Inductive Proximity Sensor Target Assembly for Slat Skew Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional inductive proximity sensors have low signal-to-noise ratios and are inadequate for detecting the presence or absence of ferromagnetic materials effectively, particularly in applications like aircraft skew sensors.
Innovation Solution
The use of a target assembly with alternating ferromagnetic and diamagnetic materials, along with an air gap, to enhance inductance differences and improve signal-to-noise ratio, combined with a logic module to determine slat skew.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional inductive proximity sensors use only ferromagnetic material detection, then the system structure is simple, but the signal-to-noise ratio is low and detection accuracy is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The target assembly is segmented into multiple distinct target materials (ferromagnetic material and diamagnetic material) arranged in different patterns. This segmentation allows the sensor to detect different inductance changes corresponding to different material types, thereby improving signal-to-noise ratio and detection accuracy while maintaining a manageable structural complexity through modular target design.
2Measurement precision
If alternating ferromagnetic and diamagnetic materials are used in the target assembly, then inductance differences are enhanced and signal-to-noise ratio improves, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The target assembly utilizes composite material construction by combining ferromagnetic materials (such as nickel or iron) and diamagnetic materials (such as copper or aluminum) in alternating patterns. This composite approach enhances the inductance differences between adjacent targets, improving measurement precision. The manufacturing complexity is managed through standardized material selection and repetitive pattern design, which can be produced using conventional fabrication techniques.
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
Enhances the signal-to-noise ratio and provides accurate detection of slat skew by utilizing the distinct inductance changes between ferromagnetic and diamagnetic materials, enabling robust and reliable proximity sensing.
Implementation Method 1
an inductive proximity sensor positioned relative to the target assembly to sense an inductance of the target assembly
Implementation Method 2
the first material (e.g., solid material) can be a ferromagnetic material
Implementation Method 3
the second material (e.g., solid material) can be a diamagnetic material
Data Source
AI summary
A proximity sensor system can include a target assembly having one or more first targets comprising a first material having first magnetic permeability and one or more second targets comprising a second material having a second magnetic permeability. The system can include an inductive proximity sensor positioned relative to the target assembly to sense an inductance of the target assembly. The inductive proximity sensor and/or the target assembly are configured to move relative to the other.