Synchro transmitter

Types of synchro transmitters

The synchro transmitter is an electromechanical device. It helps to convert angular data into a standardized electrical signal. There are many synchro transmitters, such as the rotary synchro, the synchro compensator, the encoder synchro, and the resolver synchro.

• Rotary synchro

  It is known as the synchro transmitter. It has several pairs of winding coils on its stator and rotor. These pairs have a specific geometric arrangement. The synchro rotor coil is excited with an alternating current (ACR). The rotor induces voltages in the stator coils. These stator coils are the theta coil and the alpha coil. They provide a signal that becomes a measure of the angular position.

• Encoder synchro

  This type is a combination of a synchro and an encoder system. It provides an electrical signal of synchronous angular data. The synchro part convert angular data into a three-phase AC signal. The encoder part converts angular data into digital data. The encoder synchro aims to provide more accurate and precise angular data in digital format. This makes the encoder synchro less susceptible to noise and error. It helps for seamless data transmission in many applications.

• Resolver synchro

  An angular resolver synchro works with rotor and stator coils. The rotor coils are the sine and cosine coils, while the stator coils are the sine and cosine coils. The angle port and the angle input coil align. These coils generate an AC voltage that depends on the angle of the rotor. The resolver synchro serves in many applications. This includes any case where accurate angular data in digital form is needed. It works with many motors and position sensors.

• Synchro compensators

  It plays an important role in improving the accuracy of synchro systems in any application. This compensator uses correction signals to decrease errors caused by resistance, inertia, or system artifacts. The synchro compensator handles errors faster than any physical system does. This allows the system to respond faster and improves its efficiency.

Functions and Features

When choosing a synchro transmitter, one that meets the needs of a particular system is essential. Various types are available, including electrical, mechanical, and optical transmitters. Each has unique features and capabilities that make it suitable for specific applications.

• Standardized output formats: Modern synchro transmitters commonly use output formats such as digital signals, analog voltages, or current loops to represent the transmitted information.
• Robust construction: These devices are built to withstand the rigors of industrial environments. They have durable enclosures that protect them from moisture, dust, shock, vibration, and other environmental hazards.
• Explosion-proof transmitters: Hazardous areas where flammable gases, vapors, or combustible dust are present require synchro transmitters to have explosion-proof or intrinsically safe certifications. These devices are designed to prevent ignition and contain any explosion within the equipment if it occurs.
• High accuracy: Transmitter accuracy is crucial in applications requiring precise control or measurement. Consideration must be given to factors such as linearity, hysteresis, and temperature effects that influence accuracy.
• Long-range transmission: Power synchronizing transmitters can transmit information over long distances without signal degradation.
• Multiple output options: Different output options for synchro transmitter receivers allow integration with various equipment and systems.
• Compliance with industry standards: Transmitters used in industrial applications must comply with industry standards and regulations to ensure safety and interoperability. For example, harmonics gas transmitters must meet applicable standards of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
• Wireless transmitters: Some applications may favor wireless transmission due to cost savings or practical advantages. These devices should have signal transmission ranges, such as Bluetooth synchro transmitters, that are sufficient for practical applications.
• Regular maintenance and service: Providers that offer synchro transmitter service and maintenance contracts can extend the System's lifespan and improve reliability.

Usage scenarios of synchro transmitters

From gaming to professional settings, the wide range of synchro transmitter uses showcases its versatility and ability to meet various markets' needs. Here are some common applications.

• Automotive industry: In the automotive sector, synchro transmitters are primarily used in differential gearboxes. They help maintain smooth gear changes and prevent grinding, essential for vehicle performance and safety. In addition, they are widely used in automobile testing, where they help measure the speed and direction of various drivetrain components during dynamic tests.
• Industrial machinery: Heavy equipment often has complex transmission systems requiring synchro devices to ensure smooth operation. They enable predictable control of power transmission, preventing sudden jolts or slippage that could damage machinery or cause accidents. In addition, they are widely used in conveyor belts, blending machines, and lathes.
• Aerospace applications: Synchronizing transmitters are found in airplane gearbox assemblies, ensuring various rotor and propeller shafts rotate at the proper speeds and directions for optimal engine functionality. These components are critical to the safe and efficient operation of aircraft.
• Marine applications: Differential gearboxes in boats and submarines use synchro devices to maintain smooth operation. This ensures predictable control of propulsion systems, minimizing the risk of accidents or damage that could jeopardize the safety of marine vessels and their crews.
• Robotics: In robotic applications, synchro transmitters ensure that multiple joints or actuators move in unison to achieve precise positioning and coordination. They are particularly useful in robotic arms, where simultaneous movement is critical for tasks such as assembly, welding, and painting. The transmitters enable smooth and accurate control of joint movements.
• Entertainment industry: Archers and professionals in the entertainment industry use synchro systems to align cameras. These systems ensure that multiple cameras rotate and tilt simultaneously, producing synchronized shots from different angles that create dynamic and cohesive visual content.
• Broadcasting and live events: Broadcasters use these synchro systems to keep audio and video signals in sync, which is crucial for maintaining seamless transmission and preventing viewer confusion. In live events, sound engineers rely on them to synchronize different microphone preamps with the main mixing console. This ensures that audio from various sources is perfectly timed for clear and coherent sound reproduction.

How to Choose a Synchro Transmitter

When buying synchro transmitters, there are many factors to consider to ensure they meet the intended requirements and specifications. Here are some of the factors to consider;

• Required output: The needed output must be determined before purchasing a transmitter. Transmitters with different output power levels may be suitable for diverse applications. For a long-range transmission, a more powerful transmitter may be needed. A less powerful transmitter may be used for short-range transmission.
• Application/Specialty: The kind of synchro transmitter to buy will be influenced by the application. As previously stated, multiple applications necessitate different transmitters. For outstanding performance in specific applications, they will be outfitted with additional features and capabilities.
• Mounting: Consider the kind of transmitter mounting required. Synchro transmitters come in different mounting styles: wall, panel, and pipe mounting. Portable transmitters may also be available for pipe mounting for service and maintenance personnel.
• Environmental conditions: The environmental conditions where the synchro transmitter will be installed must be considered, as they will influence buying the transmitter. Be sure to know the temperature, humidity, dust presence, and presence of corrosive vapors in the environment. These factors will determine the synchro transmitter's ratings and specifications to ensure it operates well without damaging it.
• Health and Safety Regulations: When choosing synchro transmitters, health and safety regulations must be considered. These regulations will influence the design and kind of the transmitter. For instance, if the transmitter is to be used in areas with potential explosive atmospheres, a transmitter rated for use in such areas will be necessary.
• Budget and Cost: Budget is one of the most important factors when making any purchase because it will determine the kind of transmitter that will be bought. However, when purchasing any equipment, including synchro transmitters, it is important to remember that the initial purchase price is different than the total lifetime cost. This is something buyers should be aware of when making a budget.
• Power Source: Buyers must decide whether they need a battery-powered or AC-powered synchro transmitter. This decision will directly affect the transmitter's mobility and operational capacity. Many modern transient generators have rechargeable batteries for high reliability and minimal maintenance.

Q and A

Q: What is the main function of a transmitter synchro?

A: The main function of a synchro transmitter is to convert the angle of rotation into an electrical signal that can be transmitted to a synchro receiver, which will then be able to determine the angle of rotation at a distance.

Q: How many types of synchro transmitters are there?

A: There are three commonly used types of synchro transmitters: the rotor-borne synchro, also known as the variable reluctance synchro; the rotor-wound synchro; and the control transformer synchro.

Q: What are the applications of synchro transmitters?

A: Many industrial applications use synchro transmitters, including aircraft, marine, and missile launch systems. They are also used in automated machinery and robotics equipment and to test and measure torque in industrial settings.

Q: Do synchro systems have any advantages over other systems?

A: Yes, they do. Synchros offer many benefits, such as being highly reliable, especially in systems that need to operate in harsh environments; they are also robust and can provide long-life service; synchro systems have low maintenance costs; they are accurate and can produce precise data; they also have a good resistance to vibration.

Q: What is the difference between synchro and a transformer?

A: A transformer only provides output voltage when the input voltage is at a steady value, but a synchro can produce output signals even if input signals are fluctuating or changing.