Arc Position Encoder Extends 180-Degree Range to 360 Degrees
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing angular position encoders, particularly those using magnetic sensing techniques, are limited to sensing angular positions within 180-degree or 360-degree ranges, requiring complex hardware and signal processing, and lack the ability to seamlessly extend their sensing range beyond 180 degrees without increasing dimensions.
Innovation Solution
An arc position encoder with a 180-degree sensing range is extended to cover up to 360 degrees by incorporating polarity transition sensors and magnetic field sensors, allowing the detection of magnetic pole transitions and proximity within the 180-degree range, enabling the determination of angular positions across the full 360-degree range without additional structural elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If additional structural elements are added to extend the sensing range beyond 180 degrees, then the angular position sensing range is improved, but the device dimensions and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the 180-degree arc position encoder perform multiple functions: it senses both positions within its native 180-degree range and positions within the extended 360-degree range by utilizing the magnetic target configuration where one magnetic pole is within range and another is outside range, eliminating the need for separate encoders for different ranges
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the interpretation parameters of the encoder rather than its physical structure. By processing signals to determine which magnetic pole is within range and applying appropriate offset calculations, the encoder extends its sensing range from 180 to 360 degrees without adding structural elements
2Adaptability or versatility
If the sensing range is extended to 360 degrees, then the angular position coverage is improved, but the outer dimensions of the encoder increase
Solution Approach 1:
The single 180-degree encoder is made to serve dual purposes: measuring positions in both the 0-180 degree range and the 180-360 degree range by utilizing the relationship between the two magnetic poles on the target, thereby achieving 360-degree coverage without requiring a larger encoder body
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex hardware and signal processing are used to achieve 360-degree sensing, then the sensing range is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The existing hardware of the 180-degree encoder is made to perform 360-degree sensing by utilizing the magnetic field information from both magnetic poles. The same sensors and processing circuitry are used, but the signal interpretation is extended to cover the full 360-degree range through offset calculations based on which pole is within range
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
This solution allows for the sensing of angular positions over a 360-degree range using a single arc position encoder, reducing complexity and maintaining minimal additional components and signal processing, while maintaining compact dimensions.
Implementation Method 1
one or more magnetic field sensors disposed within the base between the first and second ends
Implementation Method 2
one or more polarity transition sensors disposed within the base between the first and second ends, and a processing module configured to receive one or more polarity transition signals from the one or more polarity transition sensors
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure describes techniques for sensing an angular position of a rotating object over an angular position range that includes up to 360 degrees using an arc position encoder comprising a substantially 180-degree angular position sensing range. The encoder may include a base comprising an arc length defined by a first and a second end, one or more magnetic field sensors disposed within the base between the first and second ends, and one or more polarity transition sensors also disposed within the base between the first and second ends. The encoder may further include a magnetic target that includes first and second magnetic poles disposed on opposite ends so as to generate a uniform magnetic field, wherein the magnetic target is coupled to the rotating object so as to rotate about an axis of rotation located substantially in a center of a circle defined by the base.