Position sensor

Abstract

Position detection system that features: a detection target (200) that is movable along a direction of movement and has a magnetic body; and a position sensor (100) which has: a detector (122) which features: a magnet (106) that generates a bias magnetic field, a detection element (124) on which the bias magnetic field is applied, and a shaped IC (105) containing a sensor chip (110), wherein a chip surface of the sensor chip (110), on which the detection element (124) is arranged, is oriented in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the detection target (200), wherein the detector (122) is designed to generate multiple detection signals containing a distinguishable phase difference and corresponding to multiple areas arranged in one direction along the direction of movement of the detection target (200), based on a change in a magnetic field associated with a movement of the detection target (200) and received by the detection element (124) from the detection target (200); and a signal processor (123) designed to to obtain the detection signals from the detector (122), to compare the detection signals with a threshold value, and to determine a position of the detection target (200) as a position in one of the areas based on a combination of a magnitude relationship between the detection signals and the threshold, wherein the recording target (200) contains four area sections (201 to 204) corresponding to the respective areas, wherein the area parts (201 to 204) are connected stepwise in the direction of movement of the detection target (200) on a detection surface (205) of the detection target (200) such that the area parts (201 to 204) are connected serially along the direction of movement, while in a top view of the detection surface (205) they are offset from each other in the direction perpendicular to the direction of movement, and wherein the detection area (205) points towards the detector (122), wherein, when the detection target (200) moves in the direction of movement with respect to the detection element (124), the respective area parts (201 to 204) move in the direction perpendicular to the direction of movement with respect to the detection element (124), wherein the detection element (124) comprises a first pair of magnetic resistance elements, a second pair of magnetic resistance elements and a third pair of magnetic resistance elements, the resistance values ​​of which change depending on a movement of the detection target (200), wherein the second pair of magnetic resistance elements is arranged in the direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the detection target (200) between the first pair of magnetic resistance elements and the third pair of magnetic resistance elements, wherein an intermediate potential at an intermediate point of the first pair of magnetic resistance elements is defined as V1, an intermediate potential at an intermediate point of the second pair of magnetic resistance elements as V2 and an intermediate potential at the intermediate point of the third pair of magnetic resistance elements as V3, wherein the detector (122) contains: a first differential amplifier designed to calculate (V1 - V2) and output the result as R1, a second differential amplifier designed to calculate (V2 - V3) and output the result as R2, a third differential amplifier designed to receive R1 (= V1 - V2) from the first differential amplifier, to receive R2 (= V2 - V3) from the second differential amplifier, to calculate R2 - R1 and to output the result as S1 (= V2 - V3) - (V1 - V2)), and a fourth differential amplifier designed to receive V1, receive V3, calculate (V1 - V3) and output the result as S2, and wherein the detector (122) is configured to output S1 and S2 to the signal processor (123) as detection signals.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to a position detection system comprising a detection target and a position sensor which outputs a signal corresponding to a position of the detection target. State of the art

[0002] For example, JP 2015-178870A describes a detector that includes a sensor for detecting an approaching target. In this detector, the sensor can output a signal at a predetermined level when the target is nearby.

[0003] US Patent 2003 / 0169033A1 discloses a position sensor comprising: a detector containing a magnet generating a bias magnetic field and a sensing element upon which the bias magnetic field is applied, wherein the detector is designed to generate multiple sensing signals containing a distinguishable phase difference and corresponding to multiple areas arranged in a direction along a direction of movement of a sensing target, based on a change in a magnetic field received by the sensing element from the sensing target, which is associated with a movement of the sensing target;and a signal processor designed to obtain the detection signals from the detector and to determine a position of the detection target as a position in one of the areas based on a combination of a magnitude relationship between the detection signals, wherein the detection target contains several area parts corresponding to the respective areas, wherein the area parts are connected stepwise in the direction of movement of the detection target on a detection surface of the detection target, and wherein the detection surface faces the detector.

[0004] US Patent 2008 / 0042644A1 discloses an electronic gearshift lever assembly that can select a gear position by detecting the movement of a gearshift lever in forward, reverse, right, and left directions. The electronic gearshift lever assembly comprises: a gearshift lever that is movable to select a gear position; a first sensor unit comprising a plurality of linear Hall sensors for detecting a vertical movement of the gearshift lever; and a second sensor unit comprising a plurality of Hall sensors for detecting a horizontal movement of the gearshift lever.

[0005] DE 11 2015 001 935 T5 discloses a rotation detection device comprising a signal detector and a determination circuit. The signal detector generates a first signal and a second signal based on changes in the resistance values ​​of magnetoresistive element pairs. The first signal has a waveform corresponding to the concave-convex structure of a rotor with convexities and concavities, while the second signal has a waveform that is phase-shifted from the first signal. The determination circuit receives the first and second signals from the signal detector, compares the first signal with a binarization threshold to generate a first binarized signal based on a binarization of the first signal, and compares the second signal with the binarization threshold to generate a second binarized signal based on a binarization of the second signal. Summary of the invention

[0006] According to the prior art, if the magnitude of a movement of the target increases, the detection area may deviate from the detectable range of a sensor. In other words, there is a limit to the area within which the sensor can detect the target.

[0007] Consideration is being given to widening the detectable area by deploying multiple sensors. However, it is necessary to provide space for the majority of sensors. Since the configuration includes multiple sensors, the cost per detector increases.

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide a position detection system comprising a detection target and a position sensor designed to detect movement of the detection target with a single detector, even when the magnitude of the movement of the detection target increases. This object is achieved by a position detection system having the features of claim 1 and claim 2, respectively. The dependent claims are directed to advantageous embodiments of the invention.

[0009] A position sensor according to a first aspect comprises a detector, which includes a magnet generating a bias magnetic field, and a sensing element upon which the bias magnetic field is applied. The detector generates multiple sensing signals, each corresponding to several areas aligned or arranged in a direction along the direction of movement of a sensing target, and exhibiting a unique phase difference based on a change in the magnetic field received by the sensing element from the sensing target, which has a magnetic body, as a result of movement of the sensing target.

[0010] The position sensor also contains a signal processor that obtains the detection signals from the detector, compares the detection signals with a threshold value, and determines a position of the detection target as a position in one of the areas based on a combination of a magnitude relationship between the detection signals and the threshold value.

[0011] The detection target contains several area sections, each corresponding to a specific area. Furthermore, these area sections are connected stepwise in the direction of movement of the detection target on a detection surface of the target that faces the detector.

[0012] A position sensor according to the second aspect differs from the position sensor according to the first aspect. The position sensor according to the second aspect contains a detector that generates multiple detection signals, each corresponding to the areas aligned in a direction along the direction of movement of a detection target that has a magnet, based on a change in a magnetic field received by the detection element from the detection target as the target moves.

[0013] The area portion that specifies the position of the detection target is also present in an area located at one end of the detector. Therefore, the detector can generate the detection signal based on a change in the magnetic field received by the area portion at the detector's end when the detector detects the position of that area portion. Because the detection target is located within a detectable area of ​​the detector, it is possible to detect the target's movement with a single detector, even as the magnitude of the detector's movement increases. Brief description of the drawings

[0014] The above and further problems, features and advantages of the present invention will become clear with reference to the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings. These show: Fig. 1 an external view of a position sensor according to a first embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2 a perspective exploded view of components forming a magnetic detection system that uses a magnetic resistance element; Fig. 3 a top view of the respective components, which are in Fig. 2 are shown; Fig. 4 a cross-sectional view along line IV-IV of the Fig. 3; Fig. 5 the detection signal from the magnetic resistance element; Fig. 6. A top view of components included in a magnetic detection system that uses a Hall effect sensor; Fig. 7 a cross-sectional view along line VII-VII of the Fig. 6; Fig. 8 a detection signal from the Hall effect sensor; Fig. 9 a circuit configuration of the position sensor; Fig. 10 a relative position relationship between a respective area part of a detection target and a detector; Fig. 11 a detection signal, a state determination and a position signal for detecting four states; Fig. 12 a comparative example; Fig. 13 a modified example for determining three states; Fig. 14 a modified example for determining three states; Fig. 15 a modified example for determining four states of a detection target which has area parts which are each designed as spatial parts; Fig. 16 a modified example in which a transition section is arranged between one area part and an adjacent area part; Fig. 17 a modified example in which a chip surface of a sensor chip is inclined with respect to a direction of movement of a detection target; Fig. 18 a modified example where a capture target has an irregular shape; Fig. 19 a modified example where a detection target has a circular sector; Fig. 20 a modified example where a detection target has a circular sector; Fig. 21 a modified example in which a detection target has a rotatable body; Fig. 22 a representation of respective area parts on the rotatable body of the Fig. 21; Fig. 23 discrete pulse widths for determining four states according to a second embodiment; Fig. 24 a top view of components included in a magnetic detection system according to a third embodiment which uses a magnetic resistance element; Fig. 25 a cross-sectional view along line XXV-XXV of the Fig. 24; Fig. 26 a top view of components included in a magnetic detection system according to the third embodiment which uses a Hall effect sensor; Fig. 27 a cross-sectional view along line XXVII-XXVII of the Fig. 26; Fig. 28 a detection signal if the detection target is a magnet; Fig. 29 a detection signal, a state determination and a position signal for detecting four states of the magnet; Fig. 30 a modified example of a detection target in which a magnet is attached to a plate element; Fig. 31 a modified example in which a detection target containing a plate element and a rubber magnet is magnetized; Fig. 32 a modified example in which a magnet is arranged at a detection target having a circular sector; Fig. 33 a modified example in which a magnet is arranged on a detection target which has a rotatable body; Fig. 34 respective area parts, which are attached to the rotating body of the Fig. 33 are arranged. Detailed description of the embodiments

[0015] The following describes embodiments of the present invention with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, the same reference numerals are used for the same or equivalent parts in the drawings. First embodiment

[0016] A first embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the drawings. A position sensor according to the present embodiment detects an area (state) that covers a position of a detection target and outputs a signal corresponding to the area.

[0017] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, a position sensor 100 detects the position of a moving component as a detection target in connection with the operation of a vehicle shift position or vehicle gear position. In particular, the position sensor 100 detects a signal based on the position of the shaft in order to ascertain the state of the shaft.

[0018] The shaft's state refers to its position when the switching position is operated by a user. For example, the shaft is moved in conjunction with a parking position of the switching position. When the switching position is moved to the parking position, the shaft moves axially. The shaft thus reflects the state of the parking position. The position sensor 100 detects a shaft position corresponding to the parking position.

[0019] If the switching position is moved to a position other than the park position, the shaft reflects the state of that other position. In this case, the position sensor detects the position of the other shaft instead of the position corresponding to the park position. The shaft can be moved in conjunction with the other position.

[0020] The shaft, for example, consists entirely of a magnetic material. Within the shaft, a surface opposite the position sensor 100 can be made of a magnetic material, while the other sections can be made of other, metallic materials.

[0021] The position sensor 100 comprises a housing 101 formed by molding a resin material such as PPS. The housing 101 includes a remote end part 102 on one side of the shaft, a flange 103 fixed to a peripheral mechanism, and a connector 104 to which a cable harness is attached. A sensing element is arranged within the remote end part 102.

[0022] The position sensor 100 is fixed to the peripheral mechanism via the flange 103, such that the far end part 102 has a predetermined gap to a sensing surface of the shaft. Consequently, the shaft moves relative to the position sensor 100.

[0023] Although not shown, the position sensor 100 can be fixed to the peripheral mechanism to detect the position of a valve operated in conjunction with the shaft. The shaft's direction of movement is not limited to a straight line or a back-and-forth motion. The shaft 200 can rotate or move back and forth at a specific angle. As described above, the position sensor 100 can be used to detect the state of a moving component that moves in connection with the operation of the vehicle's shift position, such as during movement and rotation.

[0024] The position sensor 100 can use a magnetic detection system that employs a magnetic resistance element or a magnetic detection system that employs a Hall effect sensor. It should be noted that the use of a Hall effect sensor is not within the scope of protection of the claims. As stated in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, the position sensor 100, in the case of the magnetic detection system which uses a magnetic resistance element, comprises a molded or cast IC 105, a magnet 106, and a holder 107. These components are housed in the far end part 102 of the casing 101. The molded IC 105 is inserted into the magnet 106, which is formed in a hollow cylindrical shape. The magnet 106 generates a bias magnetic field and is inserted into the holder 107, which has a cylindrical shape with a base.

[0025] As can be seen in the schematic top view of the Fig. 3 and the schematic cross-sectional view of the Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the shaped IC 105, the magnet 106, and the holder 107 are formed as a single unit. The main part of the shaped IC 105 is arranged in a hollow part of the magnet 106. The holder 107 fixes the positions of the shaped IC 105 and the magnet 106.

[0026] The molded IC 105 contains a conductor frame 108, a processing circuit chip 109, a sensor chip 110, and molded resin 111. The conductor frame 108 contains a plate-shaped island 112 and several conductors 113 to 115. The island 112 is arranged such that its flat surface is perpendicular to the direction of movement of a detection target.

[0027] Lines 113 to 115 contain a power supply terminal 113, to which a power supply voltage is applied, a ground terminal 114, to which a ground voltage is applied, and an output terminal 115 for outputting a signal. Thus, lines 113 to 115 are three lines for power supply, ground, and a signal. A terminal 116 is connected to a far end of each of lines 113 to 115. Terminal 116 is located in connector 104 of housing 101. Terminal 116 is also connected to a wiring harness.

[0028] In the present embodiment, the ground wire 114 of the wires 113 to 115 is formed integrally with the island 112. The island 112 can be completely separate from all wires 113 to 115.

[0029] The processing circuit chip 109 and the sensor chip 110 are mounted on the island 112 using an adhesive or similar material. The processing circuit chip 109 contains a circuit unit that processes signals from the sensor chip 110. The sensor chip 110 contains a magnetic resistive element whose resistance changes when influenced by an external magnetic field. The magnetic resistive element is, for example, an AMR, GMR, or TMR. Lines 113 to 115 are electrically connected to the processing circuit chip 109 via wires or cables 117. The processing circuit chip 109 is electrically connected to the sensor chip 110 via wires or cables 118.

[0030] The molding resin 111 seals the island 112, parts of the lines 113 to 115, the processing circuit chip 109 and the sensor chip 110. The molding resin 111 is formed into a shape that is fixed in the hollow part of the magnet 106.

[0031] A detection signal generated by the magnetic detection system, which uses a magnetic resistance element, is described below. As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the holder 107 is positioned with a predetermined gap to the detection target 200. When the detection target 200 moves relative to the holder 107, the detection signal is at its maximum in the center of the detection target 200 in the direction of movement. If the gap increases, the amplitude of the detection signal decreases. Conversely, if the gap decreases, the amplitude of the detection signal increases. It is possible to detect the position of the detection target 200 by setting a threshold value for the detection signal.

[0032] Fig. Figure 5 only illustrates the relationship between the movement of the detection target 200 and a detection signal from a magnetic detection element. The detection signal is generated by outputs from several magnetic resistance elements, which will be described later.

[0033] When the magnetic detection system, which uses a Hall effect sensor, is used (not claimed), the shaped IC 105 is inserted into the holder 107 and fixed therein, as shown in the schematic top view of the Fig. 6 and the schematic cross-sectional view of the Fig. Figure 7 shows the molded IC 105 containing the conductor frame 108, an IC chip 119, a magnet 120 and the molding resin 111.

[0034] The island 112 of the conductor frame 108 is arranged such that its flat surface is parallel to the direction of movement of the detection target 200. The conductors 113 to 115 are each arranged perpendicular to the direction of movement of the detection target 200. The ground conductor 114 is integrated with the island 112 to form a right angle with it. A terminal 116 is connected to a far end of each of the respective conductors 113 to 115.

[0035] The IC chip 119 contains several Hall-effect sensors and a signal processing circuit. That is, the magnetic detection system that uses the Hall-effect sensors employs a single-chip configuration. The magnet 120 is fixed to a surface of the island 112, which faces a surface on which the IC chip 119 is located. The leads 113 to 115 are each electrically connected to the IC chip 119 via wires or cables 121. The resin 111 is formed into a shape that is fixed in the hollow part of the holder 107.

[0036] A detection signal generated by the magnetic detection system that uses Hall-effect sensors is described below. As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 8, in a case where two Hall-effect sensors (X, Y) are arranged on the magnet 120, each detection signal corresponding to the position of the respective Hall-effect sensor (X, Y) is at its maximum when the detection target 200 moves relative to the holder 107. The relationship between a gap and the amplitude of a detection signal is similar to that of the magnetic detection system that uses a magnetic resistance element. It is possible to detect the position of the detection target 200 by setting a threshold value for each detection signal.

[0037] The present embodiment uses a magnetic detection system that incorporates a magnetic resistance element. The magnetic resistance element for detecting a magnetic vector has the advantage of being able to compensate for accuracy errors caused by changes in the gap. Furthermore, the magnetic resistance element has the advantage of reducing or eliminating the effect of mechanical stress induced in the sensor chip 110. Consequently, it is possible to achieve high-accuracy detection.

[0038] The following describes a circuit configuration in the sensor chip 110 and the processing circuit chip 109. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 9, the position sensor 100 is electrically connected to a controller 300 via a cable harness 400. If the shaped IC 105 has three lines 113 to 115 as described above, the cable harness 400 contains three wires or cables.

[0039] The control unit 300 is, for example, a transmission control unit (TCU). The control unit 300 comprises a power supply unit 301, a control unit 302, and a ground unit 303. The power supply unit 301 is a circuit unit that applies a power supply voltage to the position sensor 100. The control unit 302 is a circuit unit that executes a predetermined control action according to an output signal input from the position sensor 100. The ground unit 303 is a circuit unit that sets a ground voltage for the position sensor 100. The control unit 300 can be configured as an electronic control unit (ECU).

[0040] The position sensor 100 includes a detector 122 and a signal processor 123. The detector 122 contains a magnet 106 and a sensing element 124, which is arranged on the sensor chip 110. The signal processor 123 is located in the processing circuit chip 109. The sensing element 124 and the signal processor 123 are operated based on a power supply voltage and a ground voltage supplied by the controller 300.

[0041] The detector 122 generates multiple detection signals corresponding to several regions along the direction of movement of the detection target 200, which exhibit different phase differences based on a change in the magnetic field received by the detection target 200. The regions located along the direction of movement of the detection target 200 are not arranged parallel to the direction of movement of the detection target 200, but are arranged serially in one direction along the direction of movement of the detection target 200.

[0042] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 10, the detection target 200 comprises four area sections 201 to 204, corresponding to the respective areas A to D. The respective area sections 201 to 204 are formed by a rectangular plate element. The respective area sections 201 to 204 are connected stepwise in a direction of movement of the detection target 200 on a detection surface 205 of the detection target 200, which points towards the detector 122.

[0043] "Stepwise connected" means that area part 201 and area part 202 are connected on the detection surface 205, while being displaced relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement. Similarly, area part 202 and area part 203 are connected on the detection surface 205, while being displaced relative to each other in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement. The same applies to area part 203 and area part 204. In each of area parts 201 to 204, both end sections along the direction of movement, i.e., the two sections of the longer side, have a step-like shape. Area part 202, which is adjacent to area part 201, is serially connected to area part 201 in one direction.Area part 203 is serially connected to area part 202 in one direction on a side of area part 202 that is opposite to the side of area part 202 that is connected to area part 201. Similarly, area part 204 is serially connected to area part 203 in one direction on a side of area part 203 that is opposite to the side of area part 203 that is connected to area part 202.

[0044] The surface of the sensor chip 110, on which the detection element 124 is arranged, is oriented in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the detection target 200. When the detection target 200 moves in the direction of movement relative to the detector 122, whose position is fixed, the respective area parts 201 to 204 move relative to the detector 122 in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement, i.e., an in-plane direction of the detection surface 205. The positional relationship between the detector 122 and the respective area parts 201 to 204 is changed by the movement of the detection target 200. Fig. 10 represents a positional relationship between the detector 122 and the respective area parts 201 to 204 by providing the detector 122 for the respective area parts 201 to 204.

[0045] The detection target 200 is formed, for example, by pressing a plate element made of a magnetic material. The area sections 201 to 204 can have the same or different lengths in the direction of movement. The area sections 201 to 204 can also have the same or different lengths in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement, i.e., the in-plane direction of the detection surface 205. The detection target 200 is fixed to a component such as a shaft. The area sections 201 and 204 at the respective two ends of the detection target 200 can be fixed to the shaft.

[0046] The detection element 124 contains three pairs of elements, i.e. a first magnetic resistance element pair, a second magnetic resistance element pair and a third magnetic resistance element pair, whose resistance values ​​change depending on the movement of the detection target 200.

[0047] Although not shown, the first, second, and third magnetic resistance element pairs are arranged such that the second magnetic resistance element pair is positioned between the first and third magnetic resistance element pairs in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the detection target 200. The second magnetic resistance element pair is inserted between the first and third magnetic resistance element pairs. A bias magnetic field is applied to the second magnetic resistance element pair along the central axis of the magnet 106. A bias magnetic field is applied to the first and third magnetic resistance element pairs such that it surrounds the ends of the magnet 106.

[0048] Each pair of magnetoresistive elements is configured as a half-bridge circuit, with two magnetoresistive elements connected in series between a power supply and ground. Each magnetoresistive element pair detects a change in resistance when the two magnetoresistive elements are influenced by a magnetic field corresponding to the movement of the detection target 200. Each magnetoresistive element pair outputs a voltage at the junction between the two magnetoresistive elements as a waveform signal based on the change in resistance. In the configuration where the magnetoresistive element pairs are driven by a current source, a voltage between both ends of the respective magnetoresistive element pairs is also output as a waveform signal.

[0049] In addition to the magnetoresistive element pairs, the detector 122 also contains the first through fourth operational amplifiers (not shown). The intermediate potential at the point of contact of the first magnetoresistive element pair is assumed to be defined as V1, and the intermediate potential at the point of contact of the second magnetoresistive element pair is assumed to be defined as V2. The first operational amplifier is a differential amplifier designed to calculate (V1 - V2) and output the result as R1. The intermediate potential at the point of contact of the third magnetoresistive element pair is assumed to be defined as V3. The second operational amplifier is a differential amplifier designed to calculate (V2 - V3) and output the result as R2.

[0050] The third operational amplifier is a differential amplifier designed to receive an input of R1 (= V1 - V2) from the first operational amplifier, an input of R2 (= V2 - V3) from the second operational amplifier, calculate R2 - R1 and output the result as S1 (= V2 - V3) - (V1 - V2)).

[0051] The fourth operational amplifier is a differential amplifier designed to receive an input of the intermediate potential V1 from the intermediate point of the first magnetoresistive element pair, to receive an input of the intermediate potential V3 from the intermediate point of the third magnetoresistive element pair, to calculate (V1 - V3), and to output the result as S2. Signal S2 has a waveform with a phase difference relative to signal S1.

[0052] The detector 122 generates and receives the signal S1 (= V1 - V3) and the signal S2 (= 2V2 - V1 - V3) from the outputs of the magnetoresistive element pairs. The detector 122 outputs the signals S1 and S2 to the signal processor 123 as detection signals.

[0053] The signal processor 123 receives detection signals from the detector 122 and identifies the position of the detection target 200 as the position of any one of the areas of the detection target 200 based on a combination of a magnitude relationship between a given detection signal and a threshold value. The signal processor 123 outputs the position of the detection target 200 to the controller 300. The signal processor 123 includes a processing unit 125 and an output circuit unit 126.

[0054] The processing unit 125 receives a second detection signal input from the detector 122 and determines the position of the detection target 200 based on the detection signal. The processing unit 125 has a common threshold for each detection signal.

[0055] The processing unit 125 compares the signals S1 and S2, which are the detection signals, with the threshold value. If the signals S1 and S2 are greater than the threshold value, the processing unit 125 determines a state as high (Hi). Conversely, if the signals S1 and S2 are less than the threshold value, the processing unit 125 determines a state as low (Lo). The processing unit 125 determines the range of wave 200 that is detected by the detector 122 based on a high / low combination of the signals S1 and S2.

[0056] Especially when signal S1 is high and signal S2 is low, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the detector 122 detects a region of the area part 201 of the detection target 200. That is, the processing unit 127 determines the position of the wave as the detection target 200. The state of the wave when a position in such a region is determined is referred to as "state A".

[0057] Similarly, detector 122 detects a region of area 202 of the detection target 200 when signal S1 is high and signal S2 is high. The state of wave 200 when a position in such a region is determined is referred to as "state B".

[0058] Similarly, detector 122 detects a region of area part 203 of detection target 200 when signal S1 is low and signal S2 is high. The state of the wave when a position in such a region is determined is called "state C".

[0059] When signal S1 is low and signal S2 is also low, detector 122 detects a region of area 204 of the detection target 200. The state of the wave when a position in such a region is determined is referred to as "state D". As described above, processing unit 125 determines the position of the detection target 200 as a position in one of the regions in the direction of movement of the detection target 200.

[0060] Based on a determination result from the processing unit 125, the output circuit unit 126 outputs a position signal to the controller 300, indicating any one of the states A to D. The output circuit unit 126 obtains information about states A to D, which are determined based on the detection signal from the processing unit 125. The output circuit unit 126 outputs a position signal to the controller 300 with a value consisting of discrete values ​​set in several ranges, corresponding to a range that covers a specific position.

[0061] In the present embodiment, the position signals with discrete values ​​are voltage signals with different voltage values. The voltage values ​​representing the respective states A to D are set to discrete values ​​such that they do not overlap. State A, for example, is represented by V Hset, state B becomes V M1 set up, state C becomes V M2 set, and state D becomes V L set. A relationship between these voltage values ​​is V. H > V M1 > V M2 > V L It is only necessary that the discrete values ​​of states A to D do not overlap. Therefore, the discrete values ​​can be set to any voltage values ​​within a predetermined voltage range. The predetermined voltage range can be identical for states A to D, for example, 1 V. Alternatively, the predetermined voltage ranges for states A to D can differ, so that, for example, state A lies within 1 V and state B lies within 2 V.

[0062] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, the position signal has a discrete voltage value that changes incrementally as the detection target 200 moves in the direction of motion. If the voltage value of the position signal momentarily increases or decreases due to noise, the position signal can reach a voltage value that indicates other states. If the control unit 302 reads a voltage value from the controller 300 for a predetermined time, the influence of the noise can be essentially eliminated. That is, the position sensor 100 can output a signal with high noise immunity. The configuration of the position sensor 100 according to the present embodiment has been described above.

[0063] The control unit 302 of the controller 300 receives a position signal input from the position sensor 100 and uses the signal for the desired control. Examples of the desired control include switching a parking light on and off in a vehicle's instrument cluster, enabling or disabling another control depending on whether a switch position is the park position, disabling the position sensor 100 in the event of a fault, and activating a fault indicator light.

[0064] In some cases, the control unit 302 receives a different signal instead of the position signal. This signal cannot originally be an output from the position sensor 100. In this case, it is assumed that the signal is generated due to a fault other than a fault in the position sensor 100. The fault is assumed, for example, to be a fault in a communication device such as the wiring harness 400. Therefore, the control unit 300 can detect a fault in the communication device.

[0065] A comparative example describes a case in which a block-shaped detection target 500 moves in the direction of movement, as in Fig. Figure 12 illustrates this. When the detection target 500 moves away from the detector 122, the magnet 106 of the detector 122 does not react to the detection target 500. The signal S1 converges to a threshold value. Therefore, it is impossible to determine the direction of movement of the detection target 500.

[0066] In a case where the detection target 500 has a shape with a length in the direction of motion, it is difficult for the detector 122 to detect the center of the direction of motion of the detection target 500. The detector 122 detects both edges of the detection target 500 in the direction of motion in order to determine the center of the direction of motion. Therefore, it is difficult to determine the center of the direction of motion in a situation where the detection target 500 has a greater length and the distance between the two edges is large.

[0067] In the present embodiment, the area sections 201 to 204, which are the parts to be detected by the detector, are arranged within a region of the direction of movement of the detection target 200. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 11, signals S1 and S2 do not converge at the threshold. The signals are clearly shown as high or low with respect to the threshold. It is also possible to detect the center of the detection target in the direction of movement by defining the boundary between area part 202 and area part 203 as the center of the detection target 200.

[0068] To avoid any situation of the comparative example that is in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the relative relationship between the detection target 200 and the detector 122 is maintained even when the detection target 200 is moving. In other words, the region sections 201 and 204, which specify the position of the detection target 200, are also located on a section of the detection target 200 that is positioned at both ends of the regions. Therefore, it is possible for the detector 122 to generate a detection signal based on a change in the magnetic field under the influence of the region sections 201 and 204.

[0069] In comparison to the example above, it is possible to detect the movement of the target 200 with a single detector 122, even if the magnitude of the target's movement is large, because the detectable area of ​​the detector 122 is significantly wider. By segmenting the target 200 into a shape divided into a number of distinguishable positions, it is possible to determine each segment and obtain an output corresponding to that segment.

[0070] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, detector 200 in a modified example can contain three region sections 201 to 203. It should be noted that the Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 13 is not within the scope of protection of the claims. The processing unit 123 defines a case in which the signal S3 is high and the signal S4 is low as "state A". The processing unit 123 defines a case in which the signal S4 is high as "state B". The processing unit 123 defines a case in which the signal S3 is low and the signal S4 is low as "state C". In this case, three discrete voltage values ​​are measured in these respective three states as shown in Figure 123. Fig. 13 shown.

[0071] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 14, in a modified example, signals S5, S6, which differ from signals S3, S4, which are in Fig. The 13 shown exhibit a distinct phase difference and are generated. It should be noted that the in Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 14 is not within the scope of protection of the claims. The signals S5, S6 can be generated by changing an arithmetic expression used for an output of a respective pair of magnetic resistance elements. The central section 202 can be shorter in the direction of movement than the section 202 that is shown in Figure 14. Fig. 13 is shown.

[0072] The number of detectable states can be freely changed by suitably modifying the number of area segments 201 to 204 or the detection signals with a distinguishable phase difference. The present invention is not limited to the detection of three or four states. Detection of a different number of states, such as five or seven, is possible. It should be noted that a different number of states is not within the scope of the claims.

[0073] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 15, the area sections 201 to 204 of the detection unit 200 can also be configured as spatial segments in a modified example, obtained by punching a section of a plate element. In this case, the signals S7, S8 with a phase difference are obtained by inverting the signals S1, S2, which are shown in Figure 15. Fig. 11 are shown.

[0074] The signal processor 123 designates a case in which signal S7 is low and signal S8 is high as "state A", a case in which signals S7 and S8 are low as "state B", a case in which signal S7 is high and signal S8 is low as "state C", and a case in which signals S1 and S2 are high as "state D". The position detected by the detector 122 can be a spatial section formed in a window of the detection target 200 instead of a material section of the detection target 200.

[0075] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 16, in a modified example, a transition section 206 can be arranged between area parts 201 and 202 and between area parts 202 and 203. Regardless of the number of area parts 201 to 204, the transition section 206 can be arranged between adjacent area parts. The shape of the transition section 206 is not limited to a linear shape or an R-shape. The transition section 206 can also be used in a case where the area parts 201 to 204 are configured as spatial sections.

[0076] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 17, the chip surface of the sensor chip 110, on which the detection element is arranged, can be inclined with respect to the direction of movement of the detector 122, instead of being perpendicular to the direction of movement of the detector 122. It should be noted that the Fig. The embodiment shown in 17 does not fall within the scope of protection of the claims. Fig. 17 represents the transition section 206, which is located at the detection target 200. However, the transition section 206 does not have to be located at the detection target 200.

[0077] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 18, the area sections 201 to 204 can have a non-uniform shape with a block on a plate element, according to a modified example.

[0078] As it is in the Fig. 19 and Fig. As shown in Figure 20, a section of a plate element with a circular sector may be punched out in the target area. Taking the punched shape into account, the area parts 201 to 204 can be described as in Fig. Figure 10 shows the areas arranged stepwise in a circumferential direction of the circular sector. Thus, the position of the respective areas A to D can be determined by rotating the detection target 200 around the axis.

[0079] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 21, the detection target 200 can contain a rotatable body such as a rotor. The area sections 201 to 204, which correspond to a detection area, are shown in a section with a dashed line in Figure 21. Fig. 21 arranged. As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 22, four sections 201 to 204 are arranged in a θ-direction of the rotation angle. It is possible to determine the rotational state of the detection target 200 using the detector 122.

[0080] The control unit 300 according to the present embodiment corresponds to an external device. Second embodiment

[0081] In the present embodiment, the parts that differ from the first embodiment are described. In the present embodiment, the output circuit unit 126 outputs pulse signals with different pulse widths to the controller 300 as signals with discrete values. The discrete value signal is a PWM signal. The discrete value is a pulse width value, a signal period, a duty cycle, or similar. It is possible to improve the noise immunity as in the first embodiment.

[0082] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 23, the pulse width of a signal in state A is set to its narrowest, and the pulse width of a signal in state D is set to its widest. The pulse width of a signal in states B and C is set to an intermediate width between the pulse width of the signal in state A and the pulse width of the signal in state D. The pulse width can change stepwise from state A to state B or it can change randomly. Third embodiment

[0083] In the present embodiment, the configurations differing from the first and second embodiments are described. In the present embodiment, the entire detection target 200 or a part of the detection target 200 is formed by a magnet, and the position sensor 200 does not have the magnets 106, 120.

[0084] As it is in the Fig. 24 and Fig. As shown in Figure 25, magnet 106 is not located or present in the magnet detection system that uses the magnetic resistance element. As shown in the Fig. 26 and Fig. As shown in Figure 27, magnet 120 is similarly absent from the magnet detection system that uses the Hall-effect sensor. The molded IC 105 is inserted directly into the holder 107 and fixed to the holder 107.

[0085] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 28, the detection target 200 is configured as a magnet 207, which has a magnetization direction on the side of the sensor chip 110 in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the detection target 200. The detector 122, which is arranged on the sensor chip 110, outputs a signal S9, which is maximal or minimal at the center of a magnetic pole, and a signal S10, which is maximal or minimal at the boundary of a respective magnetic pole, to the signal processor 123. The signals S9 and S10 are detection signals. Even though the detection target 200 is formed by the magnet 207, the signals S9 and S10 exhibit a phase difference.

[0086] The N-pole and the S-pole of magnet 207, which is in Fig. The arrangement shown in Figure 28 can be reversed. The detector 122 can be configured such that the signal S9 is maximal or minimal at the boundary of a respective magnetic pole, and the number of magnetic poles contained in a region 201 to 204 is not limited to three. The number of magnetic poles can be any other number.

[0087] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 29, the sections 201 to 204 of the detection target 200 are configured such that the N-pole of the magnet 207 is positioned between two S-poles. The magnetization direction of the magnet 207 is perpendicular to the surface of the drawing. The state determination is similar to the situation shown in Fig. Figure 11 of the first embodiment is shown.

[0088] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 30, the detection target 200 can be configured, according to a modified example, such that the magnet 207, which has the region sections 201 to 204, is attached to a plate element. The magnetization direction is a direction perpendicular to the surface of the plate element.

[0089] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 31, the detection target 200 can be magnetized according to a modified example such that a portion of a rubber magnet 209, arranged on a magnetic plate element 208, becomes the magnet 207. The magnetization direction is perpendicular to the plate surface of the rubber magnet 209.

[0090] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 32, the detection target 200 can be configured according to a modified example such that the magnet 207 is attached to a plate element which has a circular sector.

[0091] As it is in Fig. As shown in Figure 33, the detection target 200 can be configured, according to a modified example, such that the magnet 207 is arranged on a rotatable body, such as a rotor. As shown in Fig. Figure 34 shows the magnet 207, which is contained in four sections 201 to 204 in the θ-direction of the rotation angle, in the section surrounded by a dashed line. Fig. 33 arranged. Magnet 207 can have a similar configuration to that in Fig. 31 or can be designed such that the magnet 207 is attached to the plate element. Other embodiments

[0092] The Position Sensor 100, for example, is used not only for vehicles, but also for industrial robots and manufacturing facilities as a sensor that detects the positions of moving components.

[0093] Above, a configuration was described in which the detection target 200 does not contain the magnet 207 and the position sensors 100 contain the magnets 106 and 107, and a configuration in which the detection target 200 contains the magnet 207 and the position sensor 100 does not contain the magnets 106 and 120. However, a combination of these is just one example. The magnet 207 can be included in the detection target 200, and the magnets 106 and 120 can be included in the position sensor 100. In this case, the operation of the position sensor 100 is similar to that of the first embodiment.

Claims

[1] Position detection system which features: a detection target (200) that is movable along a direction of movement and has a magnetic body; and a position sensor (100) which has: a detector (122) which features: a magnet (106) that generates a bias magnetic field, a detection element (124) on which the bias magnetic field is applied, and a shaped IC (105) containing a sensor chip (110), wherein a chip surface of the sensor chip (110), on which the detection element (124) is arranged, is oriented in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the detection target (200), wherein the detector (122) is designed to generate multiple detection signals containing a distinguishable phase difference and corresponding to multiple areas arranged in one direction along the direction of movement of the detection target (200), based on a change in a magnetic field associated with a movement of the detection target (200) and received by the detection element (124) from the detection target (200); and a signal processor (123) designed to to obtain the detection signals from the detector (122), to compare the detection signals with a threshold value, and to determine a position of the detection target (200) as a position in one of the areas based on a combination of a magnitude relationship between the detection signals and the threshold, wherein the recording target (200) contains four area sections (201 to 204) corresponding to the respective areas, wherein the area parts (201 to 204) are connected stepwise in the direction of movement of the detection target (200) on a detection surface (205) of the detection target (200) such that the area parts (201 to 204) are connected serially along the direction of movement, while in a top view of the detection surface (205) they are offset from each other in the direction perpendicular to the direction of movement, and wherein the detection area (205) points towards the detector (122), wherein, when the detection target (200) moves in the direction of movement with respect to the detection element (124), the respective area parts (201 to 204) move in the direction perpendicular to the direction of movement with respect to the detection element (124), wherein the detection element (124) comprises a first pair of magnetic resistance elements, a second pair of magnetic resistance elements and a third pair of magnetic resistance elements, the resistance values ​​of which change depending on a movement of the detection target (200), wherein the second pair of magnetic resistance elements is arranged in the direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the detection target (200) between the first pair of magnetic resistance elements and the third pair of magnetic resistance elements, wherein an intermediate potential at an intermediate point of the first pair of magnetic resistance elements is defined as V1, an intermediate potential at an intermediate point of the second pair of magnetic resistance elements as V2 and an intermediate potential at the intermediate point of the third pair of magnetic resistance elements as V3, wherein the detector (122) contains: a first differential amplifier designed to calculate (V1 - V2) and output the result as R1, a second differential amplifier designed to calculate (V2 - V3) and output the result as R2, a third differential amplifier designed to receive R1 (= V1 - V2) from the first differential amplifier, to receive R2 (= V2 - V3) from the second differential amplifier, to calculate R2 - R1 and to output the result as S1 (= V2 - V3) - (V1 - V2)), and a fourth differential amplifier designed to receive V1, receive V3, calculate (V1 - V3) and output the result as S2, and wherein the detector (122) is configured to output S1 and S2 to the signal processor (123) as detection signals. [2] Position detection system which features: a detection target (200) that is movable along a direction of movement and is designed as a magnet (207) having a magnetization direction in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement; and a position sensor (100) which has: a detector (122) which features: a capture element (124), and a shaped IC (105) containing a sensor chip (110), wherein a chip surface of the sensor chip (110), on which the detection element (124) is arranged, is oriented in the direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the detection target (200), wherein the detector (122) is designed to generate multiple detection signals containing a distinguishable phase difference and corresponding to multiple areas arranged in a direction along the direction of movement of the detection target (200), based on a change in a magnetic field associated with a movement of the detection target (200) and received by the detection element (124) from the detection target (200); and a signal processor (123) designed to to obtain the detection signals from the detector (122), to compare the detection signals with a threshold value, and to determine a position of the detection target (200) as a position in one of the areas based on a combination of a magnitude relationship between the detection signals and the threshold, wherein the recording target (200) contains four area parts (201-204) corresponding to the respective areas, wherein the area parts (201 to 204) are connected stepwise in the direction of movement of the detection target (200) on a detection surface (205) of the detection target (200) such that the area parts (201 to 204) are connected serially along the direction of movement, while in a top view of the detection surface (205) they are offset from each other in the direction perpendicular to the direction of movement, and where the detection area (205) points towards the detector (122), wherein, when the detection target (200) moves in the direction of movement with respect to the detection element (124), the respective area parts (201 to 204) move in the direction perpendicular to the direction of movement with respect to the detection element (124), wherein the detection element (124) comprises a first pair of magnetic resistance elements, a second pair of magnetic resistance elements and a third pair of magnetic resistance elements, the resistance values ​​of which change depending on a movement of the detection target (200), wherein the second pair of magnetic resistance elements is arranged in the direction perpendicular to the direction of movement of the detection target (200) between the first pair of magnetic resistance elements and the third pair of magnetic resistance elements, wherein an intermediate potential at an intermediate point of the first pair of magnetic resistance elements is defined as V1, an intermediate potential at an intermediate point of the second pair of magnetic resistance elements as V2 and an intermediate potential at the intermediate point of the third pair of magnetic resistance elements as V3, wherein the detector (122) contains: a first differential amplifier designed to calculate (V1 - V2) and output the result as R1, a second differential amplifier designed to calculate (V2 - V3) and output the result as R2, a third differential amplifier designed to receive R1 (= V1 - V2) from the first differential amplifier, to receive R2 (= V2 - V3) from the second differential amplifier, to calculate R2 - R1 and to output the result as S1 (= V2 - V3) - (V1 - V2)), and a fourth differential amplifier designed to receive V1, receive V3, calculate (V1 - V3) and output the result as S2, and wherein the detector (122) is configured to output S1 and S2 to the signal processor (123) as detection signals. [3] Position detection system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each area part (201 to 204) is a rectangular plate element. [4] Position detection system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein an end section of the detection surface (205) which points towards the detector (122) is stepped. [5] Position detection system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the signal processor (123) is designed to set respective discrete values ​​for the ranges, and wherein the signal processor (123) is designed to output a position signal, indicating one of the discrete values ​​corresponding to one of the ranges covering the position of the detection target (200) determined by the signal processor (123), to an external device (300). [6] Position detection system according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the areas are multiple detectable areas arranged successively in one direction along the direction of movement of the detection target (200). [7] Position detection system according to claim 5, wherein the position signal, which is one of the discrete values, is a voltage signal having a distinguishable voltage value. [8] Position detection system according to claim 5, wherein the position signal, which is one of the discrete values, is a pulse signal with a distinguishable pulse width. [9] Position detection system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the detection target (200) is a movable component which moves in connection with the operation of a switching position of a vehicle.

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