Friday 10th September 2010

The powerboat engineering team required a reliable linear position feedback solution for their compact electro-hydraulic ‘fly-by-wire’ trim tab stabilizer control system. Trim tab adjustment during competition is of paramount importance for maintaining high-speed control in variable sea conditions. The feedback sensor chosen was the ‘new’ PLS transducer supplied by Active Sensors. The ‘contactless’ sensor has integral signal conditioning, which dispenses with the need for additional electronic circuits and is available with a choice of output signal options. The sensor is available with a measurement range up to 1000mm (40”) and is designed as a cost effective replacement for linear potentiometers and LVDT sensors.
Commenting on the application, Edmond Husseini - Head of the Technical Office for Victory Team Dubai stated, "Previously we have used linear potentiometers and LVDT’s as the feedback device for our trim tab electro-hydraulic closed loop control system, but with limited success. Having tested the slim-bodied PLS0956-200mm (8”) stroke ‘contactless’ sensor with integral signal-conditioning supplied by Active, we now have a reliable linear feedback device providing the ‘noise free’ signals required for our closed loop control system”.

Chris Smith, Active Sensors Chief Executive commented, “We are extremely pleased to be able to supply high performance specification linear sensors for marine control systems of this type. The PLS sensor is a critical component in this closed loop system and this new product will be a significant contributor to the growth of our marine and automotive sensor business ”.

Active Sensors is a leading designer of high performance rotary and linear position sensors for motion control and measurement systems. Active Sensors specialise in contactless and contacting technology providing sensor specifications of the highest quality and accuracy. The company is strategically placed in Europe and North America to serve its customers worldwide.