Abstract: A magnetic position encoder comprises a magnetic field source and a magnetic field sensor which are movable relative to each other along a given path. The magnetic field sensor measures two components of the magnetic field produced by the magnetic field source. From the measured components a position signal is then derived which represents the relative position of the magnetic field sensor and magnetic field source. Embodiments, of the position encoder in accordance with the invention are characterized in that the determination of the position signal includes a division of the two measured components of the magnetic field. These embodiments in accordance with the invention have the advantage that the position signal is a linear function of the position.

Abstract: A sensor for the detection of the direction of a magnetic field comprises one single magnetic field concentrator with a flat shape and at least a first horizontal Hall-effect element and a second horizontal Hall-effect element, whereby the Hall-effect elements are arranged in the area of the edge of the magnetic field concentrator. Within its environment, the magnetic field concentrator alters the course of the field lines of the magnetic field and, in particular, has the effect that the field lines which, in the absence of the magnetic field concentrator would run parallel to the surface of the Hall-effect elements penetrate the Hall-effect elements almost vertically to their surface. Instead of horizontal Hall-effect elements, vertical Hall-effect elements can also be used when they are arranged beside the magnetic field concentrator.

Abstract: A magnetic field sensor for measurement of the three components (Bx, By, Bz) of a magnetic field comprises a Hall-effect element (1) and an electronic circuit (22). The Hall-effect element (1) comprises an active area (18) of a first conductivity type which is contacted with voltage and current contacts (2-5 or 6-9). Four voltage contacts (2-5) are present which are connected to inputs of the electronic circuit (22). By means of summation or differential formation of the electrical potentials (V2, V3, V4, V5) present at the voltage contacts (2-5), the electronic circuit (22) derives three signals (Vx, Vy, Vz) which are proportional to the three components (Bx, By, Bz) of the magnetic field.