The THK SHS-LE is an LM Guide (Linear Motion Guide) integrated with a linear encoder, designed for precise position measurement, linear guiding, and positioning within a feedback loop control system along the LM rail directions. This product combines the functions of a linear motion guide with a high-resolution linear encoder, making it suitable for applications requiring accurate linear positioning and feedback.

Function Description:

The core function of the SHS-LE is to provide linear motion while simultaneously measuring the position of the LM block. The LM block is integrated with an encoder holder and an encoder head. The encoder head reads the positions of N and S magnetic poles recorded on scales equipped on the sides of the LM rail. This magnetic scale technology allows for non-contact position sensing. The interpolated NS magnetic pole pitch data is then output as incremental A/B-phase differential signals, compliant with the EIA-422 standard. These differential outputs are designed to be received by a higher-level device, such as a high-speed counter or digital display, which is capable of EIA-422 line driver input. This setup enables the SHS-LE to be used in feedback control systems where precise position information is critical.

Important Technical Specifications:

Encoder Type: Incremental magnetic encoder.
Resolution: Available in 1 µm, 5 µm, and 10 µm options. The resolution value is obtained after multiplying by 4.
Accuracy Repeatability: ± Resolution or less in one direction.
Power Supply: DC5V ±5%.
Max. Current Consumption: 50 mA or less.
Output: Incremental A-B phase differential output, EIA-422 line driver compliant.
Standard Compliance: CE certified, adhering to EMC directive (2014/30/EU), EN 61800.3:2004/A1:2012, EN 55011:2009/A1:2010, and EN 61000-6-2:2005.
Use and Storage Ambient Temperature: 0 to 50°C (non-freezing).
Use and Storage Ambient Humidity: 20 to 80% RH (non-condensation).
Max. Response Speed:
- For 1 µm resolution: 9.34 m/s
- For 5 µm resolution: 23.34 m/s
- For 10 µm resolution: 23.34 m/s
- Note: The maximum speed of the LM guide itself can be influenced by lubricant condition and payload.
External Vibration / Impact (Encoder section):
- Vibration: Frequency 55 to 2000 Hz / max. acceleration 100 m/s² (BS EN 60068-2-6,7).
- Impact: Acceleration 500 m/s² / activating time 6 ms.
External Strong Electromagnetic Field: Nonexistent (for the encoder section).
Cable: Bending resistant type with a minimum bending radius of R36. Standard cable length is 500 mm. Optional extension cables (KLE-L) are available in lengths of 3m, 5m, 10m, and 15m.
LM Rail Standard Lengths (Lo): Vary by model number (SHS20LE, SHS25LE, SHS30LE, SHS35LE, SHS45LE) and range from 220 mm up to 3000 mm or 3090 mm, depending on the model and accuracy grade.
Effective Stroke: The allowable block activation range is calculated as the rail total length minus 30 mm (15 mm from each rail end) and the LM block length. For example, for an SHS20LE01V+500L with a 500 mm rail and 115 mm block, the effective stroke is 500 mm - 115 mm - 15 mm - 15 mm = 355 mm.

Usage Features:

Integrated Design: The LM block, encoder holder, and encoder head are integrated, simplifying installation and ensuring precise alignment between the linear guide and the encoder.
High Precision: The magnetic encoder provides accurate position feedback, crucial for applications requiring tight control and high repeatability.
EIA-422 Differential Output: The use of EIA-422 line driver output ensures robust signal transmission over longer distances and in noisy environments, reducing susceptibility to electrical interference.
Versatile Application: Suitable for embedded systems, the SHS-LE can be used for designing, installing, and maintaining products that require linear motion with integrated position sensing.
Customization: The manual notes that custom products with different materials and specifications from standard catalog products are available, with delivery specification drawings taking precedence over the manual.
Safety Precautions: The manual emphasizes the importance of following safety warnings and cautions, including using protection gear, ensuring proper wiring, avoiding strong external magnetic fields, and not operating beyond the effective stroke.
Resolution Check: The resolution of the encoder can be confirmed by the model code printed on the encoder head (e.g., MES-EH-010 for 1µm, MES-EH-050 for 5µm, MES-EH-100 for 10µm).

Maintenance Features:

Lubrication: Regular lubrication is essential for the performance and longevity of the LM Guide. The manual refers to the LM Guide Instruction Manual [No. 1030-T34667] for detailed lubrication intervals and methods.
- Grease Application: Grease should be applied at an appropriate frequency. If the lubricant turns black, excess lubricant should be wiped off, and new grease applied excessively to replace the lubricant inside the block.
- Lubricant Compatibility: Different lubricants should not be mixed, as this can cause adverse interactions.
- Environmental Considerations: For special environments (clean rooms, vacuum, low/high temperature, constant vibrations), specific greases appropriate for the conditions should be used.
- Break-in Period: After lubrication, a break-in period is recommended to allow the grease to spread fully before operating the machine at full capacity.
- Scattered Grease: Excess grease may scatter after lubrication and should be wiped off.
- Lubrication Interval: While varying by use, lubrication is generally recommended approximately every 100 km of travel distance or every three to six months. The final interval should be based on actual machine use.
- Oil Lubrication: For oil lubrication, contact THK's IOT Innovation Division for details, as distribution may vary with mounting orientation.
Cable Management: Proper handling and fixation of the encoder cable are crucial to prevent premature line breakage.
- Bending Radius: The cable is bending resistant with a minimum radius of R36. Care must be taken not to bend it beyond this limit.
- No Twisting: Cables should be wired straight without twisting.
- Fixation Points: Avoid fixing the cable where it moves, and keep fixation points to a minimum to prevent load concentration.
- Cable Length: Adjust cable length to be optimal; too long can cause looseness, too short can cause tension.
Troubleshooting: The manual provides a troubleshooting guide for common issues such as pulses not being counted or pulse count differing from travel distance. This includes checking power supply, interface matching, wiring, cable connections, and potential encoder or scale malfunctions. It also advises checking for noise influence and gap errors between the scale and encoder head. For complex issues or replacements, consulting THK's IOT Innovation Division is recommended.
Non-Dismantling/Modification: Users are explicitly warned not to dismantle or modify the product without THK's permission, as this can lead to malfunctions.

THK SHS-LE - Lubrication

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