Magnetic Sensor Circuit Reconfiguration for Error Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic sensor devices often require duplicating hardware for error detection, which is less compact and more costly, and they struggle to measure magnetic fields with high accuracy and signal-to-noise ratio while being robust against positioning errors and external disturbances.
Innovation Solution
A method and device using an integrated circuit with a configurable interconnection circuit to connect and disconnect magnetic sensor elements in parallel or series, allowing for combined and individual signal measurements, and a consistency test to detect errors using an external processor.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hardware duplication is used for error detection, then error detection capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines error detection functionality with the existing magnetic sensor elements by configuring them in different connection modes (series and parallel) rather than duplicating separate detection hardware. The same sensor elements serve both measurement and error detection functions through reconfigurable interconnections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic reconfiguration of sensor element connections between series and parallel modes based on operational requirements. This dynamic switching allows the system to adapt between high-precision measurement mode and error detection mode without requiring separate static hardware for each function.
2Measurement precision
If multiple measurement modes are implemented, then measurement accuracy and error detection are improved, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic switching between series connection mode (for high-precision measurement) and parallel connection mode (for error detection). This periodic reconfiguration allows the system to gather measurement data and error detection data in alternating cycles, ensuring both measurement accuracy and reliability without requiring simultaneous operation of multiple modes.
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
Accurately measures magnetic fields with improved signal-to-noise ratio and detects errors with minimal hardware additions, enabling reliable operation and reduced complexity.
Implementation Method 1
They are based on measuring a magnetic field characteristic at one or multiple sensor locations
Data Source
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AI summary
Method (1000) of magnetic sensing using a sensor circuit with at least two magnetic sensing elements including a first and a second magnetic sensor element, the method comprising: a) measuring in a first configuration a combination of the first and second signal obtained from both sensors; b) measuring in a second configuration an individual signal obtained from the first sensor only; c) outputting the combined signal and the individual signal, or signals derived therefrom by the sensor circuit; d) testing a consistency of the signals by an external processor (ECU) in order to detect an error. A sensor device configured for performing steps a) to c) of this method. A sensor system comprising this sensor device and a second processor connected thereto, the second processor being configured for performing step d).