THE COUNTER DISPLAYS OF DIGITAL READOUT SYSTEMS

The counters of digital readout systems have the basic function of converting the discrete signals produced by the transducer into digital values that are immediately displayed in clearly visible numerals. In addition to that basic function, the counters are also designed to perform various processing functions, which most commonly include the following:

a. “Zero reset”—by which the reference point for a series of consecutive measurements can be established at any location of the monitored travel;

b. “Preset”—designating the ability to enter a desired location into the counter for future reference, specifically as the target position for the next movement;

c. “Inch/metric conversion”—permitting the numerical value of the monitored travel distance to be displayed in either inches or equivalent millimeters, a feature valuable particularly during the current, perhaps decades-long, period of conversion to metric values throughout the industry.

Examples of counter displays performing the listed functions are shown in Figs. 18-30 and 18-32.

Fig. 18-30. The members of a digital readout system using glass scales, two of which, for longitudinal and crosswise slide movements corresponding to the X and Y axes are shown here along side the digital display box. The box is installed remotely from the machine slides for convenient observations; the aluminum housings containing the well protected glass scales and access by the pertinent reader heads are mounted on the machine slides and their guideways, respectively.

Fig. 18-32. Endless tape system—several major members, including the counter box and one of the two tape housings with encased tape and the finger, which is to be attached to the moving machine tool member for its positive connection with the tape.