Four years ago, Aebi Schmidt Nederland (formerly NIDO) approached Sentech for a solution to a sensor problem with its spreaders. Due to the harsh conditions in which spreaders operate, the sensors frequently failed. Sentech then developed a sensor solution.
The sensor assembly with a mechanical encoder has now been in use for two and a half years. The results are astonishing: zero percent failure rate, and the solution is half the price of the old sensor.
Problem: Rotary encoders failing due to harsh conditions
Rob Pieters, account manager at Sentech, explains the development of a sensor solution for Aebi Schmidt Nido: “NIDO came to us with a problem. The sensors (incremental rotary encoders) used on salt spreaders for dosing and distributing salt were constantly breaking down. Because these sensors contain moving parts, they are sensitive to harsh conditions (brine, frost, moisture) and temperature fluctuations. Furthermore, the drivers also used the part with the sensor as a step to check the brine level.”
Sentech then worked with Aebi Schmidt engineers to devise a solution with a shaftless mechanical encoder: waterproof, contactless, with an O-ring seal, and with a sturdy low housing so drivers could no longer step on that part. The sensor solution is also fully compatible with all salt spreaders who are already driving on the road.
Problem analysis at Sentech leads to an effective sensor solution
Sentech first thoroughly analyzed the problem by studying the usage conditions and operational requirements in detail. Pieters: “The following questions play a big role in this: What should the sensor do? Where will the sensor be placed and what are the conditions? This leads to a set of realistic requirements and constraints. We then search for the optimal sensor, cabling, connectors, and housing. We are always honest in such a development process. If we cannot deliver a solution, we say so. In those cases, I simply refer companies to businesses that can. Because I believe you should always help someone if it doesn't cost you anything.”
According to Pieters, however, it rarely happens that Sentech cannot develop a solution. “Sentech can do anything. There is a solution for every sensor issue, but that solution must, of course, be affordable and economically viable. At Aebi Schmidt, we succeeded in developing a custom sensor assembly with a mechanical encoder, cabling, connectors, and a robust housing. We not only expected the performance to be excellent; the assembly is also half the price of the old sensor.”
