Position Encoders & Scale Rings
Miniature through-hole absolute and incremental optical and magnetic encoders providing high-resolution position feedback for robot joint control.
Dual absolute joint loops require low-profile optical or off-axis magnetic scale rings. US Digital (Vancouver, WA) operates vertically integrated domestic optical encoder fabrication. Celera Motion / MicroE (Bedford, MA) supplies ultra-compact optical readheads.
US Manufacturers & Suppliers
Celera Motion / MicroE
✓ NDAAPrecision motion division of Novanta specializing in direct-drive frameless BLDC motor kits (Omni+ and Agility series, incorporating heritage ThinGap slotless and Applimotion technology) and compact optical rotary encoders (MicroE Optira, PurePrecision). Specifically optimized for surgical robotics, collaborative robot joints, and humanoid limbs.
US Digital
✓ NDAAVertically integrated US designer and manufacturer of optical rotary and linear encoders, code disks, and inclinometers. Entire product lifecycle—from cleanroom disk photolithography and ASIC packaging to injection molding and surface-mount assembly—takes place inside a single facility in Vancouver, WA.
Gurley Precision Instruments
✓ NDAAHistoric American optical encoder manufacturer specializing in high-accuracy chrome-on-glass rotary and linear encoders, pseudo-random absolute scales, and ruggedized sensors for defense, aerospace, and precision automation.