ABSOLUTE ENCODER.

摘要

An absolute encoder comprises a moving member in which track groups (T2 and T1) consisting of a plurality of slit patterns bit-coded in accordance with digital code representing an absolute address such as a binary-coded quaternary code are parallelly arranged in a form from higher bits to lower bits; a light source for illuminating the member; photodetecting elements (1 and 2) which output detection signals (A0<+> + to A3<->) for each track by receiving the illuminated light through the slit patterns; and processing means for processing the detected signals to generate bit reproducing signals (P0 to P3) and read the absolute addresses of the moving member by decoding. This processing means is provided with operating means (3 to 20) for generating the high order bit reproducing signals (P2 and P3) which are synchronized with the rising or falling of the low order bit reproducing signal (P0) by operating the low order detection signals (A0<+> to A0<->) obtained from the lower bit track (T1) and the high order detection signals (A2<+> to A3<->) obtained from the higher order bit track (T2). If the number of the tracks is increased, it is necessary to provide an arrangement in which the light which illuminates the lower order bit track is received through a magnifying optical system and at the same time, the light which illuminates the track on the high order bit side is received directly.