Movable element for inductive and optical evaluation of a position sensor

Abstract

The invention relates to a movable element (10) for a position sensor (100), in particular for a steer-by-wire system (201) of a vehicle (200), comprising: - at least one vane (12) for inductive position detection of the movable element (10); - a measuring device (20) based on a further physical measuring principle for position detection of the movable element (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a movable element having the features of a first independent claim, a position sensor having the features of a second independent claim, a method having the features of a third independent claim, a computer program product having the features of an independent computer program product claim, a computer-readable data carrier having the features of an independent claim relating to a computer-readable data carrier, a control unit having the features of an independent claim relating to a control unit, and a vehicle having the features of an independent vehicle claim. Background Technology

[0002] Position sensors based on the physical measurement principle of induction are known. These sensors can be used, for example, to determine the (rotational) position, particularly the angle, of a rotating shaft. This could be relevant, for example, in the steering mechanisms of vehicles, such as in steering-by-wire systems.

[0003] The existing technology has drawbacks here. The inductive position sensor (and other known position sensors) is at least theoretically susceptible to common-mode interference (so-called "common cause failure") attributable to a common cause (which in particular can affect the functionality of the position sensor). For example, strong electric and / or magnetic fields can affect the (inductive) position sensor, causing it to operate at least less effectively. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, the objective of this invention is to overcome at least partially one of the aforementioned disadvantages. In particular, the objective is to provide a more robust position sensor, which preferably provides better, more reliable, and / or more robust measurement results. Here, particularly statistically, it is possible to extend the availability of the position sensor used for position detection, wherein the position sensor preferably continues to be able to perform position detection, advantageously even under (strong) external common-mode interference. Thus, one objective may be to improve security. Furthermore, one objective may be to provide improved fault detection and / or improved verification of the position sensor and its sensor data.

[0005] The aforementioned tasks are accomplished by a movable element having the features of the first independent claim, a position sensor having the features of the second independent claim, a method having the features of the third independent claim, a computer program product having the features of the fourth independent claim, a computer-readable data carrier having the features of the fifth independent claim, a control unit having the features of the sixth independent claim, and a vehicle having the features of the seventh independent claim. Other features and details of the invention are derived from the dependent claims, the specification, and the drawings. Here, the features and details described in relation to the movable element according to the invention are of course also applicable to the position sensor according to the invention and / or the method according to the invention and / or the computer program product according to the invention and / or the computer-readable data carrier according to the invention and / or the control unit according to the invention and / or the vehicle according to the invention, and vice versa, so that the disclosures regarding the various aspects of the invention can always be referenced mutually. In particular, the advantages described in the scope of the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and / or seventh aspects also apply to the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and / or seventh aspects, respectively.

[0006] The aforementioned task is solved according to the first aspect by a movable element for a position sensor, particularly for a steer-by-wire system of a vehicle, said movable element comprising:

[0007] - A ring inside a wing for sensing the position of the movable element.

[0008] - A measuring device based on another physical measurement principle for position detection of the movable element.

[0009] Here, movable elements, position sensors, methods, computer program products, computer-readable data carriers, control units and / or vehicles may be specifically designed for use in drive-by-wire systems, pedals (e.g., accelerator pedal, brake pedal, clutch), general drive-by-wire systems and / or brake-by-wire systems.

[0010] Particularly preferably, at least two preferred different physical measurement principles can be combined in a (preferably only one) movable element and / or sensor, especially a position sensor. In particular, the measuring device can allow additional (especially different) physical measurement principles different from those used for inductive position detection. This at least partially reduces the aforementioned disadvantages. In particular, the effects of common-mode interference can be reduced and / or completely prevented. Therefore, complete position detection failure can be prevented (in the worst case). This enables a position detection system that is not only designed to be "fail-safe" (e.g., in power steering, in the event of failure, simply disabling the assist while the driver can still continue steering), but also advantageously designed to be "fail-tolerant" and / or "fail-safe" (wherein, preferably, for example, in a steering-by-wire system, continued operation can be ensured even when at least one position detection fails). Here, when position detection by physical measurement methods fails, at least one additional, preferably different, physical measurement method can preferably continue to allow position detection.

[0011] Preferably, the sensing position detection and / or the measuring device for position detection via another physical measurement principle can be designed with at least dual redundancy. Therefore, it can be specified that at least two measuring devices are provided. It can be specified that at least two vanes and / or two sensing elements are provided. Preferably, the separately redundant components are independent of each other and / or maximally (geometrically) spaced apart (e.g., along the periphery), so that failure of one component leads to failure of the other component with minimal probability. For example, it can be specified to use opposing vanes and / or to arrange the sensing elements, especially with respect to movable elements, opposite each other.

[0012] Particularly preferably, this eliminates the need for (spatially) separate or individual (position) sensors for different physical measurement principles. Instead, the different physical measurement principles can be integrated into or implemented through a single movable element and / or sensor. An example of this is a movable element (see below) capable of both inductive and optical detection. This further allows for smaller installation space and / or lighter weight.

[0013] The inner and / or outer rings can be designed substantially flat and / or planar. The inner and / or outer rings can have an outer and / or inner circular outer shape. Thus, in the simplest case, a disc preferably including a central hole can be involved. It can be specified that the inner ring is centrally located on a (central) rotation axis to enable position detection, particularly the position detection of the (rotation) angle of the rotation axis. For example, this could be the rotation axis of a steer-by-wire system, such as on a steering wheel (especially the steering shaft), in a transmission, on an engine, and / or (in a vehicle) on a lift rod. During operation, the ring can rotate, particularly non-rotatably with respect to the rotation axis coupled thereon. The movement of the ring can be determined within the range of position detection, preferably by at least one flap, particularly fixedly coupled to the inner and / or outer rings. The inner and / or outer rings can extend substantially in the xy plane (wherein, particularly the x, y, and z directions, a right-hand drive can be formed). The inner and / or outer rings may have a thickness (along the z-direction) between 0.01 and 100 mm, preferably between 0.1 and 10 mm, more preferably between 0.3 and 6 mm, particularly preferably between 0.5 and 4 mm, and ideally between 1 and 2 mm. The movable element and / or the inner and / or outer rings may have a diameter (especially perpendicular to the z-direction along the x and / or y-directions) between 1 and 200 mm, preferably between 10 and 100 mm, more preferably between 20 and 80 mm, particularly preferably between 30 and 70 mm, and ideally between 40 and 60 mm.

[0014] Here, the inner ring and / or the outer ring and / or the at least one wing can be made of a conductive material to advantageously enable charge movement for sensing position detection. In particular, eddy currents can be induced in the inner ring and / or the at least one wing, which can be sensed by a sensing element. Preferably, the inner ring and / or the outer ring and / or the at least one wing is made of metal, such as sheet metal (easily formable), high-quality steel (especially durable), and / or copper (especially highly conductive). Here, the inner ring and / or the outer ring and / or the at least one wing can be formed as a continuous component, and preferably manufactured from, in particular, continuous stampings. Therefore, the inner ring and / or the outer ring and / or the at least one wing is preferably stamped from a single material. Therefore, the inner ring and / or the outer ring and / or the at least one wing can be formed as stampings and / or stamped bends, which enables particularly advantageous, simple, fast, and / or robust manufacturing. It can also be specified that openings and / or fin notches are provided. Particularly advantageously, this allows two or all different physical measurement principles to be implemented in one and / or through one movable element and / or sensor.

[0015] Here, at least one winglet, and in particular all winglets, can be disposed on the inner ring and / or the outer ring, particularly connected by a material locking mechanism. Thus, the winglet can be disposed on the outermost circumferential edge of the inner ring, and particularly constitutes a local extension of the inner ring, especially in the xy plane, with an increased distance from the midpoint / symmetry point. Here, the at least one winglet, particularly due to its (geometric design), enables inductive measurement, advantageously based on the periodic approach and / or interval of the inner ring and / or winglets, particularly with respect to (complementary) sensing elements (by rotation), which are preferably fixed in position, for example, further (radially) outside and / or below or above (in another plane). Here, the winglet can have the same thickness as the inner ring and / or the outer ring. Here, the winglets can have a width (especially a width perpendicular to the z-direction along the x-direction and / or y-direction), said width being between 0.1 and 200 mm, preferably between 0.5 and 50 mm, more preferably between 1 and 25 mm, particularly preferably between 3 and 20 mm, and ideally between 5 and 15 mm. A larger width can provide a stronger (inductive) sensor signal. A smaller width allows for a smaller structural space and / or reduced weight. The outer shape of the at least one winglet (the maximum distance to the midpoint of the inner ring) can be designed circularly. The inner ring, the outer ring, the at least one winglet, and / or all winglets can be hollow or form cavities to advantageously save weight and / or material.

[0016] A sensing element can be installed here, the sensing element having a transmitting coil ( Figure 5 and Figure 6 30a (dashed circle) and at least one receiving coil ( Figure 5 and Figure 6(30b, shaded with a diagonal line). The transmitting coil and / or receiving coil can be manufactured planarly, particularly in one or more layers of a circuit board (PCB). These transmitting coils and / or receiving coils preferably do not rotate with the remaining components shown and / or can be arranged independently, for example, in a plane below or above them, particularly in the circuit board. Preferably, the transmitting coil can emit a transmitting signal, such as a high-frequency electromagnetic wave, which induces eddy currents in at least one, preferably all, vanes. The transmitting coil can be designed in a circular and / or helical shape, particularly perpendicular to the axis of rotation. The eddy currents can be detected accordingly by the receiving coil (e.g., inductively). A measurement signal dependent on the (angular) position of the vanes can thus be measured. The (angular) position can be determined by the measurement signal. It can be specified that the outer ring has at least one gap. The gap can be formed as a complete interruption in the material of the outer ring. Therefore, the eddy currents generated by the sensing element, especially the transmitting coil, cannot flow (at this location) in the outer ring. This enables more accurate measurements, as the eddy currents advantageously flow only or initially in the blade rather than (otherwise continuously) in the outer ring. It can be specified that the gap only partially interrupts the width of the outer ring (especially in the radial direction). This at least partially suppresses the corresponding eddy currents, while the remaining portion of the outer ring still achieves good mechanical stability. This allows the current path of the eddy currents to be at least further spaced from the sensing element, especially the receiving coil, which in particular allows for more accurate measurement and thus determination of the (angular) position of the at least one blade. The at least one blade, the inner ring, the outer ring, and / or the at least one measuring device can rotate here, especially about a point of symmetry, which can, for example, be substantially at the center of the arrangement and / or (at the center) on a rotational axis. Here, a rotational fastening device can be present, especially on the central rotational axis, for example, along the periphery of the rotational axis. In other words, an inner rotor, especially with inner shaft coupling, can be involved. Here, especially during rotation, the sensing element can preferably remain in a fixed position, and therefore not rotate. In this way, sensing measurements can be allowed by the rotation of the blades, since the sensing element does not rotate with them. It can also be specified that the outer ring, especially at least partially, preferably radially outward, has rotational fastening, for example, to the engine and / or transmission. In other words, it can involve an outer rotor, especially with hollow shaft coupling. Here, a support portion can be provided on the outer side, exemplarily. It can also be specified that the outer ring merely forms an extension of the at least one blade. In other words, the at least one gap can be designed so large that a section of the outer ring overlaps with the at least one blade, and thus appears as if there is no outer ring. In other words, a design that can be achieved without an outer ring (and / or an inner ring) is also conceivable.In other words, it can be specified that the inner ring and / or the outer ring are very narrow or not at all (infinitely narrow or infinitesimally narrow). For example, the outer ring can be omitted, and the at least one blade is only provided on the inner ring. Similarly, it is conceivable that the outer ring has at least one or more slits, and the material of the outer ring terminates substantially radially flush with the at least one blade (so that it appears, in particular, that there is no outer ring present, see above). It is also conceivable that the inner ring is omitted, and the at least one blade is directly connected to the rotating shaft (e.g., welded). Here, the outer ring can be provided or not (see above). Preferably, the at least one blade, the inner ring, and / or the outer ring (still) enable measurements utilizing at least two different measurement principles. The slits may have a width (especially in the circumferential direction of the outer ring) between 0.00001 and 100 mm, preferably between 0.0001 and 10 mm, preferably between 0.001 and 1 mm, preferably between 0.005 and 0.7 mm, particularly preferably between 0.01 and 0.3 mm, and ideally between 0.05 and 0.15 mm. Preferably, the number of slits corresponds to the number of blades. Particularly preferably, the slits are symmetrically, especially centrally, positioned between two blades. It can be specified that when one less slit is provided, a higher thickness is provided for the outer ring, the inner ring, and / or the at least one blade. This can achieve sufficient and / or improved stability. It can also be specified that the outer ring is reinforced, particularly locally, preferably near the at least one slit.

[0017] The measuring device here can achieve position detection, particularly due to its (geometric design), advantageously due to the periodic approach and / or interval of the inner ring, the outer ring, and / or the vanes, especially relative to a (complementary) mating measuring device (by rotation), which is preferably fixed in position. Thus, corresponding additional sensor signals can be provided by the measuring device and / or the mating measuring device, which are provided to a control unit, for example, via a data connection. The measuring device can be disposed here in the inner ring, the outer ring, and / or the at least one vane.

[0018] Here, the additional physical measurement principle of the measuring device is preferably distinct from inductive position detection. Therefore, preferably, the additional physical measurement principle is not, or at least not primarily, inductive (see below). This allows for particularly high robustness because common-mode interference is therefore unlikely to involve both and / or all physical measurement principles. Thus, the functionality of movable elements and / or position sensors can always be achieved.

[0019] It can be specified here that the additional physical measurement principle (or the measuring device) enables emergency operation and / or degraded operation, and is specifically designed for this purpose. This can be advantageously used to implement inductive position detection during normal operation, and in failure conditions, especially when inductive position detection becomes inaccurate and / or fails, position detection (only) via the measuring device. Here, reduced resolution (e.g., for angular position) can also be used to advantageously reduce complexity, cost, structural space, and / or weight. It can also be specified that the reduced resolution is used as information for the driver and / or control unit, the reduced resolution being noticeable to the driver, for example, through reduced ride comfort and / or steering characteristics. Thus, failure and / or malfunction of (primary) inductive position detection can be notified, for example, to proceed to a repair shop.

[0020] It can be specified, in particular, that inductive position detection and position detection via a measuring device can be used in parallel (or simultaneously). This allows for the validation and / or verification of the validity of the respective additional physical measurement methods. This can improve the accuracy, robustness, reliability, and / or speed of position determination.

[0021] Advantageously, within the scope of the invention, the movable element has an inner ring and / or an outer ring, with at least one blade (12) disposed on the inner ring and / or the outer ring, wherein, in particular, the outer ring at least partially surrounds the inner ring, and preferably, the outer ring has an insulator, particularly plastic. It can be specified that the outer ring has at least one slit to advantageously prevent and / or reduce vortices in the outer ring, particularly with respect to the entire periphery. Preferably, multiple slits can be provided. The slits can preferably be distributed symmetrically, particularly with respect to the periphery. Preferably, the slits can be substantially located between two blades, and thus particularly in a blade notch. Advantageously, (parasitic) vortices in the outer ring, particularly between adjacent blades, can be prevented. Advantageously, at least one slit (partially all slits) can be filled and / or reinforced with plastic to advantageously improve mechanical stability, which may be reduced, particularly by the use of slits in the outer ring, which preferably comprises high-quality steel. Here, the at least one gap can completely or at least partially interrupt the outer ring. Upon complete interruption, eddies at that location can be completely stopped. Upon partial interruption, eddies at that location can be at least partially stopped, but mechanical stability can be (relatively) improved.

[0022] Here, the outer ring can be designed circularly, and in particular, at least partially disposed in the notches between the vanes. Thus, the movable element, especially in a top view along the z-direction, can be designed circularly. In other words, the outer ring can close the hole created through the vane notches to complete the circular shape. Here, the outer ring can terminate flush with the at least one vane. This can be advantageous in order to position the measuring device at least partially at the height of the vane, especially in a way that simultaneously provides spatial, electrical, and / or material separation. Alternatively or additionally, the outer ring can be specified to enlarge the diameter of the movable element, and in particular, protrude beyond the vane. This allows for the determination of the position of the measuring device on the movable element (with respect to, for example, the midpoint and / or symmetry point) further outward. This advantageously allows for more precise separation of the physical measurement principles. Furthermore, (mechanical) protection of the inner ring can be achieved. This allows for integrated manufacturing that optimizes structural space and / or combines at least two different physical measurement principles. It is preferable that no eddy currents are induced in the at least one winglet notch and / or the plurality of winglet notches.

[0023] The outer ring may at least partially have an insulator, particularly a plastic. This insulator can prevent attenuation of the sensed position detection (e.g., signal attenuation). These materials may also be specified to have defined electrical properties, particularly dielectric and / or dielectric constant, to improve the sensed position detection, for example, by advantageously influencing (especially enhancing) the electric and / or magnetic fields. The outer ring may be specified as a post-injection molded plastic component, or formed by a plastic injection molding method. The inner ring and / or the at least one flap may be, in particular, encapsulated using post-injection molding and / or injection molding. Alternatively or additionally, conductive structures may be provided on the inner ring and / or at least one flap, for example, by lamination, bonding, and / or force-locking connections. This allows for greater flexibility in design. The inner ring, the outer ring, and / or the at least one flap may be integrated on a circuit board, wherein, in particular, the at least one opening and / or the at least one reflector are implemented directly on the circuit board. This advantageously allows for simple, precise, and / or low-cost manufacturing.

[0024] Within the scope of the invention, it is conceivable that the measuring device has at least one optical path for optical position detection of the movable element, wherein, preferably, the at least one optical path is at least partially disposed in the inner ring, the at least one wing, and / or the outer ring, wherein, in particular, the optical path has at least one opening and / or a reflector.

[0025] Here, the optical path for optical position detection may, in particular, include a path of light for a grating. Therefore, the movable element and / or the position sensor may have at least one grating, such as a forked grating and / or a reflective grating. Optical position detection can be achieved here, for example, through the combined action of a light source (e.g., included on one side of the position sensor) and / or a photodetector (e.g., included on the substantially opposite side of the position sensor). Here, light may be measured and not measured alternately, especially periodically, by the photodetector, preferably depending on the (rotational) position and / or angle of the movable element. This can be achieved here by at least one opening and / or a reflector. Optical position detection can be used here as an additional, different, and / or redundant physical measurement method. This can particularly advantageously improve the robustness of the movable element and / or the position sensor, especially because there is little or no common-mode interference that can affect the optical and inductive measurement principles.

[0026] Here, the opening may include (preferably) material voids that extend through the thickness. The opening provides optical transmittance, especially for light. Therefore, the optical path between the light source and the light sensor can be released through the opening, particularly periodically and / or during rotation, allowing the light sensor to receive light emitted by the light source. If the opening is not located on the connection line between the light source and the light sensor or at its height, then the light cannot be determined by the light sensor, or only strongly attenuated light can be determined. Consequently, a corresponding additional sensor signal can be provided by the light sensor, which is provided, for example, to the control unit via a data connection. Here, the light source can be positioned on one side of the movable element (e.g., above or below along the z-direction), and the light sensor can be positioned on the other side (e.g., below or above along the z-direction). This allows for particularly robust and / or accurate measurements. The opening may have a width (particularly along, for example, the direction of rotation and / or azimuth of the inner ring), said width being between 0.1 and 100 mm, preferably between 0.01 and 10 mm, preferably between 0.1 and 5 mm, preferably between 0.5 and 4 mm, particularly preferably between 0.7 and 3 mm, and ideally between 1 and 2 mm. The opening may also have a height (particularly along, for example, the diameter and / or radial coordinate of the inner ring), said height being between 0.00001 and 100 mm, preferably between 0.0001 and 10 mm, preferably between 0.001 and 1 mm, preferably between 0.005 and 0.7 mm, particularly preferably between 0.01 and 0.3 mm, and ideally between 0.05 and 0.15 mm. Thus, statistically frequent dust particles of approximately 1 mm in size will not, or at least will be difficult to, clog the opening. Therefore, contamination can be prevented and / or reduced. It can be specified that a smaller opening allows for more accurate measurements. It can be specified here that a larger opening enables less precise measurements, particularly in terms of resolution. This advantageously provides the driver with altered steering characteristics (of the steer-by-wire system), allowing for feedback (or alerts) of functional malfunctions, for example, when the optical path is used in emergency operation. Preferably, the movable element and / or the position sensor has at least one grating, particularly a forked grating, to enable optical position detection through at least one opening and / or multiple openings. Preferably, at least two forked gratings are provided, particularly spaced apart from each other to achieve a low fault tolerance. Here, the wavelength range can be designed such that external light, such as sunlight and the like, has little or no impact on the measurement.

[0027] It can be specified that at least two openings are provided, especially at least 16 openings, preferably at least 32 openings, advantageously at least 64 openings, particularly preferably at least 128 openings, and ideally at least 256 openings. A larger number allows for additional redundancy, which advantageously improves robustness, reduces failure tendency, and / or improves accuracy. Here, the number of 256 openings can constitute a particularly advantageous trade-off between the aforementioned advantages and complexity of the manufacture and / or device. It can be specified that the openings are arranged substantially side-by-side, for example, side-by-side in the at least one wing, in order to achieve a small structural space, especially for the required light source and / or light sensor. It can also be specified that the distance between the openings is maximized, for example, distributed across different winglets and / or an external ring, in order to optimize robustness, optimize measurement accuracy, and / or reduce failure tendency. Advantageously, the openings and / or reflectors are distributed such that at least one opening, especially interacting with the light sensor, generates a (optical) measurement signal. This can be achieved, for example, through a compensated (angular) offset between the opening (or reflector) and / or the light sensor. The arrangement of the openings allows for the encoding of (optical) sensor signals, particularly characteristic variations that can be advantageously used to check functionality and / or for unambiguous configurations (e.g., to prevent ambiguity).

[0028] Here, the reflector can be designed to at least partially reflect light. Therefore, the optical path between the light source and the light sensor can be released, particularly periodically and / or during rotation, by the reflector, allowing the light sensor to receive light emitted by the light source. If the reflector is not at the height of the light source and / or the light sensor, then the light cannot be determined by the light sensor, or only strongly attenuated light can be determined. Thus, a corresponding additional sensor signal can be provided by the light sensor, which is provided, for example, to the control unit via a data connection. The light source and the light sensor can be arranged substantially in the same position, particularly adjacent to each other. An advantageous arrangement on one side of the movable element (e.g., above or below along the z-direction) may be sufficient, which advantageously reduces structural space. The reflector may have a width (particularly along, for example, the direction of rotation and / or azimuth of the inner ring), said width being between 0.1 and 100 mm, preferably between 0.01 and 10 mm, more preferably between 0.1 and 5 mm, more preferably between 0.5 and 4 mm, particularly preferably between 0.7 and 3 mm, and ideally between 0.9 and 2.0 mm. The reflector may also have a height (particularly along, for example, the diameter and / or radial coordinate of the inner ring), said height being between 0.1 and 100 mm, preferably between 0.01 and 10 mm, more preferably between 0.1 and 5 mm, more preferably between 0.5 and 4 mm, particularly preferably between 0.7 and 3 mm, and ideally between 0.9 and 20 mm. Thus, statistically frequent dust particles of approximately 0.1 mm in size advantageously do not, or at least do not, completely obscure the reflector. This allows for particularly high robustness. The greater extension prevents and / or reduces contamination or its effects. It can be specified that a smaller reflector enables more accurate measurements. Conversely, a smaller reflector allows for less precise measurements, particularly in terms of resolution, which advantageously provides the driver with altered steering characteristics (of the steer-by-wire system) to enable feedback (or alerts) to functional malfunctions, for example, when the optical path is used in emergency situations. Preferably, the movable element and / or the position sensor has at least one grating, particularly a reflective grating, to enable optical position detection via one reflector and / or the plurality of reflectors. Preferably, at least two reflective gratings are provided, particularly spaced apart from each other to achieve a low fault tolerance.

[0029] It can be specified that at least two reflectors are provided, especially at least 16 reflectors, preferably at least 32 reflectors, advantageously at least 64 reflectors, particularly preferably at least 128 reflectors, and ideally at least 256 reflectors. A larger number allows for additional redundancy, which advantageously improves robustness, reduces failure propensity, and / or improves accuracy. Here, the number of 256 reflectors can constitute a particularly advantageous trade-off between the aforementioned advantages of the manufacture and / or device and its complexity. It can be specified that the reflectors are arranged substantially side-by-side, for example, side-by-side within the at least one fin, in order to achieve a small structural space, especially for the required light source and / or optical sensor. It can also be specified that the distance between the reflectors is maximized, for example, distributed on the fin and / or the outer ring, in order to optimize robustness, optimize measurement accuracy, and / or reduce failure propensity.

[0030] It can be specified that at least one (preferably multiple as shown above) opening and at least one (preferably multiple as shown above) reflector are provided. This allows for greater robustness, redundancy, and / or accuracy. Therefore, it can be specified that, especially in emergency operations, higher accuracy can be achieved by combining position detection through the opening(multiple) openings and reflectors. It can be specified that the reflectors and openings are arranged substantially side-by-side to achieve a small structural space, especially for the required light source and / or light sensor. It can also be specified that the distance between the reflector and the opening is maximized to optimize robustness, optimize measurement accuracy, and / or reduce failure tendency.

[0031] It can be specified that at least one (or two) openings and / or at least one (or two) reflectors are spatially spaced apart from each other. It can also be specified that the openings and / or reflectors are spaced apart from each other with respect to the diameter or radius of the movable element, wherein, in particular, some are positioned on the outer edges, while others are positioned closer to the midpoint. Thus, the openings and / or reflectors can be positioned on tracks that are further inward and / or outward during rotation. This reduces the probability of failure (of all elements). This improves safety.

[0032] It can be specified here that at least one opening and / or reflector is provided in said at least one wing. This allows for simplified manufacturing, as the component only needs to be machined at the outermost end, for example, during stamping. Meanwhile, further detection of the outermost position (regarding diameter) can have higher accuracy, especially since the rotation angle can be converted to a larger distance.

[0033] Alternatively or additionally, it may be specified that at least one opening and / or reflector is disposed in the at least one fin, and at least one reflector and / or opening is disposed in the inner ring. This allows for spatial separation for different physical measurement principles, which can optimize robustness and / or fault tolerance.

[0034] Alternatively or additionally, it may be specified that at least one opening and / or reflector is disposed in the at least one fin, and at least one reflector and / or opening is disposed in the outer ring. This allows for spatial separation for different physical measurement principles, which can optimize robustness and / or fault tolerance. Additionally, it may be specified that the outer ring and the inner ring (and / or at least one fin) are electrically insulated from each other. This can (further) optimize robustness and / or fault tolerance.

[0035] Here, especially when using more different physical measurement principles, security can be further enhanced by the measuring device. Particularly preferred is the use of both inductive and optical position detection, as these are particularly robust to common-mode interference (“common-cause failure”), especially since common-mode interference that interferes with the inductive measurement principle also interferes with the optical measurement principle with a very small probability, and vice versa.

[0036] It can be specified here that optical measurement principles via optical paths are used for emergency and / or degraded operations. Therefore, optical measurement principles can be used when inductive measurement principles fail at least partially. This can be done at reduced resolution, especially to achieve greater robustness and / or driver information (see above).

[0037] Within the scope of the invention, it can be specified that the movable element, in particular the inner ring, has at least one wing notch disposed next to the at least one wing, wherein, in particular, the at least one wing and the at least one wing notch are disposed on the outwardly pointing edge of the inner ring.

[0038] Here, the at least one winglet notch can be filled by the outer ring.

[0039] Here, the multiple fins and fin notches can preferably alternate evenly along the periphery. It can be specified that the fins and fin notches each cover the same angle; for example, three fins and three fin notches each covering 60° can be provided. Therefore, particularly good symmetry is possible, which enables simple manufacturing and / or symmetrical rotation during operation.

[0040] It can be specified here that the movable element has a number of 1 to 100 blades and / or blade notches, preferably between 1 and 50, more preferably between 2 and 20, particularly preferably between 3 and 9, advantageously between 4 and 6, and ideally 5. A larger number of blades can improve measurement accuracy. A smaller number of blades can optimize cost, robustness, and / or manufacturing.

[0041] It can be preferably specified here that the number of vanes and / or vane notches is selected based on the rotational motion to be detected. For example, in a throttle body, the maximum angle of 90° between two end positions can be measured. This can be achieved, for example, by a movable element with three vanes arranged at 120° intervals. Thus, the 90° range of motion can be adequately (sensively) covered. Here, ambiguity leading to the detection and / or determination of one or more (angular) positions can be specifically prevented. With a larger number of vanes, the (angular) resolution and / or (angular) coverage can be improved.

[0042] Here, the vane may preferably have at least one opening to advantageously shape the induced current to generate a stronger and / or characteristic measurement signal. This allows for a particularly advantageous combination of the two measurement principles.

[0043] Here, a sensed sensor signal can be provided by the at least one winglet and / or the sensing element (especially their combined action), and the signal is provided to the control unit, for example, via a data connection.

[0044] Furthermore, it is conceivable that the movable element, the inner ring, the at least one winglet, the at least one winglet notch, and / or the outer ring are designed symmetrically, especially rotationally symmetrically, wherein preferably the midpoint of the inner ring, and therefore especially the rotational axis coupled thereon (oriented in the z-direction), serves as the point of symmetry / axis of symmetry. This allows for particularly advantageous, especially lightweight, rotational characteristics, which can lead to particularly accurate measurements. Alternatively or additionally, it can be specified that the movable element, the inner ring, the at least one winglet, the at least one winglet notch, and / or the outer ring are manufactured by stamping. This allows for particularly simple, robust, inexpensive, accurate, and / or rapid manufacturing. Furthermore, the movable element can thus be designed particularly robustly. Preferably, by means of a single movable element constituted by stamping, at least two, preferably all, physical measurement principles can be realized (at least partially). For example, the at least one winglet, together with at least one opening therein, can allow both inductive and optical measurements.

[0045] It is also conceivable that the at least one wing is designed at an angle relative to the inner ring, wherein, in particular, the at least one wing is arranged substantially perpendicular to the inner ring.

[0046] Here, the at least one vane can be oriented substantially along the axis of rotation (especially along the z-direction), thereby advantageously reducing and / or optimizing the structural space. This further provides a more advantageous arrangement of the sensing elements and / or the cooperating measuring devices, which can thus be further spaced apart and / or arranged at an angle to each other. This allows for the bundling and / or space-saving installation of the connecting cables for data connection. Preferably, all vanes can be substantially at the same angle. This allows for simpler manufacturing and / or improved, especially more uniform, rotational characteristics. Here, the structural space can be reduced by placing the corresponding sensing elements closer to the midpoint and / or symmetry point or axis of symmetry. Therefore, the structural space in the xy-plane can be reduced. Thus, a structural form that better coordinates with the available structural space can be allowed. Here, the measuring device can be disposed within the at least one vane.

[0047] Optionally within the scope of the invention, the movable element may have at least two flaps for sensing the position of the movable element, so as to enable, in particular, redundant sensing position detection.

[0048] Here, the functionality of sensing position detection can still be achieved even when one or all of the winglets except one of them cease to generate (induced) measurement signals. Furthermore, the induced measurement signals, especially signal strength (e.g., voltage value) and / or signal curves, can be influenced by the number, orientation, position, spacing, thickness, shape, and / or material, and preferably (in development) are considered in advance. Therefore, the ambiguity of the measurement signals can also be ensured, so as to preferably avoid ambiguity in detecting and / or determining (angular) position.

[0049] It can be specified that the movable element and / or the position sensor has at least two sensing elements. It can also be specified that the number of vanes is the same as the number of sensing elements, thereby advantageously generating, in particular, measurable and / or evaluable sensor signals as each vane approaches and / or moves away from the sensing elements. This allows for additional redundancy. Higher robustness and / or lower failure propensity can be achieved.

[0050] Furthermore, within the scope of this invention, it may be specified that the measuring device is designed with at least double redundancy based on an additional physical measurement principle for position detection of the movable element.

[0051] This can be achieved, for example (as described above), through a combination of optical and inductive measurement principles. It can also be achieved through other combinations (see below).

[0052] It is conceivable that the measuring device is capable of detecting the magnetic and / or capacitive position of the movable element.

[0053] Therefore, one or more additional physical measurement principles can allow for magnetic and / or capacitive position detection. In particular, the more different physical measurement principles used, the greater the potential for increased security.

[0054] Here, the inner ring, the outer ring, and / or at least one flap may at least partially have a magnetic material. Here, the position sensor may have at least one magnetic sensor element that detects the approach and / or departure of the magnetic material. Here, the magnetic material may have an aperture that is detected by the magnetic sensor element. Particularly preferably, the at least one opening may be used to provide both an optical path and an aperture. This allows for a particularly advantageous combination of different measurement principles. Here, the magnetic sensor element can interact with the aperture to detect (periodic) changes in magnetoresistance, in particular, it can electrically detect differences in the generated magnetic flux. Here, a corresponding additional (magnetic) sensor signal can be generated, which can be transmitted to the control unit, for example, via data transmission. Here, the additional sensor signal may include voltage and / or current signals, which are particularly robust against common-mode interference involving inductive measurement principles. Alternatively or additionally, it may be specified that the at least one magnetic sensor element detects at least one opening in the movable element. Thus, a particularly space-saving combination can be achieved, especially between optical and magnetic position detection. It can also be specified that, for a specific application, optical or magnetic position detection can be performed using the (same) movable element. Therefore, the same movable element can be used universally. It can be specified that a magnetic sensor element for scanning, especially rotating, movable elements is integrated on a circuit board. Here, it can be specified that the magnetic sensor element has a magnet, which is, for example, injection-molded into a corresponding electronic connector, and / or manufactured at least as a single unit.

[0055] Here, the inner ring, the outer ring, and / or at least one wing may at least partially have capacitors, capacitor plates, and / or dielectrics. Here, the position sensor may have at least one capacitive sensor element, such as a parallel plate capacitor, the plates of which are preferably positioned above and below the movable element (along the z-direction), the capacitive sensor element detecting the approach and / or departure of the capacitor, capacitor plates, and / or dielectric. Here, corresponding additional sensor signals may be generated, which can be transmitted to the control unit, for example, via data transmission.

[0056] The aforementioned task is further solved according to a second aspect by a position sensor for position detection according to the invention, particularly for a vehicle's steer-by-wire system, the position sensor comprising:

[0057] -The movable element according to any one of the preceding claims,

[0058] - A sensing element for sensing and detecting the movement of the movable element.

[0059] - A cooperating measuring device that interacts with a measuring device based on another physical measurement principle for position detection of the movable element to further detect the movement of the movable element.

[0060] Here, the position sensor may have at least one brush, which is preferably designed to remove contaminants from the movable element. This can improve robustness and / or reduce the tendency to fail. Preferably, the at least one brush is fixed in position, while the movable element moves, particularly rotates, relative to the brush. The at least one brush can clean the movable element from below and / or above (e.g., about the z-direction). Preferably, dust particles on the order of 0.1 mm can thus be removed. Therefore, contamination of the fins, openings, and / or reflectors can be prevented. Furthermore, it is advantageous to prevent the adhesion of contaminants, especially those that degrade sensing and / or optical position detection over long time intervals, for example, by oxidants, which are preferably removed by the brush. Preferably, the brush is arranged such that it cannot contact the at least one reflector when the movable element rotates. This preserves the reflective properties of the reflector.

[0061] It can be specified that the position sensor is at least partially integrated on the circuit board. Here, for example, the at least one reflector can be disposed on the circuit board, and in particular, generate additional (optical) sensor signals together with at least one opening in the movable element. Preferably, the light source and / or the light sensor can be integrated on the circuit board. The position sensor can have a housing, which preferably includes a window through which an optical path can preferably be implemented. Therefore, encapsulation is possible; however, the encapsulation can be light-transmitting. It can be specified that the light source and / or the light sensor is disposed on the back side of the circuit board, and the light is guided, for example, through holes or milled portions of the circuit board. This allows for minimization and / or targeted design of the structural space.

[0062] Thus, the same advantages have been described regarding the position sensor according to the invention as those already described regarding the movable element according to the invention.

[0063] The aforementioned task is further solved according to a third aspect by a method according to the invention for a position sensor, the method being used for position detection of a movable element of the position sensor, particularly for a steer-by-wire system of a vehicle, the method comprising:

[0064] - Provides a position sensor according to the second aspect, which includes movable elements according to the first aspect.

[0065] -In particular, by operating the steer-by-wire system to move the movable element, especially by coupling the movable element to the rotation axis of the steer-by-wire system.

[0066] - The movement of the movable element is detected by the position sensor in order to provide a sensed sensor signal.

[0067] - The movement of the movable element is further detected by the position sensor, especially the measuring device, so as to provide additional sensor signals based on other physical measurement principles for the position detection of the movable element.

[0068] - The sensed sensor signals and the additional sensor signals are provided to the control unit, preferably via a (corresponding) data connection.

[0069] The control unit processes the sensed sensor signals and the additional sensor signals to provide an output signal.

[0070] - The output signal is provided by the control unit, for example, for operating the steer-by-wire system.

[0071] Here, the output signal may include position, particularly angular position, rotational position, and / or rotational speed. For example, the control unit may rely on the output signal to set the steering angle of the vehicle's wheels via the steer-by-wire system. Alternatively or additionally, it may be specified that the control unit relies on the output signal to set the deflection angle of the vehicle's console, such as the steering wheel, via the steer-by-wire system.

[0072] Thus, the same advantages have been described regarding the method according to the invention as those already described regarding the movable element according to the invention and / or the position sensor according to the invention.

[0073] The aforementioned task is further solved according to a fourth aspect by a computer program product according to the invention, the computer program product comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to implement the method according to the third aspect.

[0074] Therefore, the same advantages have been derived with respect to the computer program product according to the invention as have been described with respect to the movable element according to the invention and / or the position sensor according to the invention and / or the method according to the invention.

[0075] The aforementioned task is further solved according to the fifth aspect by a computer-readable data carrier according to the invention, wherein instructions are stored in the data carrier, which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method according to the third aspect.

[0076] Therefore, the same advantages have been derived with respect to the computer-readable data carrier according to the invention as have been described with respect to the movable element according to the invention and / or the position sensor according to the invention and / or the method according to the invention and / or the computer program product according to the invention.

[0077] The aforementioned task is further solved according to a sixth aspect by a control unit according to the invention, the control unit comprising a computing unit and a storage unit, wherein instructions are stored in the storage unit, the instructions implementing the method according to the third aspect when at least partially executed by the computing unit.

[0078] The control unit can also control and / or adjust the drive mechanism of the vehicle's steer-by-wire system, especially those relying on sensor signals. It can also be specified that the sensor signals be provided to other control units of the vehicle for further processing.

[0079] Here, the control unit may have an integrated circuit (e.g., an ASIC) and / or be connected in data communication with that integrated circuit. It may be specified that the sensor signals, especially optical sensor signals, are directly transmitted to the integrated circuit for optimized, especially faster and / or real-time calculations, and / or processed by the integrated circuit.

[0080] The control unit can be designed to perform position detection and / or evaluation based on (all) input sensor signals. Here, in particular, it is necessary to determine which sensor signals are correct and which are incorrect. Therefore, for example, each physical measurement principle can be implemented redundantly in at least dual channels. A redundant architecture can be referred to herein as "2+2". Thus, when sensor signals provide erroneous and / or defective information, such as position (angular position), a "2 out of 3" decision can be made. The 2+2 safety architecture can result in two different inductive sensor signals and two interference-free optical position sensors without common-mode errors in the event of common-mode interference. In this case, a system decision can be simply made between incorrect and correct. Similarly, in the example where the optical position sensor is affected by common-mode interference while the inductive position sensor is unaffected, a unilateral decision from incorrect to correct can be made.

[0081] Therefore, the same advantages have been described regarding the control unit according to the invention as those already described regarding the movable element according to the invention and / or the position sensor according to the invention and / or the method according to the invention and / or the computer program product according to the invention and / or the computer-readable data carrier according to the invention.

[0082] The aforementioned task is further solved according to a seventh aspect by a vehicle according to the invention, the vehicle comprising a control unit according to a sixth aspect and / or a position sensor according to a second aspect and / or a movable element according to a first aspect.

[0083] Therefore, the same advantages have been described with respect to the vehicle according to the invention and / or the position sensor according to the invention and / or the method according to the invention and / or the computer program product according to the invention and / or the computer-readable data carrier according to the invention and / or the control unit according to the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0084] Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description, in which various embodiments of the invention are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Features mentioned herein in the claims and specification may be important to the invention individually or in any combination. These are illustrated herein as follows:

[0085] Figure 1It shows movable elements including adjacent measuring devices;

[0086] Figure 2 The diagram shows movable elements including opposing measuring devices;

[0087] Figure 3 It shows movable elements including openings and reflectors;

[0088] Figure 4 It shows a movable element including a sensing element and a cooperating measuring device.

[0089] Figure 5 The movable element (internal rotor) is shown.

[0090] Figure 6 The movable element (outer rotor) is shown.

[0091] Figure 7 The vehicle shown includes a position sensor; and

[0092] Figure 8 A method for using a position sensor is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0093] In the following figures, the same reference numerals are used for the same technical features even in different embodiments.

[0094] Figure 1 An exemplary movable element 10 for a position sensor 100 is shown, particularly for a steer-by-wire system 201 for a vehicle 200, the movable element comprising:

[0095] -A ring 11 inside a wing 12 having at least one inductive position detection for the movable element 10,

[0096] - A measuring device 20 based on an additional physical measurement principle for position detection of the movable element 10.

[0097] Here, the movable element 10 can be designed circularly, especially due to the shape of the outer ring 14. A notch 13 can be provided next to the winglets 12, particularly between the two winglets 12. The measuring device 20 can have an optical path 21, which includes, in particular, an opening 22 and / or a reflector 23, the opening being a light-transmitting gap formed in the movable element 10, and the reflector being designed to reflect light.

[0098] Figure 2 An example is shown according to Figure 1The movable element 10. However, here, the positions of the (two) measuring devices 20 are changed. The first measuring device 20 may be located at one end of the movable element 10, while the second measuring device 20 may be located at the substantially opposite ends of the movable element 10. Here, the diameter of the outer ring 14 is changed, so that the outer ring is substantially flush with the vane 12. Alternatively or additionally, the arrangement of the measuring devices 20 in the outer ring 14 may also be specified. This allows for separation, especially electrical separation, between the inner ring 11 or vane 12 and the outer ring 14, and therefore especially the measuring devices 20.

[0099] Figure 3 according to Figure 1 or Figure 2 A movable element 10 is shown. Two openings 22 opposite each other are shown here. Two reflectors 23 opposite each other are also shown here. The openings 22 and reflectors 23 can be arranged alternately, for example, at 90° intervals. This maximizes the distance, advantageously achieving particularly high robustness. Furthermore, measurement accuracy can be improved. It is also schematically shown that the inner ring 11 can be circular, and in particular, the at least one fin 12 or the plurality of fins 12 are, for example, material-locked on their outer edges. Therefore, the inner ring 11 and the fins 12 can be formed, for example, a stamped part made of metal.

[0100] Figure 4 according to Figure 1 or Figure 2 or Figure 3A movable element 10 is shown. Furthermore, a position sensor 100 is shown, which includes the movable element 10. The position sensor 100 may have at least one sensing element 30. Two sensing elements 30 are shown exemplarily, facing each other with respect to the movable element 10. Here, the sensing elements 30 may have inductive encoders. This maximizes the distance between the sensing elements, advantageously allowing for higher robustness and / or more accurate measurements. The position sensor 100 may have at least one mating measuring device 40. Two mating measuring devices 40 are shown exemplarily, facing each other with respect to the movable element 10. This maximizes the distance between the mating measuring devices, advantageously allowing for higher robustness and / or more accurate measurements. Therefore, the sensing elements 30 and / or the mating measuring devices 40 can each be designed with dual redundancy. Advantageously, at least two different physical measurement principles (e.g., inductive and optical) can be used to enable position detection of the movable element 10, and thus position detection, particularly of the rotational axis of the steering system 201 coupled centrally to the movable element 10. This ensures particularly high robustness, emergency operation, and / or improved safety. As mentioned above, it can also be specified that the at least one flap 12 is designed at an angle, for example, such that the flap is angled upward at 90° (and particularly protrudes from the drawing plane).

[0101] Figure 5An exemplary movable element 10 for a position sensor 100, particularly for a steer-by-wire system 201 of a vehicle 200, is shown, having an inner ring 11 comprising three vanes 12 for sensing the position of the movable element 10. The three vanes 12 are disposed on the inner ring 11 and the outer ring 14, and are formed together as a stamped part. The movable element 10 may be circularly designed, particularly due to the shape of the outer ring 14. A vane notch 13 may be provided next to each vane 12, particularly between two vanes 12. The outer ring 14 includes a plurality of measuring devices 20. The measuring devices 20 may have an optical path 21, including openings 22 and / or reflectors 23, the openings forming light-transmitting gaps in the movable element 10, and the reflectors designed to reflect light. They are arranged substantially equidistantly along the outer ring 14. In addition to optical measurement principles, inductive measurement principles can also be implemented. A sensing element 30 can be provided here, having a transmitting coil 30a (dashed circle) and at least one receiving coil 30b (shaded line). The transmitting coil and the at least one receiving coil preferably do not rotate with the remaining components shown and / or can be arranged individually, particularly planarly, for example, in a plane below or above it, particularly in a circuit board (PCB). Preferably, the transmitting coil 30a can emit a transmitting signal, such as a high-frequency electromagnetic wave, which induces eddy currents in at least one, preferably all, of the vanes 12. These eddy currents can be detected accordingly by the receiving coil 30b. Therefore, a measurement signal dependent on the (angular) position of the vanes 12 can be measured. The (angular) position can be determined from the measurement signal. It can be specified that the outer ring 14 has at least one gap 50. This gap can be formed here as a complete interruption in the material of the outer ring 14. Thus, the eddy currents generated by the sensing element 30, especially the transmitting coil 30a, cannot flow (at this position) in the outer ring 14, which enables particularly accurate measurements. It can be specified that the gap 50 only partially interrupts the width of the outer ring (especially in the radial direction). This can at least partially suppress the corresponding eddy currents, while the remaining portion of the outer ring still achieves good mechanical stability. Thus, as indicated by the arrows, the current path of the eddy currents can be further spaced from the sensing element 30, especially the receiving coil 30b, which in particular allows for a more accurate measurement and thus determination of the (angular) position of the at least one blade 12. The at least one blade 12, the inner ring 11, the outer ring 14, and / or the at least one measuring device 20 can rotate here, especially around a symmetrical point at the center. Here, a rotational fastening device 60 can be present, for example, along the periphery of the rotational axis, especially on the central axis of rotation.In other words, this can involve an inner rotor, particularly one with inner shaft coupling. Here, the sensing element 30 can preferably be kept in a fixed position, and therefore, in particular, does not rotate.

[0102] Figure 6 according to Figure 5 Similarly, a movable element 10 for the position sensor 100 is also shown as an example. However, the inner ring 11 is not provided here (exemplarily), and in particular, the width of the inner ring can be infinitesimally small. Therefore, the vane 12 can be connected to the outer ring 14. The outer ring 14 may here, particularly at least partially, preferably radially outward, have a rotational fastening device 60, for example, for the engine and / or transmission. In other words, it may involve an outer rotor, particularly with a hollow shaft coupling. Here, a support may be provided on the outer side, exemplarily. Figure 5 and / or Figure 6 Alternatively, it can be specified that the outer ring 14 is merely an extension of the at least one winglet 12. In other words, the gap 50 can be designed so large that a section of the outer ring 14 overlaps with the at least one winglet 12, and thus appears as if there is no outer ring 14. In other words, a design that can be achieved without an outer ring 14 (and / or an inner ring 11) is also conceivable.

[0103] Figure 7 A vehicle 200 including a steer-by-wire system 201 is shown. Furthermore, the vehicle 200 includes a control unit ECU, which includes a computing unit CU and a storage unit MU. The vehicle 200 may also have a position sensor 100 including a movable element 10. Here, the position sensor 100 may be implemented in the steer-by-wire system or integrated with the steer-by-wire system 201. Preferably, the position sensor 100 can detect the (angular) position of at least one rotation axis of the steer-by-wire system 201. Based on this, the control unit ECU can control and / or adjust the vehicle 200.

[0104] Figure 8 A method for position sensor 100 is shown for position detection of movable element 10 of said position sensor 100, particularly for steer-by-wire system 201 of vehicle 200, said method comprising:

[0105] - Provides 110, for example, according to Figure 4 Position sensor 100, the position sensor comprising, for example, according to Figures 1 to 3 The movable element 10,

[0106] -In particular, the movable element 10 is moved 120 by operating the steering-by-wire system 201.

[0107] - The position sensor 100 senses and detects the movement 120 of the movable element 10 to provide a sensed sensor signal 131.

[0108] - The position sensor 100 further detects the movement 120 of the movable element 10 to provide additional sensor signals 141 based on additional physical measurement principles for position detection of the movable element 10.

[0109] - Provide the sensed sensor signal 131 and the additional sensor signal 141 to the control unit ECU.

[0110] - The ECU processes the sensed sensor signal 131 and the additional sensor signal 141 to provide an output signal.

[0111] - The output signal 170 is provided by the control unit ECU, for example for operating the steer-by-wire system 201.

[0112] List of reference numerals

[0113] 10 movable components

[0114] 11 internal ring

[0115] 12-blade

[0116] 13-blade notch

[0117] 14. External ring

[0118] 20 Measuring devices

[0119] 21 Optical Path

[0120] 22 openings

[0121] 23 reflectors

[0122] 30 sensing elements

[0123] 30A transmitting coil

[0124] 30b receiving coil

[0125] 40. Measuring device

[0126] 50 gaps

[0127] 60 Rotary Fastening Device

[0128] 100 position sensors

[0129] 110 provides position sensors

[0130] 120 causes the movable element to move.

[0131] 130 sensor detection

[0132] 131 Sensor Signal

[0133] 140 further tests

[0134] 141 Other sensor signals

[0135] 150 provides the sensor signal to be sensed.

[0136] 160 processes the sensed sensor signals and other sensor signals.

[0137] 170 provides output signal

[0138] 200 vehicles

[0139] 201 Steer-by-wire system

[0140] CU computing unit

[0141] ECU control unit

[0142] MU storage unit.

Claims

1. A movable element (10) for a position sensor (100), particularly for a steer-by-wire system (201) for a vehicle (200), said movable element comprising: - At least one winglet (12) for sensing position detection of the movable element (10). - A measuring device (20) based on an additional physical measurement principle for position detection of the movable element (10).

2. The movable element (10) according to claim 1. Its features are, The movable element (10) has an inner ring (11) and / or an outer ring (14), and at least one flap (12) is disposed on the inner ring and / or the outer ring, wherein, in particular, the outer ring (14) at least partially surrounds the inner ring (11).

3. The movable element (10) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The measuring device (20) has at least one optical path (21) for optical position detection of the movable element (10), wherein, preferably, the at least one optical path (21) is at least partially disposed in the inner ring (11), the at least one wing (12) and / or the outer ring (14), wherein, in particular, the optical path (21) has at least one opening (22) and / or a reflector (23).

4. The movable element (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The movable element (10) has at least one wing notch (13) disposed next to the at least one wing (12), wherein, in particular, the at least one wing (12) and the at least one wing notch (13) are disposed on the outwardly pointing edge of the inner ring (11).

5. The movable element (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The movable element (10), the inner ring (11), the at least one winglet (12), the at least one winglet notch (13) and / or the outer ring (14) are designed symmetrically, especially rotationally symmetrically, and / or manufactured by stamping.

6. The movable element (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The at least one wing (12) is designed at an angle relative to the inner ring (11), wherein, in particular, the at least one wing (12) is arranged substantially perpendicular to the inner ring (11).

7. The movable element (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The movable element (10) has at least two flaps (12) for sensing position detection of the movable element (10) so as to enable redundant sensing position detection.

8. The movable element (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The measuring device (20) is designed with at least double redundancy based on an additional physical measurement principle for position detection of the movable element (10).

9. The movable element (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The measuring device (20) is capable of detecting the magnetic and / or capacitive position of the movable element (10).

10. A position sensor (100) for position detection, particularly for a steer-by-wire system (201) of a vehicle (200), said position sensor comprising: -A movable element (10) according to any one of the preceding claims. - A sensing element (30) for sensing and detecting the movement (120) of the movable element (10) of the movable element (130). -A cooperating measuring device (40) interacts with a measuring device (20) based on another physical measurement principle for position detection of the movable element (10) to further detect (140) the movement (120) of the movable element (10).

11. A method for detecting the position of a movable element (10) of a position sensor (100), particularly for a steer-by-wire system (201) of a vehicle (200), comprising: - Provide (110) a position sensor (100) according to claim 10, the position sensor comprising a movable element (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9. -In particular, by operating the steer-by-wire system (201), the movable element (10) is moved (120). - The position sensor (100) senses (130) the movement (120) of the movable element (10) so as to provide a sensed sensor signal (131). - The movement (120) of the movable element (10) is further detected (140) by the position sensor (100) in order to provide additional sensor signals (141) based on additional physical measurement principles for position detection of the movable element (10). - Provide the sensed sensor signal (131) and the additional sensor signal (141) to the control unit (ECU) (150). - The sensed sensor signal (131) and the additional sensor signal (141) are processed (160) by the control unit (ECU) to provide an output signal. - The output signal (170) is provided by the control unit (ECU) for example, to operate the steer-by-wire system (201).

12. A computer program product comprising instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method according to the preceding claim.

13. A computer-readable data carrier storing instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the method according to claim 11.

14. A control unit (ECU) comprising a computing unit (CU) and a storage unit (MU), wherein instructions are stored in the storage unit, the instructions, when executed at least partially by the computing unit (CU), implement the method according to claim 11.

15. A vehicle (200) comprising a control unit (ECU) according to the preceding claim and / or a position sensor (100) according to claim 10 and / or a movable element (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

Images