Inductive Position Sensor Alternating Burst Mode
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inductive position sensors face challenges with high power consumption and increased signal post-processing efforts, particularly in multi-channel systems where adjacent channel interference leads to noise in measured position signals.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an alternating burst mode operation for multi-channel inductive position sensors, where subsystems operate alternately without galvanic connections, utilizing inductive coupling for synchronization and interference suppression, reduces energy consumption and eliminates the need for additional circuit components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multi-channel inductive position sensors operate with continuous transmission in all channels, then measurement coverage is complete, but power consumption increases and adjacent channel interference causes noise in measured position signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements alternating burst mode operation where transmission units in different channels operate periodically and alternately rather than continuously. Each channel transmits in time-synchronized bursts separated by idle periods during which other channels may transmit, reducing overall power consumption while maintaining measurement capability through periodic sampling
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the multi-channel sensor system into separate transmission units that can be independently controlled and activated. This segmentation allows selective activation of only necessary channels at any given time, reducing total power consumption while maintaining measurement coverage through coordinated operation
2Reliability
If all transmission units operate simultaneously in multi-channel systems, then measurement coverage is maximized, but adjacent channel interference leads to noise in measured position signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs time-synchronized alternating operation where transmission units activate in periodic bursts according to a coordinated schedule. This temporal separation eliminates adjacent channel interference by ensuring only one channel transmits at any given moment, while the periodic nature maintains comprehensive measurement coverage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a coordination mechanism where transmission units monitor and respond to the operational state of other channels. This feedback-based synchronization ensures that transmission bursts are properly timed and coordinated, preventing interference while maintaining system-wide measurement coverage
3Reliability
If traditional continuous operation mode is used, then signal strength is maintained, but energy consumption increases and heat generation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from continuous transmission to periodic burst mode operation. During active burst periods, full signal strength is maintained to ensure measurement accuracy. During idle periods between bursts, transmission is suspended to eliminate unnecessary energy consumption and heat generation, achieving superior energy efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of transmission units that adapts their operational state based on system requirements. Transmission units can dynamically switch between active and idle states, adjusting power consumption levels while maintaining signal strength during critical measurement periods
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
This approach enhances the reliability and accuracy of position measurements by minimizing noise and energy usage, while allowing for monolithic integration and reduced space requirements in integrated circuits.
Implementation Method 1
two first transmission units (12, 14) for generating two phase-shifted by essentially 90°, location-dependent first alternating fields with the same first frequency
Implementation Method 2
a first resonant circuit (20), which can be excited by the first total alternating field generated by the first transmitter units and can generate a first resonant circuit alternating field with the first frequency
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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Figure 4
AI summary
In an inductive position sensor for determining the position, particularly the rotation angle of a movable element, at least two subsystems are provided, which each have second transmitting units including an actuating unit, an oscillating circuit on the movable element, and a receiving unit with an evaluation unit. According to the invention, the operation of the individual subsystems is carried out alternately. So if one subsystem is operating, all other subsystems are deactivated. In this way, all subsystems are individually operated in a consecutive manner. The synchronization required to do so is provided by a non-galvanic coupling of the subsystems, and in particular by an inductive coupling by way of preferably existing inductors of the subsystems.