Self-Testing Sensor With Periodic Magnetic Field
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensors, particularly those using the variable reluctance principle, face challenges in sensing low speeds and require close proximity to the object, which can lead to damage and debris issues, and lack effective self-testing capabilities, especially when installed remotely or when the object is stationary.
Innovation Solution
The integration of self-testing features within Hall-effect and magneto resistive sensors allows for remote operability verification by supplying a periodic magnetic field to simulate object parameters, enabling independent testing of the sensing element and signal conditioning device, even when the object is stationary or absent, using a signal induction device and signal conditioning circuitry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the sensor is placed close to the moving object to sense movement with enough strength, then the sensing capability is improved, but the sensor may be damaged during installation or operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a test magnet as an intermediary object to enable sensing without direct contact with the moving object. The test magnet is placed between the sensor and the moving object, allowing the sensor to detect magnetic field changes caused by the moving object's motion while maintaining a safe air gap that prevents damage during installation and operation.
2Reliability
If the air gap between the sensor and the object is increased to reduce debris and damage risk, then the reliability is improved, but the sensing strength is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a test magnet that replicates the magnetic field characteristics of the moving object. By placing the test magnet in a controlled position, it creates a magnetic field pattern that mimics the moving object's magnetic signature, allowing the sensor to maintain strong sensing capability even with a larger air gap, thus improving reliability without sacrificing measurement precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If VR sensors are used to sense rotation, then the sensing function is provided, but the sensors are unable to sense rotation at low speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the sensor system by introducing a test magnet that creates a stronger and more stable magnetic field. This allows the sensor to detect motion at lower speeds by amplifying the magnetic signal strength, thereby extending the sensing range to include low-speed rotation detection while maintaining the VR sensing function.
4Reliability
If no self-testing capability is provided, then the device complexity is reduced, but the operational integrity cannot be verified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-testing capability where the sensor system uses its own components (sensor, test magnet, and signal conditioning circuitry) to verify its operational integrity. The system automatically generates test signals, processes them through the signal conditioning circuit, and evaluates the output to determine sensor functionality without requiring external testing equipment, thus improving reliability while keeping the added complexity manageable.
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 solution enables reliable and safe self-testing of sensors before and after installation, ensuring operational integrity without damaging the sensor, and allows for sensing low speeds and stationary objects, improving reliability and reducing debris and damage risks.
Implementation Method 1
supplying a periodic magnetic field upon a sensing element... receiving an output from the sensing element indicating the operability of the sensing element
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for performing a self-test on a sensing device are described in the present disclosure. One implementation, among others, includes a method of performing a self test. In this implementation, the method includes supplying a periodic magnetic field upon a sensing element that is configured to sense a parameter of an object. The method further includes receiving an output from the sensing element indicating the operability of the sensing element. It should be noted that the output is received independently of the parameter of the object.