3D Magnetic Field Imaging with Planar Sensor Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnetic field sensing technologies are limited in their ability to image very low frequency magnetic fields, particularly in security and industrial applications, as they can only detect the perpendicular component of the electric field, restricting their usefulness.
Innovation Solution
A planar magnetic field imaging array comprising pixels with a planar spiral inductor and orthogonally placed Hall effect sensors, capable of measuring all three components of a magnetic field, enabling true three-dimensional imaging by combining measurements from the inductor and Hall effect sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional magnetic field sensing technologies are used, then the system can detect magnetic fields, but it can only detect the perpendicular component of the electric field, limiting imaging capability to two dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional imaging (detecting only perpendicular component) to three-dimensional imaging by incorporating sensors that detect all three components of the magnetic field. The pixel array includes planar spiral inductors for one component and Hall effect sensors oriented in multiple directions for the other components, enabling full 3D spatial mapping of magnetic fields.
Solution Approach 2:
Each pixel in the array is designed to perform multiple sensing functions simultaneously. The planar spiral inductor detects one component of the magnetic field, while orthogonally placed Hall effect sensors detect the other two components. This multi-functional pixel design allows the system to capture complete three-dimensional magnetic field information from a single pixel location.
2Measurement precision
If a planar array with multiple sensors per pixel is used to achieve three-dimensional imaging, then measurement capability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing elements (planar spiral inductor and orthogonally placed Hall effect sensors) into a single integrated pixel structure. This merging of sensors within each pixel allows for compact three-dimensional imaging capability while maintaining a relatively simple overall array architecture that can be scaled.
3Speed
If existing sensing technologies are used, then the system operates at certain frequencies, but it cannot effectively image very low frequency magnetic fields
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs planar spiral inductors specifically designed for very low frequency operation. These inductors, combined with Hall effect sensors, create a sensing system optimized for very low frequency magnetic field detection, extending the operational range down to frequencies where conventional sensors become ineffective.
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
The system effectively images three-dimensional magnetic fields with average errors on the order of 10−2 mT, demonstrating improved accuracy and scalability for various applications, including security and industrial uses.
Implementation Method 1
an inductor configured to measure a magnetic field component perpendicular to the planar array
Implementation Method 2
two Hall effect sensors orthogonally placed on the planar array, each Hall effect sensor configured to measure a magnetic field component parallel to the planar array
Data Source
AI summary
A planar sensor array capable of three-dimensional magnetic field sensing is disclosed. The sensor array may be utilized, for example, in connection with security inspections and detection of concealed electronics and contraband. Each sensor pixel may comprise a planar spiral inductor to measure a magnetic field of interest in a first dimension, a first Hall effect sensor to measure the magnetic field of interest in a second dimension, and a second Hall effect sensor to measure the magnetic field of interest in the third dimension.