Hall Sensor Layout for Precise Transmission Position Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing sensor arrangements for detecting the position of transmission elements in commercial vehicle transmissions, particularly in automated manual transmissions (AMTs), face challenges in precision and durability due to interference from magnetic fields and wear, especially when measuring travel distances of up to 80 mm.

Innovation Solution

A sensor arrangement comprising an indicator element, detection elements, and an evaluation unit that corrects output signals to determine the position of a transmission element, with detection elements spaced apart and interacting via the Hall effect, minimizing interference by positioning them at varying distances from the actuator and using a common plane to reduce magnetic field interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If detection elements are positioned close to the actuator for compact design, then device complexity is reduced, but magnetic field interference from the actuator degrades measurement precision

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesensor arrangement structureVSAvoidposition detection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The detection elements are arranged in a plane that is inclined relative to the transmission direction, creating a three-dimensional spatial configuration. This angular arrangement allows detection elements to be positioned at varying distances from the actuator along the transmission path, enabling the system to maintain compact packaging while selectively positioning detection elements to minimize magnetic field interference and optimize measurement precision at different positions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Measurement precision

If multiple detection elements are spaced apart along the transmission direction to cover the full detection path, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition determination accuracyVSAvoidsensor arrangement structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The transmission path is divided into multiple detection areas, with detection elements spaced apart to cover different segments. Each detection element is responsible for a specific detection area along the transmission path, allowing the system to achieve comprehensive coverage and high measurement precision throughout the full 80 mm travel distance while maintaining a manageable structural complexity through modular segmentation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Measurement precision

If detection elements are positioned at varying distances from the actuator to reduce magnetic field interference, then measurement precision is improved, but the detection area coverage may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition detection accuracyVSAvoiddetection area coverage
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adapts the detection characteristics by positioning detection elements at varying distances from the actuator. The inclined plane configuration creates a dynamic spatial relationship where detection elements at different positions along the transmission path operate at different distances from the actuator, allowing the system to optimize measurement precision in each local detection area while collectively covering the full transmission path through the coordinated arrangement of multiple detection elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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 provides a wear-free and precise detection of transmission element positions, enhancing the efficiency of automated shifting processes in commercial vehicle transmissions by reducing interference from actuator magnetic fields and ensuring accurate position determination.

Implementation Method 1

detection elements, each configured to output a signal enabling the determination of the position of the indicator element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHall effect: Hall Effect

Data Source

PatentEP4431878B1Sensor assembly
Publication Date: 2026.01.28 KNORR BREMSE SYSTEME FUER NUTZFAHIZEUGE GMBH
  • EP4431878B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4431878B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4431878B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A sensor arrangement (1) for detecting the position (P) of a transmission element (2) displaceable on a transmission path (s) parallel to a transmission direction (x1) is disclosed, wherein the sensor arrangement (1) comprises: - an indicator element (1a) configured to be provided on the transmission element (2) and configured to be displaced together with the transmission element (2) parallel to the transmission direction (x1), - detection elements (1b) each configured to output a signal enabling the determination of the position of the indicator element (1a) at least along a section of the transmission direction (x1) when the indicator element (1a) is located in a detection area of ​​the respective detection element (1b),wherein the detection elements (1b) are arranged spaced apart from each other in the transmission direction (x1) and comprise at least one first detection element (1b') and one second detection element (1b"), and an evaluation unit (4) configured to determine the position (P) of the transmission element (2) on the transmission path (s) from the output signals of the detection elements (1b), wherein the sensor arrangement (1) is configured to correct the output signals of the detection elements (1b) before the evaluation unit (4) determines the position (P) of the transmission element (2) on the transmission path (s). Furthermore, an actuating mechanism and a clutch actuator are disclosed. Finally, a method for operating and a method for calibrating such a sensor arrangement are disclosed.