Modular Angle Sensor Assembly for Application-Specific Configurations

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing angle of rotation sensor devices are not easily adaptable for different applications due to limitations in modular assembly systems.

Innovation Solution

A modular assembly system comprising a carrier assembly, rotor assembly, and two printed circuit board assemblies, each with interchangeable configurations, allowing for easy adaptation to various applications by selecting different configurations of these components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a modular assembly system with interchangeable components is implemented, then adaptability for different applications is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability for different applicationsVSAvoidmodular assembly system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The sensor device is divided into distinct modular assemblies (carrier assembly, rotor assembly, first printed circuit board assembly, second printed circuit board assembly) that can be independently configured and combined. Each assembly performs a specific function and can be selectively assembled to meet different application requirements, thereby achieving adaptability without excessive overall complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The carrier assembly serves as a universal base structure that can accommodate different rotor assemblies and printed circuit board assemblies. The standardized interface and mounting structure of the carrier assembly allow it to support multiple configurations for different measuring ranges, sensor technologies, data interfaces, and supply voltages, enabling one component to fulfill multiple functions across different applications.

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

2Ease of operation

If multiple configurations of assemblies are provided for easy adaptation, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of adaptation to different applicationsVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the device into pre-manufactured modular assemblies, each with specific configurations, the manufacturing process for each module can be optimized independently. This allows parallel production of different assembly types, reducing overall manufacturing complexity compared to producing fully customized devices for each application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular assemblies are pre-configured and pre-assembled with specific components (different rotor designs, different circuit board configurations) during manufacturing. This preliminary action of preparing multiple ready-to-use configurations enables easy adaptation during operation without requiring complex on-site manufacturing or customization processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS20250347508A1Angle of Rotation Sensor Device and Modular Assembly System for Manufacturing an Angle of Rotation Sensor Device
Publication Date: 2025.11.13 HELLA GMBH & CO KGAA
  • US20250347508A1 patent drawing
  • US20250347508A1 patent drawing
  • US20250347508A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to an angle of rotation sensor device. The sensor device includes: a carrier assembly with a carrier assembly base body which forms a rotor chamber, a rotor assembly which is arranged rotatably relative to the carrier assembly in the rotor chamber, and first and second circuit board assemblies respectively attached to the carrier assembly. The first circuit board assembly includes a detection apparatus which interacts with the rotatable rotor assembly to detect an angle of rotation. The second circuit board assembly includes a connector contact apparatus, and the carrier assembly includes a connecting apparatus which is attached to the carrier assembly base body and establishes an electrical connection between the first circuit board assembly and the second circuit board assembly. The present invention further relates to a modular assembly system for manufacturing such an angle of rotation sensor device.