Magnetic Position Sensor Using Reluctance Modulation for Shaft Angle Accuracy

The patent replaces the mechanical magnet-based sensing system with an inductive sensing system. Instead of using polarized magnets on the rotor, the invention uses an inductive target with conductive patterns that interact with an inductive sensor. This substitution eliminates the polarization accuracy problem inherent in magnetic systems while maintaining the ability to detect rotational position and displacement through inductive coupling between the sensor and target patterns.

The patent introduces an inductive target as an intermediary element between the inductive sensor and the rotating shaft. This target contains conductive patterns that modulate the inductive field in response to rotational position, allowing the sensor to indirectly measure position through the target's electromagnetic response rather than directly sensing magnetic field variations from polarized magnets.

The patent merges the target structure with the rotating shaft or rotor assembly, integrating the inductive target patterns directly onto existing rotational components. This integration approach reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies assembly while maintaining the inductive sensing functionality. The target patterns are formed as conductive traces or layers that become part of the rotating assembly rather than separate attachments.

The inductive target serves multiple functions: it acts as the sensing element that modulates the inductive field, provides structural support as part of the rotor assembly, and can be integrated with other rotational components. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated separate components, thereby simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining reliability and environmental immunity.