York Instrument YK173–YK176 Series Miniature Potentiometric Linear Displacement Sensors

Overview

The York Instrument YK173–YK176 Series comprises miniature, high-reliability potentiometric linear displacement sensors engineered for precision position feedback in space-constrained, mission-critical environments. These sensors operate on the principle of resistive voltage division across a precision conductive plastic element, where mechanical displacement of a stainless-steel cable directly rotates an AccuTrak™ hub-mounted wiper, generating a continuously variable analog output proportional to stroke length. Designed for OEM integration into aerospace actuation systems, industrial automation platforms, medical device mechanisms, and defense-grade motion control subsystems, the series delivers exceptional repeatability (< ±0.1% full scale), long-term stability, and robust environmental resilience. Each model is optimized for distinct mechanical load and stroke requirements—ranging from 76 mm (YK173) to 165.1 mm (YK176)—while maintaining consistent electrical characteristics and mechanical form factor scalability.

Key Features

• AccuTrak™ hub architecture ensures ultra-low hysteresis and repeatable mechanical-to-electrical coupling over >10⁸ operational cycles
• Single-turn, precision conductive plastic potentiometer with ±0.5% independent linearity error and ≤0.1% output smoothness
• Anodized 2024 aluminum housing provides high strength-to-weight ratio, thermal stability, and corrosion resistance
• Stainless-steel 7×7 cable (0.46 mm diameter) rated for ≥177 N tensile strength and engineered for low-stretch, high-cycle fatigue performance
• Configurable cable exit orientation (left/right), tension options (0.1–3.3 N nominal range), and mounting base variants (including L-bracket options per model)
• Wide operating temperature range (–65 °C to +125 °C) validated per MIL-R-39023 shock/vibration profiles and DO-160D environmental categories
• IP54-rated ingress protection against dust and water splashes; compliant with EMA 3S specification for electromagnetic compatibility

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The YK173–YK176 series is compatible with non-corrosive, non-abrasive mechanical linkages where linear motion must be converted to analog voltage without signal conditioning. It interfaces directly with standard 0–5 V or 0–10 V data acquisition systems, PLC analog inputs, and embedded microcontroller ADCs. No external amplification or calibration is required under nominal supply conditions (≤35 VDC, ≤12 mA). The sensor meets key industry compliance frameworks including DO-160D Section 20 (Environmental Conditions and Test Procedures for Airborne Equipment), MIL-R-39023 (Reliability Requirements for Rotary Potentiometers), and ISO 20685 (Human Body Motion Analysis—Sensor Performance Requirements). While not intrinsically safe, its low-power design (1.0 W max) and dielectric withstand rating (1000 VDC) support integration into Class I, Division 2 hazardous locations when installed per NEC Article 500 guidelines. All units are manufactured and tested in accordance with AS9100 Rev D quality management system requirements.

Software & Data Management

As an analog transducer, the YK173–YK176 does not embed firmware or require proprietary software. Its output conforms to standard voltage-divider behavior (V_out = V_in × θ/340°), enabling straightforward linearization in host systems via lookup tables or polynomial correction algorithms. For traceable calibration and audit readiness, York Instrument provides NIST-traceable certificate of conformance (CoC) upon request, documenting as-tested linearity, repeatability, and temperature coefficient data at three points across the operating range. When integrated into FDA-regulated systems (e.g., surgical robotics or infusion pump position monitoring), the sensor supports 21 CFR Part 11 compliance through external logging solutions that capture timestamped raw voltage readings alongside system metadata—enabling full electronic record integrity and audit trail generation per GLP/GMP documentation standards.

Applications

• Aerospace: Flight control surface position feedback (ailerons, flaps, thrust reversers), landing gear extension monitoring, and engine bleed valve actuation
• Industrial Automation: Hydraulic cylinder stroke sensing, robotic joint angle measurement, and conveyor belt tension control
• Medical Devices: Adjustable bed height detection, infusion pump plunger position tracking, and diagnostic imaging gantry alignment verification
• Defense Systems: Weapon platform elevation/azimuth encoders, armored vehicle hatch position monitoring, and UAV wing morphing actuator feedback
• Research & Development: Lab-scale material testing fixtures, vibration isolation table displacement validation, and MEMS packaging displacement metrology

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended supply voltage?
The absolute maximum supply voltage is 35 VDC. For optimal long-term stability and minimal self-heating, operation at ≤24 VDC is recommended.

Can the sensor be used in vacuum environments?
While the anodized aluminum housing and stainless-steel cable are vacuum-compatible, the conductive plastic element is not rated for outgassing per ASTM E595. Use in high-vacuum applications requires prior qualification testing.

Is custom stroke length available beyond the five standard models?
Yes—York Instrument offers engineering consultation for modified stroke lengths and mechanical interface adaptations under OEM agreement, subject to minimum order quantities and revised qualification testing.

How is linearity error defined and measured?
Independent linearity error is calculated per ANSI/NCSL Z540.3 and IEC 60770-1 as the maximum deviation of the actual output curve from a best-fit straight line (least-squares method) across the full mechanical travel, expressed as a percentage of full-scale output.

Are RoHS and REACH declarations available?
Yes—full substance compliance documentation, including SVHC screening reports and RoHS 2 Annex II declarations, is provided with every production lot shipment.