Abstract: Inductive position detector (10) is described which includes scale (20) having a longitudinal axis containing a train of magnetic balls (22), and a transducer (30) moveable relative to the scale (20). The transducer (30) includes means to induce a magnetic field in the scale (20). Magnetic markers (23) are provided at axially spaced locations along the scale (20). As the transducer (30) is moved along the scale (20), the pattern of magnetic markers (23) detected enables the position of the transducer to be determined.

Abstract: The invention relates to an inductive position detector (1) comprising a first member (9) having a longitudinal axis and an element of magnetic material extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis and having a periodically varying dimension in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, and a second member (10) movable relatively to the first member along the longitudinal axis and comprising means to induce a magnetic field in the element. The position detector analyses characteristic variations in the magnetic field to determine the position of the first member relative to the second member.

Abstract: Inductive position detector (10) is described which includes scale (20) having a longitudinal axis containing a train of magnetic balls (22), and a transducer (30) moveable relative to the scale (20). The transducer (30) includes means to induce a magnetic field in the scale (20). Magnetic markers (23) are provided at axially spaced locations along the scale (20). As the transducer (30) is moved along the scale (20), the pattern of magnetic markers (23) detected enables the position of the transducer to be determined.