Magnetic Sensor Bridge Configuration for Weak Field Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetic sensors face challenges in enhancing sensitivity, particularly in detecting weak magnetic fields, due to limitations in the design and configuration of magnetic elements and conductive members, which affect the accuracy and reliability of magnetic field detection.
Innovation Solution
The magnetic sensor incorporates a specific configuration of magnetic elements and conductive members, including a bridge connection of magnetic elements and alternating current components, to enhance sensitivity by applying current magnetic fields in phased opposition, thereby suppressing noise and improving detection accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional magnetic sensor design is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but sensitivity is insufficient for detecting weak magnetic fields
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic sensor divides the magnetic element into multiple segments (first magnetic element 11E, second magnetic element 12E, third magnetic element 13E, fourth magnetic element 14E) arranged in a bridge configuration. Each segment responds to magnetic fields in specific directions, and their combined output enhances sensitivity while maintaining a manageable structural complexity through systematic arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces spatial dimensionality by arranging magnetic elements and conductive members in three-dimensional space with specific orientations. The magnetic elements are positioned at different locations and angles to detect magnetic fields from multiple directions simultaneously, transforming a single-dimensional detection into multi-dimensional detection to achieve higher sensitivity.
2Measurement precision
If magnetic elements are arranged to detect weak magnetic fields, then sensitivity increases, but noise suppression becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by configuring the bridge circuit with magnetic elements oriented in specific directions (e.g., first and third magnetic elements detecting magnetic fields in one direction, second and fourth detecting in opposite direction). This preliminary arrangement creates opposing signals that naturally cancel out noise components before measurement, allowing sensitive detection of weak magnetic fields while suppressing interference.
3Measurement precision
If conductive members are positioned to apply current magnetic fields, then detection capability improves, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive members (first conductive member 21, second conductive member 22) are designed to serve multiple functions: they supply current to the magnetic elements, generate auxiliary magnetic fields for enhancement, and are positioned to interact with the magnetic elements in phased opposition. This multi-functionality improves detection capability while avoiding the need for separate components, thereby controlling structural complexity.
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 configuration allows for higher sensitivity in detecting magnetic fields, with the ability to detect magnetic fields as low as 100 pT, and effectively suppresses noise, enabling more accurate and reliable magnetic field detection.
Implementation Method 1
The magnetic element part includes a first magnetic element, a second magnetic element, a third magnetic element, and a fourth magnetic element... The sensor part detects changes in electrical resistance in response to applied magnetic fields
Implementation Method 2
The first circuit is configured to supply a first current between the third conductive portion and the sixth conductive portion. The first current includes an alternating current component
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a magnetic sensor includes a sensor part, a first circuit, and a second circuit. The sensor part includes a magnetic element part, first and second conductive members. The magnetic element part includes first to fourth magnetic elements. The first conductive member includes first to third conductive portions, and first and second middle portions. The second conductive member includes fourth to sixth conductive portions, and third and fourth middle portions. The first circuit is electrically connected to the third and sixth conductive portions. The first circuit is configured to supply a first current between the third and sixth conductive portions. The second circuit is electrically connected to a first connection point and a second connection point. The second circuit is electrically connected to first and second connection points. The second circuit is configured to supply a second current between the first and second connection points.