Integrated Inductive Position Sensing in Electromagnetic Clutches

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional position sensors for new energy vehicles are bulky, require specific environmental conditions, and need dedicated connectors, which limits their spatial integration and flexibility in compact power systems.

Innovation Solution

A high-precision, compact inductive position sensor with a magnetic circuit formed by a movable magnetic conductor and an induction coil assembly, allowing for accurate position detection based on the relationship between input and feedback currents, and integrating with other interfaces to eliminate the need for specific connectors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional position sensors are used, then position detection function is achieved, but volume is large and spatial structure is affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition detection accuracyVSAvoidsensor volume
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the position sensor with the electromagnetic clutch assembly, integrating the sensor into the existing structure. The sensor detects position of the movable iron core within the clutch assembly, eliminating the need for separate external sensors and reducing overall system volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The electromagnetic clutch assembly serves multiple functions: it provides electromagnetic actuation for clutch engagement/disengagement and simultaneously houses the position sensor for detecting the movable iron core position. This multi-functional design reduces the number of separate components needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If conventional position sensors are used, then position detection is achieved, but specific connectors and layout space are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition detection accuracyVSAvoidconnector and layout requirements
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor is integrated directly into the electromagnetic clutch assembly structure, with the coil assembly serving as both the actuator and the sensor housing. This eliminates the need for separate connectors and reduces layout space requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The sensor system is segmented into functional components within the clutch assembly: the coil assembly for electromagnetic actuation, the movable iron core for position indication, and the detection circuitry integrated into the assembly. This segmentation allows each component to perform its function without requiring external connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Measurement precision

If conventional position sensors are used, then position detection is achieved, but environmental requirements are high

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition detection accuracyVSAvoidenvironmental adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses the existing magnetic field environment of the electromagnetic clutch assembly for position detection. The movable iron core's position is detected through its effect on the magnetic circuit, converting the magnetic field (which could be considered interference) into the detection mechanism. This eliminates the need for shielded environments or special environmental conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

Solution Approach 2:

The electromagnetic clutch assembly itself provides the detection field and detection target. The coil assembly generates the magnetic field, the movable iron core responds to position changes, and the integrated circuitry detects the position. The system uses its own components for detection, eliminating external environmental dependencies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 inductive position sensor provides accurate position detection with strong anti-magnetic interference capabilities, flexible structural design, and reduced spatial requirements, making it suitable for a wide range of environments and applications in new energy vehicles.

Implementation Method 1

an induction coil assembly adjacent to the movable part, wherein the induction coil assembly and the movable part form a magnetic circuit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

the induction coil assembly and the movable part form a magnetic circuit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentEP4538648A1Inductive position sensor and electromagnetic clutch
Publication Date: 2025.04.16 JING JIN ELECTRIC TECH CO LTD
  • EP4538648A1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4538648A1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4538648A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An inductive position sensor, comprising: a movable part (1) which is a magnetic conductor; and an induction coil assembly (100) adjacent to the movable part (1), wherein the induction coil assembly (100) and the movable part (1) form a magnetic circuit, the induction coil assembly (100) has an input end for inputting a current and an output end for outputting a feedback current; the inductive position sensor is used to detect a position of the movable part (1) based on a relationship between the feedback current and the input current. The inductive position sensor of the present disclosure has flexible and compact structural design, and can be adjusted and arranged according to different applications and structural spaces, so it is applicable to a wide range of environments. An electromagnetic clutch is also proposed.