Abstract: An optical encoding apparatus for the detection of position and/or motion of a mechanical device includes a codescale, an encoder housing having one or more portions and a light-detecting sensor embedded within the encoder housing, wherein the light-detecting sensor is capable of sensing a pattern produced by the codescale superimposed on the light-detecting sensor, and wherein the light-detecting sensor includes a two-dimensional array of light detection elements having dimensions n-by-m where n and m are both integers greater than 4.

Abstract: An encoder having a code pattern on a carrier and an emitter detector module is disclosed. The code pattern includes alternating reflective and opaque regions on a carrier that includes a planar surface. The emitter-detector module includes a light source that generates light and directs a portion of the generated light at the first side of the carrier and a first detector that detects light reflected from one of the reflective regions. The reflective regions include a three-dimensional element for directing light from the light source onto the first detector. The element has a surface that is inclined at an oblique angle with respect to the planar surface. The code pattern moves with respect to the emitter-detector module. The three-dimensional element can include a reflective imaging element that images the light source onto a surface of the first detector.

Abstract: An optical encoder system is disclosed with a single pattern medium having a first coded pattern disposed on the first side, a second coded pattern disposed on the second side, a first optical encoder disposed toward the first side, and a second optical encoder disposed toward the second side. An optical encoder device is disclosed with a first coded pattern disposed on the first side, and a second coded pattern disposed on the second side. There is disclosed a method for using an optical encoder device to obtain information related to a motor which includes the steps of illuminating a first coded pattern disposed on a first side of a pattern medium, illuminating a second coded pattern disposed on a second side of the pattern medium, detecting light reflected from the first side, detecting light reflected from the second side, and analyzing the reflected light.

Abstract: Alignment of an optical encoder with respect to a codewheel. An alignment jig is used to align the encoder with respect to the codewheel shaft by mating with the codewheel shaft and with reference features on the encoder, which may comprise pins or receiving means for pins. One or more of the pins may be tapered to speed assembly.