Magnetic Field Sensor for Joystick Position Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic field sensors for joysticks lack an effective mechanism to sense the position of magnets with precision, particularly in applications requiring restoration forces and accurate angular measurements.
Innovation Solution
A magnetic assembly comprising a substrate with strategically positioned magnetic field sensing elements and differential circuits that generate signals responsive to magnetic fields, allowing for the detection of magnet movement and restoration forces, enabling precise angular measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If magnetic field sensing elements are used to sense magnet position, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for multiple sensing elements and differential circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor divides the sensing function into four separate magnetic field sensing elements (first, second, third, and fourth elements) with different maximum response axes. Each element senses magnetic field components in specific directions, and their outputs are combined through differential circuits to achieve precise two-dimensional position measurement while managing complexity through functional division
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-axis magnetic field sensing to two-dimensional position sensing by arranging four sensing elements with maximum response axes oriented at different angles (including non-parallel orientations). This dimensional expansion allows simultaneous measurement of magnetic field components in multiple directions, enabling precise magnet position detection in the x-y plane
2Measurement precision
If multiple magnetic field sensing elements with different response axes are used, then angular measurement accuracy is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies particular orientation parameters for the maximum response axes of the sensing elements, including that the first and third elements have parallel opposite axes, the second and fourth elements have parallel opposite axes, and the first and second axes are non-parallel. These parameter specifications enable accurate angular measurement while providing clear manufacturing guidelines to manage alignment precision requirements
3Ease of operation
If magnets provide restoring force in the magnetic assembly, then joystick functionality is improved, but force interaction complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into the magnetic assembly: magnets serve both as the object to be sensed (providing position information) and as the restoring force mechanism (providing mechanical feedback). This merging of sensing target and actuation function simplifies the overall joystick structure while enabling both precise measurement and natural restoration behavior through magnetic attraction between the first and second magnets
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 accurate and reliable sensing of magnet position and angular measurements, ensuring precise control and restoration forces in joystick applications, while being adaptable for other uses.
Implementation Method 1
first, second, third, and fourth magnetic field sensing elements disposed upon the major surface of the substrate and configured to generate first, second, third and fourth respective electronic magnetic field signals, wherein each electronic magnetic field signal is responsive to a respective magnetic field parallel to the major surface of the substrate
Implementation Method 2
an attraction of the second magnet to the first magnet result in a restoring force upon the shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A magnetic field sensor, a magnetic assembly, and a method provide circuits and techniques for or measuring one or more displacement angles of a magnet using magnetic field sensing elements. Applications include, but are not limited to, joysticks.