Convex Position Detection Magnet for End-Range Linearity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional position detection devices using magnets and magnetic sensors face challenges in achieving linearity of position detection, particularly near the magnet end portions, due to complex and large configurations, and require additional components beyond the magnet and sensor.

Innovation Solution

A position detection magnet with at least three convex portions arranged in a row on one surface, parallel to the magnetization direction, which are bipolarly magnetized and oriented such that their arrangement direction is not perpendicular to the magnetization direction, improving linearity by adjusting the magnetic flux density's magnitude and direction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a yoke is used to obtain linearity of position detection, then linearity is improved, but the device becomes complicated and large

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelinearity of position detectionVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention extracts and eliminates the yoke component from the position detection device. By removing the yoke and redesigning the magnet structure with convex portions, the patent achieves linearity improvement without requiring the complex yoke assembly, thus resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention merges the functions of the yoke and magnet into a single integrated magnet structure with convex portions. The magnet with convex portions directly provides both the magnetic field generation and the geometric features needed for linear position detection, eliminating the need for separate yoke components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Measurement precision

If conventional magnet design is used, then the configuration is simple, but linearity cannot be obtained up to the vicinity of the magnet end portion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelinearity of position detectionVSAvoiddetection range
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention applies local quality by creating convex portions at specific locations on the magnet surface. These localized geometric features modify the magnetic flux distribution in specific regions, enabling linear position detection to extend to the vicinity of the magnet end portions while maintaining overall configuration simplicity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The magnet surface is segmented into multiple convex portions arranged in a row. This segmentation creates distinct magnetic flux patterns that improve linearity across the detection range, particularly near the end portions, without requiring a complete redesign of the entire magnet structure

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 configuration enhances linearity of position detection with a simple and compact setup, reducing linearity errors near the magnet end portions and improving overall detection accuracy.

Implementation Method 1

a position detection magnet bipolarly magnetized comprising at least three or more convex portions... magnetized in the same direction as the position detection magnet

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetism: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS20240404738A1Position detection magnet and position detection device
Publication Date: 2024.12.05 CANON KK
  • US20240404738A1 patent drawing
  • US20240404738A1 patent drawing
  • US20240404738A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A position detection magnet capable of improving the linearity of position detection with a simple and compact configuration is provided. The position detection magnet bipolarly magnetized includes at least three or more convex portions. The at least three or more convex portions are arranged in a row on one surface of surfaces parallel to a magnetization direction of the position detection magnet. The at least three or more convex portions are made of the same material as the position detection magnet and are magnetized in the same direction as the position detection magnet. An angle formed by an arrangement direction of the at least three or more convex portions and the magnetization direction is not perpendicular.