers have set high standards for measurements in challenging environments. The following features of these devices have made them popular.

• These inclinometers possess rugged and compact design and feature a torque-balancing system, which helps them withstand mechanical stress of 1500g 1msec 1/2 sine.
• These models are available in analog output (±5V, 0-5V, 0.5-4.5V, or 4-20mA) and digital models such as RS232 and RS485.
• Our rugged inclinometer units are available in ranges from ±1.0 to ±90 deg. The output is proportional to the sine of tilt angle.
• They are designed for wide operating temperature range and can withstand high vibration and shock.

How to Choose Force Balance Inclinometers for Your Application

Force balance inclinometers are available in several configurations and the following tips will ease the selection.

• Type of output: These devices are offered with digital and analog outputs. The product of choice will depend on the application and project requirements:
  • The inclinometers with current output are ideal if you are planning to run them over long distances. These devices assure minimal signal loss and low electromagnetic noise.
  • Digital outputs are available with ASCII RS-232 or RS-485, ethernet and Modbus protocols.
    • For example, RS-232 is commonly considered for low data transmissions over small distances.
    • RS-485 uses half and full-duplex signals and are more appropriate for high data transmissions across large distances. The outputs are less susceptible to electromagnetic noise.

In addition to the above, the other important considerations to make are:

• Measuring range: This is the range up to which the linear output is measured in degrees.
• Bandwidth: The frequency range below the frequency at which the amplitude of the output is 3dB down relative to the input.
• Shock & Vibration: Shock and vibration specifications indicate the highest level that the inclinometer can be exposed to without causing a permanent change to the unit.

Applications of Force Balance Inclinometers

The following are a few popular applications of force balance inclinometers:

• Radar/antenna control
• Platform leveling
• Seismic monitoring
• Automatic train position control
• Linear acceleration/deceleration measuring
• Structural monitoring
• Ship and barge leveling
• Robot vertical referencing
• Weapons platform leveling
• Continuous casting for the steel industry
• Platform orientation
• Deviation surveys

Precision measurements are critical in many industries. These measurements enable users to make informed decisions. This understanding, coupled with our technology and engineering expertise, allows us to make the best force balance inclinometers for industrial and other applications. We take pride in our selection of servo inclinometers designed to meet or satisfy measurement requirements across industries. However, many people get confused when selecting the right inclinometer. For any queries or doubts, feel free to contact us today. Our experts can handle all customer queries effectively. They will work with you closely to understand your requirements before offering you the right solution.