Description
UniMeasure is the undisputed specialist in wire displacement sensors. Their unique modular design allows you to configure a customized sensor by selecting the measurement range, output type and degree of protection. This makes them perfect for automotive testing, aerospace applications and various industrial machinery.
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In the world of displacement measurement, simplicity, reliability and adaptability are key. UniMeasure has perfected these three pillars, establishing itself as the benchmark manufacturer of draw-wire displacement sensors. Its unique approach is not to offer a product, but a platform of modular solutions. At Álava Ingenieros, we rely on this versatility to provide our customers with a sensor that adapts perfectly to their requirements, and not the other way around.
The operation of a wire sensor is elegantly simple: a high-strength stainless steel cable is wound on an internal drum with a precision spring. When the cable is pulled out and attached to the moving object, the drum rotates. An internal rotary sensor (a potentiometer or encoder) translates this rotation into an electrical signal directly proportional to the linear displacement. This simplicity translates into fast installation, high robustness and long-term reliability.
The real genius of UniMeasure lies in its configuration system. Instead of being limited to a catalog of fixed models, they offer a platform to “build” the ideal sensor for each project. This unprecedented flexibility allows selection:
- Measurement range: From very short runs of just a few centimeters to measurements of more than 50 meters.
- Output Type: A full range including potentiometric (voltage divider), industry standard analog (4-20mA, 0-10V) and high precision digital outputs based on incremental or absolute encoders.
- Environmental Protection Rating: From standard units for laboratory environments to NEMA 4 / IP65 sealed models to resist dust and moisture in industrial or outdoor applications.
- Mechanical configuration: Different mounting options, cable outlet and cable types for perfect mechanical integration.
This customization capability makes UniMeasure sensors the preferred choice in an incredible diversity of industries: automotive testing (suspension travel, crash testing), aerospace (control surface deflection), industrial machinery, factory automation, medical equipment and structural monitoring.
FIRSTMARK is the specialist in wire sensors designed for testing. Its incredibly lightweight and robust subminiature solutions are the standard in applications where space and weight are critical. They are ideal for instrumentation of crash test dummies, flight tests and any test subject to high accelerations.
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In the world of test and measurement (T&M), the sensor itself should not influence the test result. Space is limited, weight is critical and conditions are extreme. It is in this highly demanding niche that the FIRSTMARK Controls brand has built its worldwide reputation. As partners of FIRSTMARK, at Alava Ingenieros we provide access to their wire sensor solutions, designed by and for test engineers.
Unlike standard industrial sensors, FIRSTMARK’s main objective is to create the smallest, lightest and most robust displacement sensor possible. This design philosophy is crucial to avoid the phenomenon of “mass loading”, where the weight of the sensor alters the natural dynamics of the object being measured. Manufactured from high-strength materials and designed to withstand extremely high levels of acceleration (G), vibration and shock, FIRSTMARK sensors ensure reliable data capture in the most severe conditions imaginable.
Designed for Test Lab Reality
FIRSTMARK engineers understand the daily challenges of their counterparts in automotive, aerospace or biomechanics labs. Their designs reflect this knowledge:
- Subminiature Footprint: Allow installation in incredibly confined spaces, such as the joints of a crash test dummy (‘crash test dummy’) or in densely populated aircraft components.
- Flexible MountingThey offer multiple mounting options to facilitate fast and secure installation in complex test configurations.
- Robust and Flexible Wiring: The steel cable and output wiring are designed to withstand repeated pulling and cycling without failure.
Critical Applications Where Size Matters
FIRSTMARK’s specialization makes them the preferred choice for:
- Automotive Safety: They are a standard in the instrumentation of ‘crash test dummies’ to measure chest, head and limb displacements during an impact.
- Flight Tests: Ideal for measuring the deflection of control surfaces (ailerons, flaps), landing gear travel or the movement of components inside unmanned vehicles (UAVs).
- Biomechanics: Used in injury research and the development of personal protective equipment.
When your test requires a displacement sensor that is virtually invisible to the test itself, FIRSTMARK is the answer. Contact Álava Ingenieros to find the subminiature solution your project needs.
