Compensator Linear Buffer PCB

The Compensator is a linear filament buffer designed around continuous position feedback rather than traditional endstop-based buffer detection.

At the core of the system is a moving magnet positioned between two linear Hall sensors. As the buffer moves through its range of travel, the relative magnetic field measured by each sensor changes. The Compensator PCB processes these signals to provide a combined analog position output, allowing the controller to determine where the buffer is throughout its usable range, not simply whether it has reached an endpoint.

This continuous feedback allows firmware to distinguish between normal filament movement, increasing or decreasing buffer capacity, center position, and approaching travel limits. Because the sensing system is contactless, there are no mechanical switches in the position-sensing path to actuate or wear.

The PCB also exposes the individual Hall sensor signals in addition to the combined position output, providing access to the underlying sensor data for calibration, diagnostics, or custom control implementations.

This makes the Compensator suitable for more advanced filament-management applications where knowing the state of the buffer throughout its travel is useful, including multi-color systems, filament feeders, autoloaders, and tool changers.

Key technical features

• Dual linear Hall-effect position sensing
• Single moving magnet sensing element
• Continuous analog buffer-position output
• Individual raw Hall sensor outputs
• Contactless position measurement
  
• Detectable center and travel limits
  
• No mechanical position switches required
  
• Designed for closed-loop filament-management systems
  
• Compatible with controller ADC inputs