Position measurement using a variable flux collector

摘要

A magnetically-based position sensor. The sensor includes a magnet assembly that moves along a path, a common collector, one or more magnetic sensing elements, a first variable collector, and a second variable collector. The one or more magnetic sensing elements are coupled to the common collector. The first and second variable collectors are coupled to one of the one or more magnetic sensors and are configured to collect a magnetic field. The first and second variable collectors are positioned to transmit some of the magnetic flux generated by the magnet assembly as the magnet assembly moves along the path. The first variable collector and the second variable collector have a geometry and orientation such that the flux collected by the first and second variable collectors varies as the magnet moves along the path.

主权项

1. A magnetically-based position sensor comprising:
a magnet assembly that moves along a path; a common collector having a first end and a second end; one or more magnetic sensing elements coupled to the common collector; a first variable collector coupled to one of the one or more magnetic sensing elements and configured to collect a magnetic flux; and a second variable collector coupled to one of the one or more magnetic sensing elements and configured to collect a magnetic flux; wherein the first and second variable collectors are positioned to transmit some of the magnetic flux generated by the magnet assembly as the magnet assembly moves along the path; and wherein the first variable collector has a geometry and orientation such that the flux density at one of the one or more magnetic sensing elements is greater when the magnet assembly is positioned near the first end, and less when the magnet assembly is positioned near the second end, and the second variable collector has a geometry and orientation such that the flux density at one of the one or more magnetic sensing elements is greater when the magnet assembly is positioned near the second end, and less when the magnet assembly is positioned near the first end.