Magnetic Sensor Device Asymmetric Field Generator Arrangement

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing magnetic sensor devices face difficulties in detecting magnetic patterns on detection objects due to weak magnetic fields applied in the transport direction, resulting in small output from magnetoresistive elements.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic sensor device is designed with first and second magnetic field generators positioned differently to apply a larger magnetic field in the transport direction, using first and second magnetoresistive elements with resistors arranged to enhance the detection of magnetic flux density changes, allowing for efficient detection of magnetic patterns.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If magnetic field generators are arranged facing each other across the transport path with perpendicular bias fields, then contactless transport capability is achieved, but the magnetic field strength in the transport direction becomes weak

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemagnetic field strength in transport directionVSAvoidmagnetic field generator arrangement
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies asymmetry by arranging the first and second magnetic field generators at different positions in the transport direction, rather than symmetrically facing each other. The first magnetic field generator is positioned upstream and the second downstream, creating an asymmetric configuration that generates a stronger magnetic field component in the transport direction, thereby resolving the contradiction between magnetic field strength and device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the spatial arrangement from a two-dimensional facing configuration to a three-dimensional asymmetric arrangement where generators are positioned at different locations in the transport direction. This dimensional change allows the magnetic fields to combine constructively in the transport direction, increasing field strength without requiring complex multi-generator configurations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Measurement precision

If magnetoresistive elements detect magnetic field changes in the transport direction, then detection capability is provided, but the output signal becomes small due to weak magnetic fields

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemagnetic pattern detection accuracyVSAvoidoutput signal strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-positioning the magnetoresistive elements at specific locations where the asymmetric magnetic field generators create optimal field conditions. The elements are placed in regions where the magnetic field gradient in the transport direction is maximized, ensuring strong output signals before detection begins, thereby preventing signal loss

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 arrangement of magnetic field generators and magnetoresistive elements enables the application of a larger magnetic field in the transport direction, effectively enhancing the detection of magnetic patterns on detection objects.

Implementation Method 1

a first magnetoresistive element disposed between the first magnetic field generator and the transport path to output, as a change in resistance, a change in magnetic flux density

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetoresistance: Magnetoresistance

Implementation Method 2

a second magnetic field generator disposed at opposite side to the first magnetic field generator with respect to the transport path to generate a magnetic field intersecting the detection object

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field generation: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS11639974B1Magnetic sensor device
Publication Date: 2023.05.02 MITSUBISHI ELECTRIC CORP
  • US11639974B1 patent drawing
  • US11639974B1 patent drawing
  • US11639974B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A first magnetic field generator generates a magnetic field intersecting a detection object being transported along a transport path. A second magnetic field generator opposite to the first magnetic field generator with respect to the transport path generates a magnetic field intersecting the detection object. A first magnetoresistive element between the first magnetic field generator and the transport path outputs, as a change in resistance, a change in magnetic flux density produced by transport of the detection object. The first and second magnetic field generators are different in a magnetic pole facing the transport path and are arranged with a center of the first magnetic field generator in a transport direction of the detection object and a center of the second magnetic field generator in the transport direction are located at mutually different positions. The first magnetoresistive element includes a first resistor and a second resistor arranged with spacing therebetween.