3D Magnetic Sensor Chip for Unambiguous Position Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing angle measurement systems face limitations in accurately determining complex movement sequences and achieving high resolution, particularly in systems that require both rotary and translational movements, due to ambiguities caused by the magnetic field vector's path in three-dimensional space.
Innovation Solution
A measuring system with a magnetic field sensor arrangement integrated into a semiconductor chip, featuring three magnetic field sensors for measuring components of the magnetic field vector in different spatial directions, and an evaluation circuit that determines the encoder's position based on measurement signals from these sensors, with the magnetic field vector describing a closed, non-intersecting line in all three directions, allowing for modulation of the vector's length and frequency to accommodate complex movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a magnetic field sensor arrangement with three sensors integrated in a semiconductor chip is used to measure magnetic field vector components in three spatial directions, then measurement precision and resolution are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Three magnetic field sensors are integrated into a single semiconductor chip to form a compact sensor arrangement. This merging of multiple sensing elements into one integrated device enables simultaneous measurement of three magnetic field vector components (Bx, By, Bz) while reducing the physical footprint and simplifying the overall system structure compared to using separate discrete sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The semiconductor chip-based sensor arrangement serves multiple functions: it simultaneously measures all three components of the magnetic field vector, determines both rotary and translational movements, and provides high-resolution position information. This multi-functionality is achieved through the integrated three-axis sensor design that can detect complex movement sequences in a single device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the magnetic field vector is modulated to describe a closed non-intersecting line in three-dimensional space, then the ability to record complex movement sequences is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic field vector modulation utilizes three-dimensional space by varying the magnetic field in three orthogonal directions (Bx, By, Bz). The encoder modulates the magnetic field vector to trace a closed non-intersecting line (such as a helix or sphere) in this 3D space, where each point on the trajectory corresponds to a unique position. This dimensional approach allows unambiguous encoding of complex movement sequences including both rotary and translational components.
Solution Approach 2:
The encoder changes multiple parameters of the magnetic field vector simultaneously, including its direction (orientation in 3D space) and magnitude (length). By modulating these parameters to create a closed non-intersecting trajectory, the system can distinguish between different positions and movement types. The evaluation circuit analyzes changes in these parameters to determine precise position and movement sequence information.
3Manufacturing precision
If three magnetic field sensors are integrated in a semiconductor chip for measuring magnetic field vector components, then manufacturing precision is improved, but the ease of manufacture decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical sensor assemblies with a semiconductor-based integrated circuit solution. Instead of mechanically mounting three separate magnetic field sensors, the invention fabricates all three sensors on a single semiconductor chip using standard semiconductor manufacturing processes. This substitution enables precise alignment and integration of the three sensors while leveraging the scalability and precision of semiconductor fabrication techniques.
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 enables clear assignment of the encoder's position with high resolution and the ability to record complex movement sequences, avoiding ambiguities by ensuring the magnetic field vector traces a unique path, thus enhancing the system's accuracy and flexibility.
Implementation Method 1
The magnetic field sensor arrangement (10) has a first magnetic field sensor (11) integrated in a semiconductor chip for measuring a first component (Bx) of a magnetic field vector (B) formed in a first spatial direction (x), a second magnetic field sensor (12) integrated in the semiconductor chip for measuring a second component (Bz) of the magnetic field vector (B) formed in a second spatial direction (z), and a third magnetic field sensor (13) integrated in the semiconductor chip for measuring a third component (By) of the magnetic field vector (B) formed in a third spatial direction (y)
Data Source
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AI summary
Measuring system (1), comprising a magnetic field sensor arrangement (10) comprising a first magnetic field sensor (11) integrated in a semiconductor chip for measuring a first component (Bx) of a magnetic field vector (B) in a first spatial direction (x) and a second magnetic field sensor (12) integrated in the semiconductor chip for measuring a second component (Bz) of the magnetic field vector (B) in a second spatial direction (z) and a third magnetic field sensor (13) integrated in the semiconductor chip for measuring a third component (By) of the magnetic field vector (B) in a third spatial direction (y), comprising a sensor (20) configured to change the magnetic field vector (B) in the first spatial direction (x) and in the second spatial direction (z) and in the third spatial direction (y) depending on its rotational and/or translational movement,wherein the change in the magnetic field vector (B) caused by the movement of the encoder (20) describes a closed and non-intersecting line in all three spatial directions (x, y, z), and with an evaluation circuit (30) to which the first magnetic field sensor (11), the second magnetic field sensor (12), and the third magnetic field sensor (13) are connected, wherein the evaluation circuit (30) is configured to determine the position of the encoder (30) based on a first measurement signal (Sx) from the first magnetic field sensor (11), a second measurement signal (Sz) from the second magnetic field sensor (12), and a third measurement signal (Sy) from the third magnetic field sensor (13).