Magnetic Angle Sensor Using Field Variator for Extended Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic angle sensors face complexity in measuring angles over 360° due to the non-linear relationship between the encoder magnet's approach and the sensor element's magnetic field alteration, requiring complicated processing algorithms or mechanical fabrication.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a field variator, such as a flux conductor component or secondary magnet, to maintain a constant distance between the encoder magnet and sensor element, allowing for a linear relationship between the encoder magnet's rotation and magnetic field alteration, which can be achieved through various mechanical configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the encoder magnet approaches the sensor element to measure angles over 360°, then the measurement range is extended, but the relationship between approach distance and field alteration becomes non-linear, requiring complicated processing algorithms or mechanical fabrication
Solution Approach 1:
A field variator is introduced as an intermediary component between the encoder magnet and the sensor element. This field variator modifies the magnetic field distribution in a controlled manner, enabling a linear relationship between the encoder magnet's rotational position and the magnetic field alteration detected by the sensor element, thereby simplifying the processing algorithm while extending the measurement range beyond 360°
2Measurement precision
If the encoder magnet approaches the sensor element to extend measurement range, then angle measurement over 360° is enabled, but the mechanical fabrication becomes very complex
Solution Approach 1:
The field variator serves as a mediator that simplifies the mechanical structure. Instead of requiring complex mechanical arrangements to achieve linear field alteration, the field variator is positioned between the encoder magnet and sensor element to provide the necessary field modulation, significantly reducing mechanical fabrication complexity while enabling extended angle measurement
3Device complexity
If a field variator is introduced to simplify construction, then device complexity is reduced, but additional components are added to the system
Solution Approach 1:
The field variator is designed to perform multiple functions: it modifies the magnetic field to enable linear relationship for simplified processing, maintains constant distance between encoder magnet and sensor element, and supports angle measurement over multiple rotations. This multi-functionality justifies the addition of the component by eliminating the need for complex algorithms and mechanical structures
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 solution simplifies the construction and processing of magnetic angle sensors, enabling accurate measurement of angles over multiple rotations with reduced mechanical complexity and maintaining a constant distance between the encoder magnet and sensor element.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor element measures the magnetic field or its change in the form of magnetic induction or in the form of magnetic flux, which correlates with the magnetic field strength H
Implementation Method 2
the variator is comprised of a flux conductor component, e.g. made of soft iron, which, contrary to the material of a permanent magnet, can be machined in a simple and highly precise manner
Data Source
AI summary
In order to be able to measure over more than 360° with a magnetic angle sensor, it is proposed not to adjust the distance between the encoder magnet and the sensor element in addition to the rotation, e.g. by means of a thread, like in the prior art, but to maintain said distance constant, but instead to adjust a magnetic variator with respect to its axial distance from the sensor element, or also in transversal direction, which variator can be a flux conductor or also a secondary magnet.