Two-Dimensional Magnet Positioning Through Field-Vector Triangulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing magnet-based positioning systems require on-site calibration and are temperature-dependent, making them inefficient and costly for precise positioning applications.
Innovation Solution
A magnet-based positioning system using an axially magnetized magnet with opposing poles along a common z-axis and a magnetic sensor arrangement in a perpendicular x-y-plane to determine magnetic field vectors, allowing for precise positioning through triangulation and angle calculations without relying on magnetic field strength.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If iterative movement-based positioning is used, then positioning capability is achieved, but time consumption and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical iterative movement approach with a magnetic field-based triangulation system. Magnetic sensors detect magnetic field vectors from a magnet, and through angle calculations and triangulation mathematics, the system directly computes position without physical movement, thereby eliminating time-consuming iterative processes while maintaining positioning precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces magnetic field vectors as an intermediary between the magnet and the positioning system. By measuring magnetic field vectors at different orientations and using these as intermediate data for triangulation calculations, the system achieves direct position determination without mechanical movement, resolving the contradiction between precision and time consumption
2Measurement precision
If magnetic field strength-based positioning is used, then positioning is achieved, but temperature dependence and calibration requirements worsen reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from magnetic field strength (which is temperature-dependent) to magnetic field vector direction/orientation. By measuring the orientation of magnetic field vectors rather than their magnitude, the system achieves temperature-independent positioning, as magnetic field direction remains stable across temperature variations, thereby improving reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent focuses on measuring local magnetic field vector orientations at specific sensor positions rather than relying on overall magnetic field strength. This localized measurement of field direction, combined with triangulation geometry, creates a positioning method that is inherently more reliable and less sensitive to temperature-induced field strength variations
3Measurement precision
If calibration-based positioning systems are used, then positioning accuracy is achieved, but device complexity and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service positioning system where the magnetic sensors and triangulation algorithm automatically determine position without requiring external calibration procedures. The system uses the inherent geometric relationship between multiple sensor measurements and the magnet to compute position directly, eliminating the need for manual calibration steps and simplifying operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from one-dimensional magnetic field strength measurement to two-dimensional magnetic field vector orientation measurement. By adding the angular dimension to the measurement space, the system achieves direct triangulation capability that eliminates calibration requirements, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining high positioning accuracy
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
Enables high-precision, calibration-free positioning with low power consumption and reduced energy costs by using xMR sensors, suitable for applications like autonomous robot charging and industrial tray positioning.
Implementation Method 1
The magnetic sensor arrangement is configured to determine magnetic field vectors in an x-y-plane perpendicular to the common z-axis, the magnetic field vectors representing the direction of emanated magnetic field lines in the x-y-plane
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a magnet-based positioning system including an axially magnetized magnet, wherein two opposing magnetic poles are arranged along a common z-axis, and a magnetic sensor arrangement being axially spaced apart from the magnet, and being configured to determine magnetic field vectors in an x-y-plane perpendicular to the common z-axis. The magnetic sensor arrangement is configured to determine a first magnetic field vector at a first yet unknown position in the x-y-plane, and to determine a second magnetic field vector at a different second yet unknown position in the x-y-plane, and to determine an actual x-y-position of the magnetic sensor arrangement relative to the magnet based on the first and second magnetic field vectors and based on a known relative spatial distance between the first yet unknown position and the second yet unknown position.