Magnetic Sensor Dynamic Calibration Mode Switching

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Magnetic field sensors in vehicles become sensitive to non-engine-related movements, leading to false engine management warnings due to their increased power-up before engine start, causing unnecessary distress and operational issues.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic sensor system that can switch between 'slow' and 'fast' calibration modes based on detected motion types, using directional information to select appropriate calibration modes and reduce false triggering during loading/unloading activities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If the magnetic field sensor is powered up before engine start (upon door opening), then the sensor achieves operational state early, but the sensor becomes sensitive to non-engine movements causing false warnings

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetime to achieve operational stateVSAvoidfalse warning rate
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic calibration mode selection that adapts to current motion conditions. The sensor switches between fast calibration mode (when stationary or minimal motion detected) and slow calibration mode (when vehicle motion or loading detected), allowing early operational readiness while preventing false warnings through context-appropriate calibration behavior

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters by selecting different calibration modes based on detected motion types. The calibration mode parameter is adjusted dynamically - using fast calibration for stationary conditions and slow calibration for moving conditions - thereby optimizing both response time and reliability according to current operational context

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If sophisticated algorithms are implemented in the magnetic field sensor, then the accuracy of rotational position determination is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverotational position accuracyVSAvoidalgorithm complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic algorithm selection through multiple calibration modes. Instead of using a single complex algorithm always, the system dynamically selects between fast calibration algorithm (simpler, faster) and slow calibration algorithm (more sophisticated, more accurate) based on motion detection, thereby achieving high accuracy when needed while reducing complexity during routine operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The calibration process is segmented into different modes (fast and slow calibration) that can be selected based on operational conditions. This segmentation allows the system to use appropriate levels of algorithmic complexity for different scenarios, avoiding unnecessary computational overhead while maintaining measurement precision when required

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 accuracy and reliability of rotational position determination, preventing false engine warnings by quickly adapting calibration modes to vehicle conditions, thus improving sensor performance and reducing unnecessary alerts.

Implementation Method 1

magnetic field sensor used to determine a current state of the crankshaft

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field detection: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS9677911B2Magnetic field sensor and method of operation thereof with a determination of offset values selectable during operation of the sensor
Publication Date: 2017.06.13 INFINEON TECHNOLOGIES AG
  • US9677911B2 patent drawing
  • US9677911B2 patent drawing
  • US9677911B2 patent drawing

AI summary

At least one embodiment relates to magnetic field sensors being operable at different calibration modes, wherein the magnetic sensor is capable of switching between the different calibration modes during normal operation of the sensor. The switching may be possible in response to different motion types detected within the sensor. Such sensors may be used in vehicles such as cars, the sensors for example being part of the engine control system or the ABS. Another embodiment relates to a method of changing calibration modes during operation of sensors.