Safety through single or multiple redundancy

Rotary encoders for partial, full and multiple redundancy

Many applications demand redundant solutions in order to comply with the highest safety requirements. Contelec leads the field when it comes to redundant rotary sensors – and we do not limit ourselves to single redundancy. Numerous rotary encoders are available with partial, full and multiple redundancy.

For certain applications, single redundancy is sufficient, guaranteeing that the system is failsafe. In a redundant system, if a signal transmitted by the sensor fails, the rotary encoder always has a second signal ready. However, if there is discrepancy between the two signals, it is impossible to determine which signal is providing the correct value. Triple redundancy can remedy this: if two of the three signals agree, there is a high probability that this value is correct. This knowledge is pivotal in scenarios where safety requirements are particularly high. Examples here include steer-by-wire vehicle applications and high-precision construction machinery controls.

Contelec offers Vert-X rotary encoders with single, triple and even quadruple redundancy. Our engineering team assesses the customer’s needs and, by adapting the standard products, is able to deliver economical solutions without costly development expenditure.