TM
ThreadChecker
Universal
Noncontact Thread Detection
System User’s Manual
Copyright © 2008 Kaman Aerospace Corporation
PART NO: 860510-001A Kaman Precision Products
Last Revised: 6/8/11 Measuring & Memory Systems
217 Smith Street
Middletown, CT 06457
www.kamansensors.com or 860-632-4442
Page 1 of 13
This apparatus, when installed and operated per the manufacturer’s recommendations,
conforms with the protection requirements of EC Council Directive 89/336/EEC on the
approximation of the laws of the member states relating to Electromagnetic Compatibility.
Please refer to the Declaration of Conformity or contact Kaman Precision Products for
details.
Copyright © 2008 Kaman Aerospace Corporation
PART NO: 860510-001A Kaman Precision Products
Last Revised: 6/8/11 Measuring & Memory Systems
217 Smith Street
Middletown, CT 06457
www.kamansensors.com or 860-632-4442
Page 2 of 13
ThreadChecker Universal
Kaman’s ThreadChecker Measuring System is a noncontact linear proximity measuring
system. This low-cost, easy-to-use system makes precision static and dynamic
measurements of the presence or absence of a thread.
Features Summary / Advantages
• Easy to Use
• Universal Electronics for All Sensor Types and Target Types
• Built in Self Test
• Small size for efficient system integration: less than 4 cubic inches (80cc)
• Flexible packaging and performance.
• Several sensor options.
• Flexible Switched Output Options (window or level comparator / inversion of limit)
available to user
• Low power consumption
ThreadChecker Unit
The ThreadChecker system consists of two subassemblies: the sensor with integrated
cable, and the signal conditioning electronics module with power and output cable. The
ThreadChecker electronics uses a standard 24AWG cable to bring +15 Vdc to +30 Vdc
into the electronics and provide outputs for the analog voltage and switch functions.
Theory of Operation
The ThreadChecker system is an eddy current system. The sensor coil is resonated
and the amount of impedance change in the output is measured by the electronics. The
proximity of the target to the sensor coil will cause the sensor coil to change impedance.
The signal is then processed and filtered to obtain an analog voltage proportional to
the target position or displacement.
Cable Connections and Power I/O Cable Color Chart:
Wire Color Signal
BROWN Vin 15-30vdc
BLUE GND
WHITE SWITCHED OUTPUT
BLACK Vout 0-10v
Copyright © 2008 Kaman Aerospace Corporation
PART NO: 860510-001A Kaman Precision Products
Last Revised: 6/8/11 Measuring & Memory Systems
217 Smith Street
Middletown, CT 06457
www.kamansensors.com or 860-632-4442
Page 3 of 13
Electronics
The ThreadChecker electronics has one switch and two LEDs visible in the enclosure to
provide various setup and status functions. The power led indicates that power is
applied and everything is functional if it is green. Red or flashing red on the power LED
indicates a problem. The thread or status LED indicates the presence or absence of a
thread or teach status (see application information).
The ThreadChecker electronics and sensors utilize SMA type coaxial connectors: female
on the electronics, and male on the sensor cable. Four probe configurations for
detecting internal threads are currently available from 2mm to 10mm, and two probe
configurations for detecting external threads are available, more configurations are
created regularly (check with Kaman sales for current configurations). The sensor must
be attached snugly (finger tight) to the electronics assembly for the unit to function
properly.
Adjustment and Calibration
The ThreadChecker requires calibration to the users configuration before use.
NOTE: solid red on the power LED means that it does not recognize the sensor or
the sensor is disconnected. If the sensor is connected and this condition persists
after a teach then the electronics does not recognize the sensor and it may be faulty.
The switched output can be adjusted using the teach modes. See application
information for more details.
Switched Output Operation
The ThreadChecker’s switched output is a simple on / off switch. The switch can be
adjusted to trip anywhere along the sensor range using application teach modes.
Cleaning
The ThreadChecker is designed to have limited operation while immersed in liquids.
Some solvents may damage electronics module, sensor, or power I/O cable. Clean the
unit with a damp cloth.
EMI Performance
The ThreadChecker conforms with the applicable standards of Council Directive for
Generic for Light Industrial and Commercial Use. Under some EMI environments, at
specific frequencies, the ThreadChecker unit may experience a change in output
voltage. In general, when exposed to those environments covered by the EMC directive,
the user can expect less than 5% deviation of output. Contact Kaman for specific data
or for recommended solutions if you experience problems with the ThreadChecker.
Copyright © 2008 Kaman Aerospace Corporation
PART NO: 860510-001A Kaman Precision Products
Last Revised: 6/8/11 Measuring & Memory Systems
217 Smith Street
Middletown, CT 06457
www.kamansensors.com or 860-632-4442
Page 4 of 13