Integrated AMR and Spin-Valve Sensor for Dual Magnetic Field Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic field sensors are inadequate in simultaneously detecting different magnetic field components generated by a magnetic encoder, necessitating the development of robust sensors capable of accurate and reliable measurement of linear and/or rotary motion and position.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic field sensor integrating at least one magneto-resistive spin-valve sensor element and one Anisotropic Magneto-Resistive (AMR) sensor element, both configured to sense perpendicular magnetic field components, with shared exchange bias directions and formed on a common substrate, forming Wheatstone bridge circuits for enhanced sensitivity and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single type of magneto-resistive sensor is used, then the device complexity is low, but the ability to simultaneously detect different magnetic field components is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines different types of magneto-resistive sensor elements (AMR and spin-valve) into a single integrated sensor device. This merging allows the sensor to simultaneously detect multiple magnetic field components (radial and axial) that would require separate sensors otherwise, thereby increasing versatility while managing complexity through integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated sensor device is designed to perform multiple functions: detecting radial magnetic field components using AMR elements and axial magnetic field components using spin-valve elements. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate sensors, improving adaptability for various measurement applications.
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensor elements are integrated in a common package, then the measurement precision improves, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sensor elements (AMR and spin-valve) are merged into a common sensor package with shared structural components and mounting mechanisms. This integration allows for coordinated positioning of the elements, improving measurement precision through stable geometric relationships while managing manufacturing complexity through standardized assembly processes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables simultaneous detection of tangential and radial/axial magnetic field components, improving the detection of speed and position of a magnetic encoder, suitable for applications requiring dual sensitivity, such as cam- or crank sensors, with improved reliability and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
magneto-resistance denotes the property of a material or a multilayer device to change the value of its electrical resistance when an external magnetic field is applied to it
Implementation Method 2
Anisotropic Magneto-Resistive (AMR) sensor element which is configured to sense a second magnetic field component perpendicular to the first magnetic field component
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic field sensor includes at least one magneto-resistive spin-valve sensor element configured to sense a first magnetic field component, and at least one AMR sensor element configured to sense a second magnetic field component which is perpendicular to the first magnetic field component.