Current Status of Domestic Production of Draw-Wire Encoders: Principles, Applications, and Selection Guidelines

With the development of industrial automation, construction machinery, and intelligent equipment,Cable Pull EncoderIt is widely used in the field of linear displacement measurement. In recent years, with the continuous maturation of domestic sensor technology,Cable Pull EncoderlocalizationIt has gradually evolved from an alternative solution into a mature and viable option, and is now being incorporated into an increasing number of engineering projects.

I. What is a draw-wire encoder?

Cable Pull Encoder(Also known as a draw-wire displacement sensor or draw-wire displacement encoder) is a device that convertsLinear displacement converted to rotary signalA measuring device that outputs displacement data via an encoder.

Its fundamental principle is:

• The test object pulls the stainless steel cable.
• The pull cord drives the internal pulley to rotate.
• The encoder converts rotational angle into electrical signals.
• Output displacement, position, or velocity information

Compared to solutions such as grating scales and magnetic scales, draw-wire encoders offerSimple structure, flexible installation, and wide stroke rangeand other characteristics.

II. Background of Domestic Production of Draw-Wire Encoders

In earlier stages, precision draw-wire encoders were largely dependent on imported products, primarily used in:

• construction machinery
• Port Equipment
• Metallurgical Equipment
• Automated production line

However, as domestic manufacturing capabilities have improved,Domestic pull-wire encodersGradually develop competitiveness in the following areas:

• Enhanced Mechanical Structural Stability
• The core performance of the encoder is mature.
• Industrial protocols support richer functionality
• Significant advantages in cost and delivery time

Therefore, domestically produced draw-wire encoders have become a viable option in the selection process for many engineering projects.

III. Main Types of Domestic Draw-Wire Encoders

1. Classified by encoder type

• Domestic Incremental Wire-Draw Encoder
  Suitable for general displacement measurement and velocity feedback applications
• Domestic Absolute Value Draw-Wire Encoder
  Power-off memory retention, suitable for high-reliability systems

2. Classified by output signal

Common output formats for domestic draw-wire encoders include:

• SSI
• RS485
• CANopen
• Profibus
• Profinet
• 4–20 mA
• Parallel I/O

This enables flexible integration with PLCs, DCS systems, and motion control systems.

3. Classified by itinerary scope

• Short stroke (several hundred millimeters)
• Medium stroke (1–5 m)
• Long stroke (10 m or more)

Domestic products now cover most commonly used measurement ranges in engineering applications.

IV. Typical Applications of Domestic Draw-Wire Encoders

construction machinery

For boom extension, angle, and displacement detection.

Industrial Automation

For use in production line lifting mechanisms, slides, and positioning platforms.

Metallurgical and Heavy Industrial Equipment

For displacement measurement in high-temperature, high-vibration conditions.

Warehousing and Logistics Equipment

Position feedback for stacker cranes and lifting systems.

In these applications, domestically produced draw-wire encoders have already established a relatively mature engineering application foundation.

V. How to Select Domestic Draw-Wire Encoders?

When selecting domestic draw-wire encoders, it is recommended to focus on the following key points:

1. Measurement Accuracy and Repeatability

Different applications have varying precision requirements, which should be matched according to system needs.

2. Wire-Pulling Structure and Materials

The material of the pull cord, the rebound mechanism, and wear resistance directly impact the service life.

3. Output Protocol and System Compatibility

Confirm whether existing PLC or control system protocols are supported.

4. Environmental Adaptability

Does it meet the requirements for dustproofing, waterproofing, vibration resistance, and temperature resistance?

5. Technical Support Capabilities of Domestic Manufacturers

Whether it possesses customization capabilities, engineering support, and long-term supply assurance.

VI. Domestic Production Trends for Wire-Draw Encoder Systems

Based on current engineering application trends, domestically produced draw-wire encoders are evolving in the following directions:

• Upgrading from general-purpose to precision-engineered
• Expanding from single-signal to multi-protocol support
• Deeply compatible with domestic PLCs/control systems
• Increased share in domestic substitution projects

In certain application scenarios, domestically produced draw-wire encoders now meet the engineering requirements to replace imported products.

VII. Conclusion

Domestic Production of Wire-Draw EncoderIt is not merely a price substitution, but rather a comprehensive enhancement encompassing structural design, measurement accuracy, protocol compatibility, and engineering service capabilities.
In practical projects, selecting the appropriate domestic draw-wire encoder requires consideration of:

• Application Scenarios
• Accuracy and Travel Requirements
• Communication Methods
• Operating Environment

Conduct a systematic evaluation.