Magnetic Switch Layout for Unambiguous Axial and Radial Field Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for detecting radial magnetic fields using magnetic switch components result in ambiguous output signals, necessitating the use of more expensive 3D magnetic sensors, which are costly and unnecessary for detecting both axial and radial magnetic fields.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising at least two magnetic switch components arranged adjacent to each other along an axis, with an evaluation circuit combining their signals using an OR operation to resolve ambiguity and produce a continuous output signal, allowing detection of magnetic fields independently of their orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If magnetic switch components are used to detect radial magnetic fields, then detection capability is achieved, but output signal ambiguity occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into multiple magnetic switch components (at least two) arranged at different positions along the axis. Each component detects magnetic fields from different orientations, and their combined output resolves the ambiguity that would occur with a single component detecting radial fields alone.
2Reliability
If 3D magnetic sensors are used to detect radial magnetic fields, then signal ambiguity is resolved, but device cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple simple magnetic switch components are combined along the axis with their signals processed together through logical operations (AND, OR, XOR). This merging approach achieves the same reliability as expensive 3D sensors by combining multiple inexpensive components, making the system cost-effective while maintaining signal clarity.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic switch components are designed to perform multiple functions: detecting both axial and radial magnetic field components, and providing unambiguous position information. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for specialized expensive sensors while achieving the same detection capabilities.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple magnetic switch components are arranged along the axis, then radial magnetic field detection becomes possible, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solution transitions from detecting only axial fields (one dimension) to detecting both axial and radial fields (multiple dimensions) by arranging magnetic switch components at different positions along the axis. This spatial arrangement in another dimension enables comprehensive field detection while maintaining simple component design.
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 precise detection of magnetic fields using cost-effective magnetic switch components, eliminating the need for expensive 3D Hall effect sensors and allowing detection of piston positions in pneumatic cylinders regardless of magnet orientation.
Implementation Method 1
magnetic switch components arranged adjacent to one another along the axis... combining the signals of the magnetic switch components to form an output signal
Data Source
AI summary
A device for detecting axial and/or radial magnetic fields acting relative to an axis (A) is characterised by at least two magnetic switch components (530, 531) arranged adjacent to one another along the axis (A) and an evaluation circuit for combining the signals of the magnetic switch components (530, 531) to form an output signal representing a switch-on and switch-off process.