What function does an incremental encoder serve?

An incremental encoder is specifically designed to provide incremental position information, allowing for precise measurements of movement or displacement by reporting position changes relative to a known reference point. This means that as the encoder rotates or moves, it generates electrical pulses that correlate with specific angular or linear movement. The system keeps track of these pulses to determine how far and in what direction the device has moved from its initial position. This function is crucial in various applications where monitoring position continuously is necessary, such as in robotics, CNC machines, and conveyor systems.

By focusing on incremental position information, the encoder allows for the accurate determination of current position based on a starting point, which is essential for applications involving precise control of mechanical movements.