Selsyn - definition
Selsyn - definition
Selsyn is an electromechanical device that converts the angular position of a shaft into an electrical signal, enabling this position to be accurately reproduced in a remote system. Its operating principle is based on electromagnetic induction and resembles the function of a synchronous position transducer. Selsynes are used in remote mechanical data transmission systems, especially where a faithful and continuous representation of rotation is necessary without the use of digital components or control electronics.
A typical selsyn system consists of a transmitter and a receiver - two identical synchronous machines constructed from rotor and stator. The stators of the two machines are electrically connected, allowing direct transmission of angular position information. When the shaft in the transmitter is rotated, the distribution of induced voltages in the stator windings changes, which causes the rotor in the receiver to rotate automatically, reproducing the original motion. Position error detection operation is also possible with feedback, used in Automation systems.
Selsynes have been widely used in analogue technology, especially in aviation, naval, radar systems, measuring devices and weapons control systems, where they have acted as position transducers, indicators or elements of tracking systems. Due to their ability to operate in harsh environments and without the need for complex electronics, selsynes stood out for their high reliability.
Today's applications of selsynes have largely been superseded by digital encoders, resolvers and other position transducers, but their operating principle is still used in some specialist systems requiring simplicity, durability and immunity to electromagnetic interference.
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