Position Sensor Single Magnet Multi-Region Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing position sensors for vehicle transmission mode selector levers require multiple components, including shift and selection magnets, making them large and complex.
Innovation Solution
A position sensor using a single magnet with multiple magnetic flux detection elements and a determination circuit that differentiates operation positions based on proportional changes in detection signal output levels, eliminating the need for multiple magnets by utilizing distinct magnetized regions and detection element arrangements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple magnets (shift magnet and selection magnet) are used to detect different operation directions, then the position sensor can detect both shifting direction and selection direction, but the sensor includes many components and becomes relatively large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple magnetized regions (first magnetized region for shifting direction detection, second magnetized region for selection direction detection) into a single magnet component. This merging eliminates the need for separate shift magnet and selection magnet, thereby reducing the number of components while maintaining the ability to detect both operation directions through the different magnetized regions
Solution Approach 2:
The single magnet is designed with multiple magnetized regions that serve different detection functions. The first magnetized region detects shifting direction while the second magnetized region detects selection direction, making the single magnet component multi-functional and capable of replacing multiple separate magnets
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple magnets are used to detect different operation directions, then comprehensive position detection is achieved, but the sensor size increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple magnetized regions into a single magnet component, the overall sensor volume is reduced compared to using multiple separate magnets. The integrated structure allows comprehensive position detection within a more compact form factor
3Measurement precision
If three or more magnetic flux detection elements are arranged opposing the magnet, then multiple operation positions can be detected, but the arrangement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic flux detection elements are strategically positioned at specific locations opposing different magnetized regions of the magnet. Each detection element is placed to optimally detect the magnetic flux from its corresponding magnetized region, creating localized detection zones that simplify the overall arrangement while maintaining high measurement precision
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 solution allows for precise detection of multiple operation positions with fewer components, reducing sensor size and complexity while maintaining accurate position determination.
Implementation Method 1
three or more magnetic flux detection elements that detect magnetic flux of the magnet
Data Source
Figure 1~2C
Figure 3A~3B
Figure 4A~4C
AI summary
A position sensor (1) for a transmission mode selector lever (50) includes a magnet (10) and three magnetic flux detection elements (21, 22, 23) that detect magnetic flux of the magnet. A determination circuit (30) determines an operation position of the transmission mode selector lever based on output levels of detection signals generated by the magnetic flux detection elements. The magnet includes first and second magnetized regions (10A, 10B). The first and second magnetized regions are formed so that when the magnet is moved relative to the magnetic flux detection elements along a straight line, output levels of the detection signals generated by the magnetic flux detection elements change in accordance with a proportional relationship having a first or second gradient relative to the distance of the movement. The three detection elements are spaced apart from each other on a straight line that is parallel to the first and second straight lines.