Service Home How To Procedures Integrated Linear Scale - Schneeberger - Replacement
Last updated: 12/01/2018

Integrated Linear Scale - Schneeberger - Replacement

Introduction

The linear scale read head is part of the truck assembly; there is one read-head per axis.

The previous diagram illustrates the position of the Schneeberger truck/read-head assembly as they appear on the machine’s axes (Numbers X,Y and Z).

Also note the positon of the read-head cable junctions (Letters X1, Y1 and Z1).

Both of these areas will need to be located in order to correctly dissassemble and disconnect the scale.

As mentioned the diagram only shows the positions of one manufacturer’s linear scale truck assembly and associated electrical connection area.

Other manufacturer’s scales are installed in a similar manner, but the read-head may be in a different location.

Integrated Linear Scale - Schneeberger - Removal

 Caution: There is a magnetic strip on the measuring linear guide. Do not use anything other than a clean soft towel to clean the linear guide. Scrapers, screwdrivers etc. will permanently damage the rail. Keep magnets, (indicators magnetic bases for example) away from the linear guide and scale components when working inside the machine.

1

Disable the linear scale in the control. Enter 0 (zero) for the grid offset value.

  • X-Axis Parameter 266:0, 125.
  • Y-Axis Parameter 267:0, 126.
  • Z-Axis Parameter 268:0, 127.

2

Unbolt the way covers and slide them back.

3

Disconnect the linear scale cable from the read-head cable. Remove the cable clips and ties that secure the linear scale cable.

 Important: Take note of the cable routing and the how the cables are fastened.

 Note: The linear scale housing is permanently attatched to the truck (See illustration in the Installation section). DO NOT remove the housing from the linear guide truck.

4

Two screws secure the read head to the housing.

Remove the screws. Carefully remove the read head from the housing.

Keep the head parallel to the surface of the housing. Not doing so may damage the linear guide scale. 

Integrated Linear Scale - Schneeberger - Installation

 Important: Check the version of the scan head. The various versions require different dip switch settings in the interpolation box.

1

Check the housing for any type of contamination. Paint, solvents, or machining chips will damage the read head or allow incorrect readings.

2

It is not necessary to clean the scale surface of the linear guide, only wipe off what is necessary to access the read head.

Caurtion: Do Not use a scraper as it will permanently damage the scale.

Jog the axis to one end of travel and clean the accessible section of the guide.

Then jog the axis to the other end of travel and do the same; ensuring that the entire surface has been cleaned. 

3

Clean the mating side of the read head.

4

Carefully install the read head, keeping the mating surface parallel to the surface of the housing.

 Warning: Damage to the read head or linear guide scale will result if the read head is inserted at an angle.

5

Replace the two screws that fasten the read head to the housing. Tighten these bolts to .3 Nm or 2.64 inch-pounds (.22 foot pounds).

6

Route the new cable from the interpreting unit to the read head. Use the following illustrations and the notes taken from the “Removal” section to correctly route the cables.

Caution: Do not stress the cable, avoid sharp edges when routing and observe the proper bend radii of the cables.

 Important: Damage to the cables is the most common cause of faults.

7

Connect the scale cable to the read head. Hand tightening is all that is necessary, do not use tools on the union nut.

8

Enable the scale in the control, set grid offset and verify full travel.