DETECTION APPARATUS AND METHOD

摘要

An apparatus and method is provided for detecting perturbations in the local magnetic environment. The apparatus comprises: a capacitance device including a first and second capacitive plate, the second capacitive plate being separated from a magnet section of the first capacitive plate by a distance; and a means for receiving a magnetic element on the magnet section of the first capacitive plate, wherein movement between the magnet section of the first capacitive plate and the second capacitive plate indicates a change in capacitance. Means for calculating the capacitance of the capacitance device, and means for determining a change in capacitance may be provided and on the basis of the change in capacitance, it is judged whether a permanent magnet is near the capacitance device.