Magnetic Sensor Position Detection Variable Field Units

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing magnetic position detection devices using magnetoresistive elements face challenges in enhancing detection accuracy due to limitations in the variable range of the composite vector angle, particularly in accurately detecting the direction of the detection-target magnetic field.

Innovation Solution

A position detection device is designed with a first and second magnetic field generation unit, where the second magnetic field generation unit's position relative to the first is variable, allowing the magnetic sensor to generate a detection signal corresponding to the direction of the detection-target magnetic field within a variable range, enhancing detection accuracy by adjusting the relative positions of the magnetic field components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a magnetoresistive element is used to detect the composite vector angle for position detection, then the position detection function is achieved, but the detection accuracy is limited due to the restricted variable range of the composite vector angle

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidvariable range of composite vector angle
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the magnetization direction of the pinned layer adjustable rather than fixed. By controlling the magnetization direction dynamically, the system can adapt the detection characteristics to match different variable ranges of the composite vector angle, thereby improving detection accuracy across different operating conditions without being limited by a fixed detection range

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the magnetization direction parameter of the pinned layer to optimize detection accuracy. By adjusting this parameter to align with or be orthogonal to the variable range of the composite vector angle, the system enhances its ability to detect position changes accurately within the specific application range, resolving the contradiction between detection accuracy and adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If the magnetization direction of the pinned layer is fixed, then the device structure is simplified, but the detection accuracy cannot be optimized for different variable ranges of the composite vector angle

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidcontrol of magnetization direction
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by pre-setting or pre-aligning the magnetization direction of the pinned layer during device fabrication or initialization. This preliminary configuration optimizes the detection accuracy for the expected variable range of the composite vector angle without requiring complex real-time control mechanisms, thus balancing detection accuracy with device simplicity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes parameter changes during the manufacturing or initialization phase to set the magnetization direction of the pinned layer. By changing this parameter during fabrication rather than during operation, the system achieves optimized detection accuracy without adding operational complexity, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 enables high-accuracy position detection by varying the second magnetic field component's strength and direction, allowing the magnetic sensor to accurately detect the direction of the detection-target magnetic field, even within a range of 180°, thereby improving the overall detection precision.

Implementation Method 1

a magnetoresistive element... an area in which the resistance value of the magnetoresistive element varies linearly or substantially linearly with respect to changes in the applied magnetic field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetoresistance: Magnetoresistance

Implementation Method 2

a first magnetic field generation unit for generating a first magnetic field, a second magnetic field generation unit for generating a second magnetic field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field generation: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS11204263B2Position detection device for detecting position of an object moving in a predetermined direction, and a magnetic sensor for use with the position detection device
Publication Date: 2021.12.21 TDK CORP
  • US11204263B2 patent drawing
  • US11204263B2 patent drawing
  • US11204263B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A position detection device includes a first magnetic field generation unit for generating a first magnetic field, a second magnetic field generation unit for generating a second magnetic field, and a magnetic sensor. The position of the second magnetic field generation unit relative to the first magnetic field generation unit is variable. The magnetic sensor detects the direction of a target magnetic field at a detection position in a reference plane. The target magnetic field is a composite magnetic field of first and second magnetic field components which are respective components of the first and second magnetic fields parallel to the reference plane. The magnetic sensor includes a magnetoresistive element including a free layer and a magnetization pinned layer. In the reference plane, two directions orthogonal to the magnetization direction of the magnetization pinned layer are each different from both of directions of the first and second magnetic field components.