Goodbye to LVDTs in Recreational Vehicles

Linear potentiometers and LVDTs may have seen their last RVs. MTS Sensors has developed a C-Series linear-position sensor that suits the requirements of recreational vehicles: it is small, less expensive, and more durable than its predecessors. It replaces these previous sensors, such as linear potentiometers and LVDTs, with reliable, non-contact position-feedback sensors. It cuts costs by eliminating expensive signal conditioning and improves reliability because of the non-contact nature of magnetostrictive sensors.

Applications include steer-by-wire, trim tab control, seat damping in marine vehicles; and leveling and camper bump outs on RVs, as well as holding tank level measurement. Its base Core foundation lets users add application-specific modifications. When an electronics housing needs to be watertight, three discrete wires can replace the integrated connector, and the wire insulation can be sealed. For rugged environmental applications, the sensor’s modular construction gives the option of adding a standardized IP67-rated packaging to house the Core.