Encoded Ring Sensor Layout for Compact Angular and Axial Position Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensor arrangements for detecting both angular and axial positions of a rotatable and axially displaceable encoded member require significant space and computational power, making them unsuitable for compact applications like electronic watches, where separate sensors for angular and axial measurements are needed, occupying excessive space within the watch case.
Innovation Solution
A combined angular and axial position sensor arrangement using two or more adjacent sensors and an encoded member with specific axial and angular detection rings, where the physical characteristics of the encoder cause sensors to detect distinct logical states, allowing for the determination of both positions with a minimal number of sensors and reduced space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate sensor arrangements are used for angular and axial position measurement, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but device volume increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines angular and axial position measurement functions into a single sensor arrangement. Multiple sensors detect both angular position (through circumferential patterns) and axial position (through axial displacement) simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate measurement systems and reducing overall device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor arrangement is designed to perform multiple functions: detecting angular position, detecting axial position, and determining operational modes based on axial position. The same sensors that measure angular position also measure axial displacement, making the system universal and eliminating redundant components.
2Measurement precision
If multiple adjacent sensors are used for angular position detection, then angular measurement accuracy improves, but the number of sensors and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple sensors used for angular position detection are also utilized for axial position measurement. The same sensor array that provides angular resolution through circumferential patterns simultaneously detects axial displacement through changes in the axial position of the encoded member, reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds axial dimension detection to the angular sensor array by detecting changes in the axial position of the encoded member. The sensors interpret signals differently based on whether the encoded member is rotated (angular position) or displaced axially (axial position), enabling dual-functionality without additional sensors.
3Reliability
If separate measurement arrangements are implemented for axial and angular positions, then measurement reliability is maintained, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges axial and angular measurement arrangements into a single integrated system. The same sensors, encoded member, and signal processing circuitry are used for both measurement functions, reducing manufacturing costs by eliminating duplicate components and simplifying assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is designed to reliably perform multiple functions using a single arrangement. The sensors and encoded member are configured to provide both angular and axial position information, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining measurement reliability through unified design and calibration.
Data Source
AI summary
The angular and axial position sensor arrangement includes several sensors arranged adjacently, and aligned parallel to the axis of an encoded member that is angularly and axially displaceable relative to the sensors. The encoded member includes N−1 axial detection encoded rings with value A along their entire circumference and includes an Nth axial detection encoded ring that is axially adjacent with value B, different from value A, along its entire circumference. The values of axial detection encoded rings are distinguishable by the sensors overlapping some axial detection encoded rings. The encoded member includes several angular detection encoded rings axially adjacent to the Nth axial detection encoded ring. The angular detection encoded rings include a coding pattern composed of A and B values along their circumference to determine angular position by some sensors overlapping them.