Viewing a thread - planter switches

T800

Posted 3/31/ 21:21 (#)
Subject: planter switches

TMAZTZ are exported all over the world and different industries with quality first. Our belief is to provide our customers with more and better high value-added products. Let's create a better future together.

Lee Co

Lee Co

Have been using "whisker" switches to turn on planter clutches on /Trimble . The switches don't seem to last. What do others use to control the row shut offs? Only need 2 wires for up/down - on/off . Does precision have anything or any other suggestions.
thanks Wicket

Posted 3/31/ 21:29 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Ditto, i need the same thing answered. I use a wisker swith to turn off and on liquid fert and they just dont last.
NEILFarmer

Posted 3/31/ 21:31 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Morris, IL

I have an Agleader on the master cylinder of a , been on 3 years give or take. I have it on the row unit at first and that was pointless. Master cylinder works perfectly every time. cornfused

Posted 3/31/ 21:32 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Manteno,IL

John Deere has a very good 2 wire switch I made my own mounting bracket on Kinze Parrel link. Much better than the wisker switches farmboy

Posted 3/31/ 21:32 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

North Central Iowa

North Central Iowa

I use JD implement switches for on/off on smart boxes and raven 440 for our nitrogeon system on a here is link to some pics http://talk.newagtalk.com/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=&mid=442...

Edited by farmboy 3/31/ 21:34

golfnut

Posted 3/31/ 21:33 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Central Nebraska

Central Nebraska

I used the whisker switches for a few years until it couldn't decide what was up and what was down.  Then I put a mercury switch on the three point of the planter.  This works well.  On our new planters we are using the factory deere switches that are on the row units.  One switch per section (wings and center).  I prefer them but I need to set it this year to change status with at least two switches changed instead of one.

farming4aliving

Posted 3/31/ 21:34 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Precision uses a push button, ours is 4 years old mounts on the parallel arm Sodbustr

Posted 3/31/ 21:36 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Western Iowa

Proximity switch works perfectly and don't wear out..... 4WD

Posted 3/31/ 21:38 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Between Omaha and Des Moines, 7 miles South of I80

Here's a link to what I ordered, for my JD planter ( = old tedbear thread) (part numbers on old thread, too)

http://talk.newagtalk.com/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=&mid=#M

Edited by 4WD 3/31/ 23:27

grainfarmer78

Posted 4/1/ 00:25 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Rowley Iowa

I have a switch on my that came straight from case then I put the John Deere switch in it to hook to my Ag Leader for steering & mapping. I will get a pic of it in the morning and add it here, has CIH part number on it. KMech

Posted 4/1/ 04:55 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Missouri

Kinze has a switch kit (g1k528, I believe) that includes two proximity switches, mounting brackets, and a tee harness, so that the system will run when either switch is actuated (in case one row unit falls down in a ditch/hole). It's the most reliable switch I've seen, but it's not the cheapest. The kit, with the harness, and two switches, costs about 4 times as much as an Ag Leader whisker switch (also an unreliable switch in planting applications), but it will be the last implement switches you ever buy for that machine, and it will give the most consistent operation. It's on/off at exactly the same point, every time. Whisker switches can have a very erratic break point, and it can change as the switch ages.

It is a powered switch, so it won't work on a two pin harness alone. It needs power, ground, and a line to return signal. Also worth keeping in mind, a two pin setup may send signal by putting ground on the signal line. These switches I'm talking about put power on the signal line, so using them in an application that takes a ground on the signal line would require use of a relay, and the appropriate wiring.

If one must use a whisker switch on a planter, the least you can do is not mount it on a row unit. My theory (why whisker switches work ok, just not on planters) is that on other implements a whisker switch moves twice per cycle on an implement. When it goes down, and when it goes back up. On a planter row unit, that whisker switch is moving all the time as the row unit rides up and down. If you must use a whisker switch on a planter, at least install it where it is actuated by something on the frame. Then, as the planter is lowered, the whisker is deflected ONCE, and when the planter is raised, it is released ONCE, as opposed to the continuous motion when mounted to a row unit. Row units will eat whisker switches withing a season or three, pretty commonly. KMech

Posted 4/1/ 04:57 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Missouri

I've never tried that, but it looks good. Especially if the switch is good, durable, and cheap. I guess that's a normall closed switch, that is actuated when the planter is raised, causing it to go open? RJBKSU

Posted 4/1/ 06:16 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

second the g1k528 kit. had good look with those switches 4WD

Posted 4/1/ 06:50 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Between Omaha and Des Moines, 7 miles South of I80

KMech - 4/1/ 04:57 I've never tried that, but it looks good. Especially if the switch is good, durable, and cheap. I guess that's a normall closed switch, that is actuated when the planter is raised, causing it to go open?

The JD part number on the switch, itself, is AT = $48.98 each

The JD part number on the JB bracket is A = $30.17 each

I had to supply the 1/2" bolt and locknut.

 

According to old thread (Thanks tedbear) it is a normally closed switch. I just bought two, recently, and only have bracket and switch installed, I still need to make up my own weather pack wiring and connectors, to my new STMM module.

One JD implement switch kit from Ag Leader is $110.00 and you have mentioned before that you were seeing some failures, with them, PLUS I didn't like the bracket that they used(for row unit installation). Now, after reading NEILFarmer's post about putting those whisker switches on the master lift cylinder, then that makes good sense and it wouldn't see the constant movement that you explained, on the row units.

I'll see if I can get the implement switch wiring done today.

(DeerePlanterSwitch 2.jpg)

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DeerePlanterSwitch 2.jpg (93KB - 635 downloads)
tedbear

Posted 4/1/ 07:44 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Near Intersection of I-35 & I-90 Southern Mn.

KMech - 4/1/ 03:57

I've never tried that, but it looks good. Especially if the switch is good, durable, and cheap. I guess that's a normall closed switch, that is actuated when the planter is raised, causing it to go open?

Yes, it is a normally closed switch. In planting position, the unit is being carried by the gauge wheels so the button is not depressed and the circuit is completed. When the planter is raised, the planting unit drops to the stops in the linkage and the switch is depressed which breaks the circuit. I have never needed to make an adjustment or use shims with these switches. In planting position there is a fair gap between the button and the frame. Maybe my planter frame rides closer to the ground making this gap.

If only one switch is used on a planter it is possible that the row unit being used might drop into a large hole. This might cause the button to be depressed which may have undesirable effects (shut off all sections). To lessen that possibility two of these switches and be used and wired in Parallel. Two switches can be used and mounted on nonadjacent rows. That means that if one row falls into that deep hole, the other row unit probably did not. Its switch will continue to complete the circuit. If the switches are wired in Series then both switches would need to be undisturbed and you haven't gained anything.

While doing this on my current planter I also made a third branch which leads to the tractor cab. My third branch is wired in parallel with the two actual row switches. It runs to a common switch so that I can override the implement switches in rare circumstances where this is desirable. For example, if I need to stop midfield and raise the planter up for some reason, my SureVacs activate and seed is dropped from the seed disk. This results in a gap when the planter is lowered and planting resumes. Realizing this, the operator can flip on the implement switch override which will keep the seed disk loaded. Since my planter is ground drive this is workable. Obviously one needs to flip the override switch back off when normal planting resumes.

Edited by tedbear 4/1/ 07:47

grainfarmer78

Posted 4/1/ 08:00 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Rowley Iowa

Here is the switch and bracket on my

Edited by grainfarmer78 4/1/ 08:03

(.jpg)

(.jpg)

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4WD

Posted 4/1/ 08:33 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Between Omaha and Des Moines, 7 miles South of I80

KMech - 4/1/ 03:57 I've never tried that, but it looks good. Especially if the switch is good, durable, and cheap. I guess that's a normall closed switch, that is actuated when the planter is raised, causing it to go open?

tedbear - 4/1/ 07:44

Yes, it is a normally closed switch. In planting position, the unit is being carried by the gauge wheels so the button is not depressed and the circuit is completed. When the planter is raised, the planting unit drops to the stops in the linkage and the switch is depressed which breaks the circuit.

 I have never needed to make an adjustment or use shims with these switches.

  In planting position there is a fair gap between the button and the frame. Maybe my planter frame rides closer to the ground making this gap. If only one switch is used on a planter it is possible that the row unit being used might drop into a large hole. This might cause the button to be depressed which may have undesirable effects (shut off all sections). To lessen that possibility two of these switches and be used and wired in Parallel. Two switches can be used and mounted on nonadjacent rows. That means that if one row falls into that deep hole, the other row unit probably did not. Its switch will continue to complete the circuit. If the switches are wired in Series then both switches would need to be undisturbed and you haven't gained anything. While doing this on my current planter I also made a third branch which leads to the tractor cab. My third branch is wired in parallel with the two actual row switches. It runs to a common switch so that I can override the implement switches in rare circumstances where this is desirable. For example, if I need to stop midfield and raise the planter up for some reason, my SureVacs activate and seed is dropped from the seed disk. This results in a gap when the planter is lowered and planting resumes. Realizing this, the operator can flip on the implement switch override which will keep the seed disk loaded. Since my planter is ground drive this is workable. Obviously one needs to flip the override switch back off when normal planting resumes.

 

I could have got by, without a thin shim too, IF I had cocked that JD bracket slightly the other way, then tightened it. But if Murphy's Law comes into play a few years down the road, then that mount bolt or bracket ever get knocked or twisted, I "might" lose my initial amount of switch indentation, for proper operation. This just happens to be the way, I did it.

Another thing, is all my parallel arm bushings were new last year, BUT my arms(holes) themselves probably have a little play, beyond new factory specs, too.

I happen to put my switches, on row 2 (wing) and row 6 (main frame) = easiest to get at on wing fold 8 row corn planter.

abordone

Posted 4/20/ 22:55 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

SW Indiana

SW Indiana

Nt jseyfred

Posted 2/20/ 17:55 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

We have a Kinze and two 's and was thinking about changing out implement switches to the proximity style like you have talked about. We do a lot of stuff while we plant and therefore have lots of implement switches on the planter to make all of the systems run most of which are whiskers. We are running hydraulic drive which is controlled by the factory dual proximity sensor kit like you have talked about, which works well. Then we have pop up, smartboxes, 28% in 2X2, and are spraying behind the planter too. My question is, can I some how tie all of the systems back to the proximity switches for the hyd drive? I would like to combine stuff if possible but i'm not sure how to accomplish it. Or do I need separate switches for each system? sparrell

Posted 2/20/ 18:00 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

jseyfred - 2/20/ 17:55

We have a Kinze and two 's and was thinking about changing out implement switches to the proximity style like you have talked about. We do a lot of stuff while we plant and therefore have lots of implement switches on the planter to make all of the systems run most of which are whiskers. We are running hydraulic drive which is controlled by the factory dual proximity sensor kit like you have talked about, which works well. Then we have pop up, smartboxes, 28% in 2X2, and are spraying behind the planter too. My question is, can I some how tie all of the systems back to the proximity switches for the hyd drive? I would like to combine stuff if possible but i'm not sure how to accomplish it. Or do I need separate switches for each system?

Since this thread is so old, you will likely get a better answer by starting a new thread with your questions in the correct forum.

Good luck. KMech

Posted 2/20/ 19:12 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Missouri

It depends on what kind of signal the other systems are using.

The Ag Leader, and the Kinze ISObus system look for a 12 volt signal on the signal return line. On those proximity switches, the pinout at the weatherpack connector is:

Pin A: 12 volts positive voltage
Pin B: Signal return
Pin C: 12 volts negative ground.

When the system sees 12 volts positive voltage coming back on pin B, it considers the implement to be in the "DOWN" condition. If other systems read the same way, they could be teed together. Not all systems work the same way. For example, I am reasonably certain a greenstar rate controller looks for continuity to ground on it's implement switch signal line. I am not certain, it has been a while, but in that case, it would not be (directly) compatible. One can use 12 volt relays to correct an incompatible system, but that does require the person doing so have full understanding of what he is doing. KMech

Posted 2/20/ 19:14 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Missouri

sparrell - 2/20/ 17:00
Since this thread is so old, you will likely get a better answer by starting a new thread with your questions in the correct forum.
Good luck.

That may very well be, at least most of the time, but I tend to more quickly notice people that reply to posts I have participated in, regardless of post age. At least, for me, that's a function of my post viewing habits. I may very well be the exception to the rule. jbprecision

Posted 3/12/ 21:00 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

I am currently trying to power the ag leader/kinze proximity sensors through my precision 20/20. I&#;m giving the power 12v but the signal wire is 5v. Is this why my 20/20 isn&#;t talking to it? What signal voltage are those sensors looking for?

Thanks jbprecision

Posted 3/12/ 21:01 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

I am currently trying to power the ag leader/kinze proximity sensors through my precision 20/20. I&#;m giving the power 12v but the signal wire is 5v. Is this why my 20/20 isn&#;t talking to it? What signal voltage are those sensors looking for?

Thanks KMech

Posted 3/14/ 06:36 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Missouri

The sensors need 12 volts positive on pin A, and 12 volts negative ground on Pin C. When triggered, they will send 12 volts down signal pin B.

I don't know what the 20/20 implement switch signal characteristics are. It's possible it is different. 5 volts is a common voltage used for signaling on some systems. It could be the 20/20 floats that line at 5 volts, and if an implement switch pulls that line to ground, that could signal implement down, or it could be something else. truckman94

Posted 3/14/ 20:29 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Can I use the Kinze Kit g1k528 to control the painting on my Trimble CFX750? Currently it only paints when the autosteer is engaged but I was told I can change it to detect off of a switch. What all will I have to do to hook the switches into the 750? KMech

Posted 3/15/ 21:13 (# - in reply to #)
Subject: RE: planter switches

Missouri

I'm not familiar with the trimble device's electrical characteristics, so I have only one half of the information required to produce an answer to that. If someone can share that information we could perhaps arrive at an answer.

There are &#;limit switches&#; and &#;micro switches&#; as switches that are inexpensive and readily available.
But be careful if you are selecting them based on price alone.

• "The micro switch malfunctioned as its precision was not enough&#;&#;
• "The facility stopped due to micro switch failure, leading to complaints&#;&#;
• "There are only options for micro switches and limit switches&#;&#;

In recent years, machines have become smaller and more precise, and the number of designers and device users who have this problem is increasing.
In the background, it is not uncommon for people to be unaware of the characteristics of micro switches when using them.

In this article, we will explain the basic knowledge of micro switches and their advantages and disadvantages for each application.

We will also explain METROL's "precision positioning touch switches" from the perspective of a "third switch" that is not a micro switch nor limit switch.

&#;What you can learn from this article
&#;Basic knowledge of micro switches and limit switches
&#;Three risks that tend to be overlooked when selecting switches
&#;Differences between micro switches and Metrol&#;s precision positioning switches
&#;A collection of use cases of precision positioning switches

We publish the [collection of touch switch introduction cases] that we would like to show those who are involved in design, production technology, purchasing, and maintenance who deal with switches!

What are the roles of micro switches and limit switches?

What is a switch in the first place?

As the name suggests, a switch is something that "switches".
There are three typical contact switches as below:

• Micro switch
• Limit switch
• Precision positioning touch switch

A switch opens and closes an electrical circuit (ON/OFF).
Therefore, switches are incorporated into electric products around us, robots, and production facilities, etc. to perform control.
First, we will explain the characteristics of micro switches and limit switches.

What is the difference between micro switches and limit switches?

What is a micro switch?

A micro switch is a small plastic-encased switch with a snap action mechanism and contacts. (See Fig. 1)
When a part called an actuator is moved up and down, the internal contact opens and closes, turning power on and off.

&#;Structure of micro switch(Fig. 1)

What is a limit switch?

A limit switch is a switch covered with a plastic or metal cover to make a micro switch waterproof and dustproof.
Its role is to detect the presence or absence like a micro switch, but it is used in a harsh environment with water, oil, dust, etc.
When operating, a part called a dog* is attached to the facility and used by operating the actuator part of the limit switch. (See Fig. 2)

What is a dog?

A part installed in a machine or facility to push in or back the actuator of a limit switch

&#; (Fig. 2) Limit switch operation

What is the role of a micro switch, &#;presence/absence detection&#;?

Both micro switches and limit switches play the role of "presence/absence detection or existence detection" because they notify the existence of the detected object when it comes into contact with the actuator.

What is &#;presence/absence detection&#;?

• To confirm whether there is a detected object or not
• Whether (the lid is) closed or open
• Whether it passed or not

and so on. (See Fig. 3)

&#; (Fig. 3) &#;Microswitch Applications &#;&#;presence/absence detection&#;

Applications of micro switches (limit switches)

Micro switches are used in a variety of places for presence/absence detection, to home appliances to industrial production facilities.

For example

Home appliances:

• Refrigerator door
• Vacuum cleaner
• Car
• Microwave door switch
• Mouse click part
• Electric tool trigger

Industrial products and facilities:

• Origin positioning of XY stage
• Opening and closing facility doors
• Confirming workpiece passage
• Confirming the position of jigs and cylinders

Microswitches are embedded in all of these presence/absence detection mechanisms.

General specifications of micro switches

Some common specifications include:

• Mechanical life* is about 500,000 to 1,000,000 times
• Electrical life* is 200,000 times
• Protection class IP40 or above (No waterproof or drip-proof specifications)
• No accuracy guarantee
• Unit price (around 100 to 500 yen)

From the above, it can be said that the micro switch is a low-cost switch useful in a clean environment where precision is not required.

*Difference between "Mechanical life" and "Electrical life"

Mechanical Life: Refers to the maximum number of times a switch can operate (ON/OFF). This can also be tested with no current flowing. It refers to the period of time before the switch physically breaks down or stops operating.

Electrical life: The endurance performance when the switch is turned on and off at the specified operating frequency under a load that keeps the voltage and current at the rated values. As the switch conducts current, the contacts wear out and eventually stop the current flow. It is usually shorter than the mechanical life.

For more linit switchinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

In other words, it may be easier to understand if you think of the mechanical life as the maximum number of times you can &#;push&#; and the electrical life as the maximum number of times you can &#;flow&#;.

What are the 3 RISKS hidden in switch selection?

The price of a micro switch is attractive in terms of design, but the cost of the switch itself (initial cost) is just the tip of the total cost iceberg. Keep in mind that improper use and usage can lead to increased costs.

Risks that lead to cost increases in the long term can be broadly divided into three categories.

• Risk 1: Maintenance cost due to repair
• Risk 2: Cost increase in manufacturing
• Risk 3: Cost of lowering brand reputation

Risk1&#;Increased maintenance costs

Repair costs due to switch failure (labor, travel, service costs)
Facility outages incur costs for maintenance staff urgently dispatched to the site to respond. This is the source of potential cost increases.
Appropriate cost management is required based on the purchase of spare parts for sensors and the track record of paid repairs.

Risk2&#;Increased assembly costs

This is the cost associated with installing the intermediate mechanism required for switch operation.
Installing a dog or actuator to operate a micro switch may result in costs such as increased space and parts, increased facility size, and increased assembly time.
Examples: Intermediary actuators, design/manufacturing costs and assembly time of dogs, potential lost costs due to space requirements

Risk3&#;Cost of lowering brand reputation

Even if the performance of the machine as a whole is excellent, frequent failures or malfunctions in individual sub-functions (e.g. door opening/closing, loading/unloading) and short stoppages can cause customer dissatisfaction and damage to the brand image.

This leads to
&#;Decrease in facility utilization/availability *1
&#;Opportunity loss due to idle machines
and so on, also a loss for the user.

You should avoid the situation in which an expensive facility stops due to a switch failure, as it costs more to repair a damaged brand image.
In conclusion, it is necessary to pay attention to future opportunity loss (switching to other companies, etc.) due to the deterioration of the brand image.

*1: What is the availability?

It refers to &#;the percentage of time that the facility is operating normally when you want to operate it.&#;
When the facility stops due to failure or error (short stoppage), the availability decreases.

3 cases of failure in adopting micro switches

There are quite a few cases in which the lack of specifications is discovered later, triggered by troubles caused by defective or damaged micro switches.

Troubles caused by micro switches are triggered when the lack of specifications becomes apparent later. Below are three cases.

Case 1: Using micro switches for harsh environments

Many micro switches are IP40 (non-waterproof, non-dustproof), so moisture, water, oil, and chips can cause problems such as corrosion and deterioration.
Assume that the user's site is an environment that leads to problems, even if it is not assumed at the design stage.

Case 2: Adopting micro switches when &#;precision&#; is required

If a micro switch for presence/absence detection is used for positioning or returning to origin that requires precision, there is a risk of instability.

• [NG example 1] When returning to origin with a micro switch on the XY table of a 3D printer, the accuracy was not high enough, leading to the problem of defective products.
  
• [NG example 2] When using it as a workpiece seating switch in a machine tool, the workpiece "floated" and accurate seating could not be seen.

Case 3: Adopting micro switches in situations where the load is large

If the electrical life limit is exceeded, or if the switch is used in an application where a strong impact is applied to the switch, failure will occur early.
Avoid using the switch itself as a stopper when using it to limit the range of motion of the machine.
If the load is large, the plastic case may crack or warp, or the mounting position may shift.

Commentary: Why are micro switches (limit switches) inaccurate?

It is better to think that the concept of 'repeatability' does not exist in principle of micro switches for presence/absence detection.
The reason is because there is a mechanism called "snap action mechanism*."

The "snap action mechanism" is a mechanism that quickly contacts and releases the contact with a "snap" via a leaf spring when turning on and off, and a micro switch is defined as a switch with this mechanism. (See the video)

This snap action mechanism generates a hysteresis*, and the reproducibility of the switch operation timing is not stable, which means the repeatability is low. Therefore, the snap action itself is effective in extending the life of the contact, but it works in the direction of lowering the accuracy.

*The birth background of the "snap action mechanism"...
In the past, AC 100V was the main power supply and a large voltage current flowed through the contacts, so a structure called "snap action" was born to prevent the contacts from welding or galvanic corrosion by quickly contacting and releasing the contacts.

*What is hysteresis?
The distance between the point where the actuator moves for the first time from the free position when the actuator is pushed in, and the point where it moves for the first time when returning.

&#;

Snap action mechanism = Operation with a "snap" sound by a leaf spring

4 points for switch selection

From the design stage, it is important to rigorously estimate the usage conditions of the switch.
Avoiding troubles before they occur leads to future maintenance and after-sales service cost reductions and customer satisfaction.

Below are four things to consider when selecting:

• How much accuracy is required?
  Check whether the accuracy of the presence/absence detection is sufficient or whether strict reproducibility is required.
  
• Are the durability and reliability appropriate?
  "How often does it turn on and off? "
  "Will the switch be subject to vibration or strong impact?"
  "Doesn't the switch itself act as a stopper?"
  Depending on how often the device is used and how many times the switch is operated, the switch to be selected may change.
  
• Environments that lead to switch malfunctions, such as water, oil, and dust, are anticipated?
  Take account of the location where the device will be installed and the environment in which the switch will be used. If there are specific environmental factors such as moisture, oil, dust, high temperature, low temperature, etc., it is necessary to select a switch that is waterproof and environment resistant.

• What is the range of impact in the unlikely event that the switch fails?
  Take account of the expected life of the device, the frequency of maintenance, and the safety requirements of the device.
  

So, what other options exist besides micro switches?
We will explain METROL's "precision positioning touch switches" that are different from micro switches.

What are the 5 reasons to select &#;precision positioning touch switches&#;?

METROL's "precision positioning touch switches" were developed based on the design concept of a contact-type switch with high durability that are versatile and can be used in a variety of facilities, and perform high-precision detection even in harsh environments.
Their uses are similar to those of micro switches and limit switches, but the development concept is significantly different from that of "presence/absence detection."

We will explain the five reasons why positioning touch switches are selected.

&#;High-precision positioning touch switches with various sizes and functions

Reason 1: Precise positioning is possible instead of presence/absence detection

Precision positioning touch switches feature a high repeatability of ±0.5 μm to ±10 μm.
Since there is no hysteresis, positioning is possible with higher repeatability than presence/absence detection.

Unlike micro switches, one of the reasons for its high precision is that it does not have a snap action mechanism.
Combining it with the machine coordinates of facilities and devices enables highly accurate positioning and measurement on the order of microns.

&#;Repeatability evaluation results

Reason 2: Long life

Long-term endurance tests are conducted using endurance test equipment dedicated to touch switches to confirm accuracy. (See the video)
Depending on the series, we guarantee an accuracy life of 1,000,000 times for short ones and 10,000,000 times for long ones.

Reason 3: High durability

It is so waterproof and dustproof that it is used inside machine tools that use cutting oil.
Unlike plastic switches, most of them are covered with a metal case and have IP67 (resistance to water, oil, dust, etc.) specifications.
For switches with IP67 or higher, a waterproof test is performed before shipment.

Reason 4: No dog required for operation

It does not require a dog like a limit switch, making the machine smaller and reducing assembly man-hours.

Reason 5: 100% domestic production, easy customization

All series are planned, designed, and manufactured at our factory in Tokyo, and many switches can be customized and made to order according to standards such as shape, material, contact force, and cable length.

Precision positioning touch switches [Introduction cases]

Many precision positioning touch switches have been introduced in applications such as:

• High-precision return-to-origin switches for XY tables and stages (milling machines, 3D printers, chip mounters, etc.)
• Positioning where accuracy is required
• Origin positioning for dispenser nozzles
• Origin positioning for small diameter tools
• Adhesion confirmation of jigs and molds
• Thermal displacement compensation of facilities
• Parallelization mechanism for medical surgical robots

&#;Difference between Microswitch and Precision Positioning Touch Switch

Background of the creation of the precision positioning touch switch

The development of the "precision positioning switch" was triggered by the increasing need for jigs for automatic equipment and high-precision sensors that determine the origin of stages.

When automatic equipment and NC machine tools began to spread rapidly, there were few sensors suitable for micron precision detection, and inexpensive micro switches and proximity sensors were used instead.

Because micro switches are primarily intended for &#;presence/absence detection&#;, micron-precision applications require careful judgment.
As a result, erroneous detection and durability problems occurred, and the "precision positioning switch" was born as a product to meet these needs.

Precision positioning touch switch: Introduction of 6 series

We have a wide lineup of precision positioning touch switches, but we would like to introduce the best-selling representative six series.

&#; Ultra-compact, high-precision [PT series]

World's smallest size, high-precision series

The series features small size but high repeatability.
Even though it is ultra-compact with a diameter of φ5mm, it has a repeatability of 1μm and is often used in narrow spaces.

[PT series] Evaluation by users who adopted

&#;&#;With a wide variety of sizes, we are satisfied with the delivery time and price. &#;

&#;"For seating. Accurate and reliable detection is possible. Best for small and tight spaces. &#;

&#;"Used to measure the thrust of our machinery. We adopted this ultra-compact product for use in narrow spaces. &#;

&#;click here for buyer reviews

&#; High-precision, high-durability switch [MT series]

Achieves precise positioning and centering. Ultra precision touch switch

The MT series is our most accurate series.
Although the size is slightly larger, the built-in "bearing" demonstrates a high repeatability of 0.5 μm.

[MT series] Evaluation by users who adopted

&#;"There had been a phenomenon that the line had stopped due to malfunction, so we installed it to reduce judgment errors. &#;

&#;&#;Previously, we measured the length of a workpiece with a side length sensor and distinguished different types.&#;This product is a ON/OFF type, but it can be handled by combining multiple items, resulting in cost reduction. In addition, the environment is harsh, but it works stably. &#;

&#;click here for buyer reviews

&#;Ultra-compact ball type [BP series]

Playing two roles of ball plunger and switch

An ultra-compact series that incorporates a switch into a ball plunger.
The ball-type contact allows for diagonal and sliding movement.
* Normally, it is necessary to operate (ON/OFF) from the "straight direction".

[BP series] Evaluation by users who adopted

&#;"It's convenient because you can hit it from any direction. &#;

&#;"It is used for confirming the return of the slide core of the mold.
The ball plunger and limit switch were installed separately, but this one is enough, and you don't have to think about the position of the limit switch in the narrow opening. &#;

&#;&#;With limit switches, we have to be careful about the direction of entry, but this structure was helpful because conventional switches would break if they entered from multiple directions. &#;

&#;"We use it as a backlash killer for product bearings.
&#;We think it's an ideal product that has both a ball plunger and a switch function in a compact body."

&#;click here for buyer reviews

&#; High cost performance switch [CS series]

The CS series is a best-selling touch switch that comes in a reasonable price range, with just the right size and a wide variety of shapes.

 [CS series] Evaluation by users who adopted

&#;"Resolution is high and reliable"

&#;"Used for moving end point detection of the device.
&#;The end point is in an environment in which it changes slightly due to the external environment, but the touch sensor can reliably detect the contact of the workpiece.
In addition, it's inexpensive. &#;

&#;"Even in areas where we are concerned about minute positional misalignment of the workpiece, the resolution and repeatability are high and excellent.
It seems to be reliable for long-term use of 10 million times."

&#;click here for buyer reviews

&#; Heat-resistant 200 degree switch [HT series]

A heat-resistant touch switch that can withstand temperatures up to about 200 degrees.
There are many introduction results mainly in mold adhesion confirmation and semiconductor manufacturing processes.

&#;Low outgassing / vacuum environment compatible switch [GN series]

Widely adopted in semiconductor manufacturing lines and vacuum chambers

This touch switch is made of materials that do not easily generate "outgassing" that causes contamination even in a vacuum environment.
Manufactured in a clean room to avoid contamination.

Summary of precision positioning switch series

The series introduced so far is only a part, and there are many other variations.
If the specifications and conditions of use are fixed, you can search by narrowing down with the button below.

Advantages of micro switches and limit switches

The advantages of micro switches are, above all, their ease of use, availability, and low cost.
Not all products require micron-level precision and tough durability.

There is no need for over-engineered precision touch switches for presence/absence detection of mice and home appliances.
If the total cost goes up, it cannot be said that the product design meets the needs of the user.
It is necessary to select the optimum switch with the right item in the right place, whether price is the priority or accuracy and usability are the priority.

Summary: Points to keep in mind when selecting a switch

As you can see from the three risks that are often overlooked,
&#;When the switch on the door of the home appliance is broken
&#;When a door with a safety device of a production facility costing tens of millions of yen is broken
the scope of impact and the urgency are unmatched.

If the facility stops, production activities will stop.
It is important to determine whether this is an acceptable case for general consumer goods, or whether it is an industrial product that requires professional reliability.

At the design stage, after considering what are the long-term cost drivers of the switches to be adopted, it is important to select from among the appropriate options without being confused by the initial cost.

You can purchase here

Metrol Direct Shopping EC Site [touch switch]

misumi.com

AutomationDirect

Feel free to contact us

Our engineers will respond to any questions regarding product usage methods or requests to customize products.
We can provide our best support if details about application, usage environment and what kind of workpieces will be detected can be provided.

Use our contact form below to contact us.

Our engineers will respond to any questions regarding product usage methods or requests to customize products.
We can provide our best support if details about application, usage environment and what kind of workpieces will be detected can be provided.

Use our contact form below to contact us.