Position Sensor Error Detection Using Predicted Signal Periods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current position sensor systems, particularly in safety-critical applications, face challenges in accurately detecting errors due to the limitations of existing methods which rely on complex circuits and high-precision reference encoders, leading to inaccuracies and high costs, making them unsuitable for integration in Sensor Integrated Circuits (ICs).
Innovation Solution
A method that determines the period length of previous signal periods to predict the next signal period based on constant velocity, acceleration, or jerk, allowing for error detection by comparing predicted and actual positions, which can be implemented on-chip without requiring complex calculations or large analog blocks, enabling stand-alone operation and reduced costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex circuits and high-precision reference encoders are used for error detection, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual reference encoder through software-based prediction algorithms that generate expected position values based on previous measurements and motion models. This virtual copy replaces the need for physical high-precision reference encoders, achieving accurate error detection without the associated complexity and cost
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes mechanical reference encoders with a software-based prediction system that uses arithmetic operations and motion modeling. The error detection function is transferred from hardware comparison to software calculation, eliminating complex mechanical components while maintaining detection accuracy
2Measurement precision
If high-precision reference encoders are used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manufacturing and integrating physical reference encoders, the patent creates a virtual reference through software prediction algorithms. This virtual copy can be implemented directly in the control unit's firmware, making the system easy to manufacture and integrate without additional hardware components
Solution Approach 2:
The prediction algorithm serves multiple functions: it generates expected position values for error detection, compensates for systematic errors, and adapts to different motion profiles. This multi-functional software solution replaces multiple specialized hardware components, simplifying manufacturing and integration
3Measurement precision
If complex demodulator and signal processing circuits are used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex analog signal processing circuits with digital signal processing algorithms implemented in software. The demodulation and error detection functions are performed through programmed operations rather than hardware circuits, simplifying system operation and reducing the skill level required for maintenance
4Measurement precision
If large reference encoders are used in laboratory environments, then measurement precision is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual reference encoder that can be deployed in any system with a position sensor and microcontroller, regardless of size or application. This software-based copy eliminates the need for large laboratory reference encoders and enables error detection in compact, cost-sensitive, and diverse applications
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses configurable motion parameters (velocity, acceleration, jerk) that can be adjusted to match different application requirements. This flexibility allows the same virtual reference encoder implementation to adapt to various systems without requiring physical reconfiguration, enhancing versatility and integration flexibility
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
This approach improves the accuracy of sensor error calculation, detects and corrects errors effectively, and can be used in rotational movement with high dynamic velocity changes, providing reliable results by predicting positions based on previous period lengths and comparing them with actual positions, thus enhancing the precision of position sensor systems.
Implementation Method 1
an oscillator that generates a radio-frequency signal, which is applied to the transmitter coil to create a static high frequency magnetic field. This static high frequency magnetic field is picked up by the receiver coils
Implementation Method 2
utilizing the physical principles of eddy currents or inductive coupling to detect the position of a target that is moving above a set of coils
Data Source
AI summary
A method and position sensor system for detecting an error of a position sensor system are provided. The method and position sensor system implementing the steps of: determining the period length of three previous signal periods of the position signal, comparing the period lengths of the three previous signal periods of the position signal to detect a constant velocity position signal, a constant accelerating or decelerating position signal or position signal with a constant jerk, predicting the period length of the next signal period of the position signal, transferring the predicted period length of the next signal period to a predicted position signal for the next signal period, and comparing the predicted position signal with the actual position signal to detect errors in the position signal of the next signal period.