Magnetic Field Sensor With Adjustable Threshold Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional magnetic switches have a fixed threshold voltage that cannot be adjusted externally, limiting their adaptability to varying magnetic field conditions.

Innovation Solution

A magnetic field sensor with a comparator and a threshold control node that receives a control signal from outside, allowing for an adjustable threshold voltage to be generated, enabling the output signal to change state based on different magnetic field levels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed threshold voltage is used in conventional magnetic switches, then the device structure is simple, but the adaptability to varying magnetic field conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to varying magnetic field conditionsVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed threshold voltage into an adjustable one. A control node is introduced that accepts an external control signal, allowing the threshold voltage to be dynamically adjusted according to different magnetic field conditions. This enables the magnetic switch to adapt to varying operational requirements while maintaining a relatively simple device structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If an adjustable threshold voltage is implemented, then the adaptability to varying magnetic field conditions is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustable threshold voltageVSAvoiddevice structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the universality principle by designing a control node that can accept different control signals to generate different threshold voltages. This single control node structure provides multiple functions by enabling the magnetic switch to operate at different threshold levels depending on the applied control signal, thereby achieving adaptability without proportionally increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

Enables dynamic adjustment of the threshold voltage, enhancing the sensor's responsiveness to varying magnetic fields and improving its operational flexibility.

Implementation Method 1

the magnetic field is detected by a magnetic field sensing element, such as a Hall element or a magnetoresistance element, which provides a signal (i.e., a magnetic field signal) proportional to a detected magnetic field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHall effect: Hall Effect

Implementation Method 2

the magnetic field is detected by a magnetic field sensing element, such as a Hall element or a magnetoresistance element, which provides a signal (i.e., a magnetic field signal) proportional to a detected magnetic field

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetoresistance effect: Magnetoresistance

Implementation Method 3

a comparator having a first input node coupled to receive a first signal representative of the magnetic field sensing element output signal, a second input node coupled to receive a second signal representative of the adjustable threshold signal, and an output node at which is generated an output signal responsive to the first and second signals

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectComparator operation:

Data Source

PatentUS8957676B2Magnetic field sensor having a control node to receive a control signal to adjust a threshold
Publication Date: 2015.02.17 ALLEGRO MICROSYSTEMS LLC
  • US8957676B2 patent drawing
  • US8957676B2 patent drawing
  • US8957676B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An integrated magnetic field sensor includes a magnetic field sensing element configured to generate a magnetic field sensing element output signal in response to a magnetic field. The integrated magnetic field sensor also includes a threshold control node configured to receive a control signal from outside of the integrated magnetic field sensor, wherein the integrated magnetic field sensor is configured to provide an adjustable threshold signal in response to the control signal. The integrated magnetic field sensor also includes a comparator having a first input node coupled to receive a first signal representative of the magnetic field sensing element output signal, a second input node coupled to receive a second signal representative of the adjustable threshold signal, and an output node at which is generated an output signal responsive to the first and second signals.