Hall Sensor Programming via Power Supply Modulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hall sensors with upstream controllers require direct access to contact pins for programming, leading to increased complexity and susceptibility to errors during assembly and installation.
Innovation Solution
A circuit assembly where the Hall sensor and controller are integrated in a single housing, allowing programming through modulation or clocking of the Hall sensor power supply voltage, with a controller power supply voltage applied in a form that enables programming without direct access to Hall sensor terminals, and internal terminals configured for high impedance after programming to maintain a constant power supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the Hall sensor and controller are configured as separate units with direct access to contact pins, then programming can be performed after installation, but the number of components increases and susceptibility to errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the Hall sensor and controller into a single integrated unit with a common housing. The sensor assembly includes the Hall sensor, magnet, and controller positioned together, eliminating the need for separate programming operations on disconnected components. This integration reduces the number of components while maintaining programming capability through the power supply voltage terminal.
2Ease of operation
If direct access to contact pins is required for programming, then programming control can be achieved, but assembly complexity and error susceptibility increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply voltage terminal serves dual functions: it provides normal operating power to the Hall sensor during measurement mode and enables programming operations when clocked or modulated. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate programming access points, simplifying both assembly and operation while maintaining full programming control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own power supply voltage terminal to perform programming operations, eliminating the need for external programming interfaces or additional access points. The controller can program the Hall sensor through the existing power supply connection, making the system self-sufficient and reducing assembly complexity.
3Manufacturing precision
If the Hall sensor power supply voltage is clocked or modulated for programming, then the integrated circuit component can be programmed, but the power supply must be switched from constant to variable form
Solution Approach 1:
The power supply voltage terminal dynamically switches between two operational modes: constant voltage mode for normal sensor operation and clocked/modulated mode for programming operations. The controller manages this transition, providing the appropriate voltage form based on the operational state, thereby enabling precise programming while maintaining simple overall system architecture.
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
Enables programming of Hall sensors prior to installation without direct access to terminal contacts, reducing errors and complexity by integrating the Hall sensor and controller, and allowing seamless transition to measurement operations.
Implementation Method 1
Hall sensors having upstream controllers may be configured and used to monitor battery voltage in automobiles
Implementation Method 2
The Hall sensor is programmed by applying a clocked voltage, instead of a power supply voltage, to a Hall sensor power supply voltage terminal
Data Source
AI summary
A circuit assembly having a controller in which the Hall sensor or a programmable circuit component integrated therein is programmed by clocking or modulating a Hall sensor power supply voltage. A clocked or modulated controller power supply voltage is applied to the controller in clocked or modulated form; and where the clock or modulated Hall sensor power supply voltage is applied to the Hall sensor by the controller as a function of the clocked or modulated controller power supply voltage.