How to Choose a Steering Wheel Motor Solution? Comparison of Incremental Encoder and Multi-turn Absolute Encoder Solutions.

There are two common configuration options for drive wheel steering motors. Each solution has its own advantages in terms of safety, structural complexity, and cost. In actual selection, the choice usually depends on the target market, safety standards, and project budget.

Solution 1: Incremental Encoder + External Absolute Encoder

In this solution, the steering motor uses a 2500 ppr incremental magnetic encoder. Since an incremental encoder cannot record the number of motor revolutions, an additional absolute rotary encoder is usually installed on the drive wheel steering mechanism. In some projects, a safety-certified SICK absolute position sensor is also used to meet higher-level safety requirements.

Applicable Scenario

This solution is generally more suitable for the European and American markets. Since local safety standards for vehicles and mobile equipment are usually stricter, the combination of an external absolute encoder and a safety sensor can provide higher safety redundancy and is more helpful for meeting relevant regulations and certification requirements.

Recommended models of common external encoders are shown in the figure below.

Solution 2: Integrated Multi-turn Absolute Encoder

In this solution, the steering motor uses a 17-bit multi-turn absolute encoder, so no additional external encoder is required. This makes the overall structure simpler.

The battery box on the extension cable of the absolute encoder servo motor is typically used to retain the encoder position data after power-off, preventing the position information from being lost.

Applicable Scenario

This solution is more common in the Chinese and Southeast Asian markets. Since no external encoder is required, the overall structure is simpler and the system cost can be reduced effectively. As long as the application requirements are met, this solution offers a high cost-performance ratio.

How to Choose

• If the project is intended for the European or American market, and has higher requirements for safety and compliance, Solution 1 is usually recommended.
• If the project places more emphasis on simple structure and cost control, and is mainly intended for the Chinese or Southeast Asian market, Solution 2 can usually be considered first.

HKT Drive Wheel Supports External Encoder Installation

HKT drive wheels are designed with reserved space for external encoder installation, so customers usually do not need to purchase an additional mounting structure.

However, please pay attention to the installation dimensions of the external encoder. Two common standards are:

• Shaft diameter 8 mm, shaft length 16 mm
• Shaft diameter 10 mm, shaft length 17 mm

If there are any special installation requirements, you can also provide the specific dimensions, and we can customize the solution accordingly.