Hall Effect Sensor Offset Reduction via Segmented Series-Parallel Topology
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Hall effect sensor devices face challenges in reducing offset voltages and improving sensitivity, which limits their performance and cost-effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A Hall effect sensor device is designed with multiple individual Hall effect elements connected in series and parallel configurations, where each element has three contact terminals, and the middle contact terminals are interconnected to reduce offset voltages, with an integrated circuit for voltage application and evaluation, and a multiplexer circuit to implement the 'spinning current' method.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple Hall effect sensors are connected in parallel with middle contact terminals interconnected, then offset voltages are significantly reduced and signal-to-offset voltage ratio is increased, but device complexity increases due to additional interconnection structures
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple independent Hall effect sensors, each with its own Hall effect elements. These segmented sensors are then connected in parallel through interconnection structures that join corresponding middle contact terminals. This segmentation allows each sensor to contribute independently to offset reduction while maintaining modular design benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple Hall effect sensors are merged into a single integrated device through interconnection structures. The middle contact terminals of corresponding sensors are joined together, creating a unified device where the sensors work collectively to reduce offset voltages. This merging combines the advantages of multiple sensors while presenting a unified interface.
2Measurement precision
If Hall effect elements are connected in series with outer contact terminals coupled, then sensitivity is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases due to precise alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
Different contact terminals have different functions and properties. The middle contact terminals are designed with specific properties for Hall voltage extraction, while outer contact terminals are optimized for current injection and series connection. This local differentiation allows each terminal to be optimized for its specific function, reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the series connection requirements.
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 significantly reduces offset voltages, increases signal-to-offset voltage ratio, and enhances sensitivity, allowing for improved magnetic field detection and extended dynamic range, particularly at low magnetic field intensities.
Implementation Method 1
Hall effect sensor device... each of the two Hall effect sensors has at least four individual Hall effect elements... a Hall voltage can be picked off at the Hall contacts
Data Source
AI summary
A hall effect sensor device implemented on a semiconductor body, having a first Hall effect sensor and a second Hall effect sensor, each of the two Hall effect sensors has at least four individual Hall effect elements and the four Hall effect elements are connected in series, and each Hall effect element has three contact terminals arranged in a row, and the series connection is implemented through a coupling or interconnection of the two outer contact terminals. Semiconductor well regions of the individual Hall effect elements are separated from one another, and the first Hall effect sensor and the second Hall effect sensor are connected in parallel, whereby a middle contact terminal of a Hall effect element of the first Hall effect sensor is connected in each case with a middle contact terminal of a Hall effect element of the second Hall effect sensor.