Abstract: A magnetic position sensor including a pair of magnets of opposite polarity which are spaced apart to define an air gap extending along an axis, and a pair of shaped pole pieces at least partially disposed within the air gap and positioned adjacent respective ones of the magnets. The pole pieces are formed of a composite material comprising a non-magnetic material and a magnetizable material. The pole pieces cooperate with the magnets to generate a magnetic field that is substantially symmetrical relative to the axis and which has a magnetic flux density that linearly varies along the axis. A magnetic flux sensor is positioned within the magnetic field to sense varying magnitudes of magnetic flux density along the axis through a sensing plane oriented substantially perpendicular to the axis. The magnetic flux sensor generates an output signal uniquely representative of a sensed magnitude of the magnetic flux density.

Abstract: A pulse signal generator comprises a detection assembly including a magnetic field generator and a magnetic element wire able to cause a large Barkhausen jump such that it produces a pulse signal responsive to the movement of the object to be detected; a case for housing the detection assembly; an attaching member; and a positioning guide provided on the inside surface of the case to position the detection assembly at the desired position with respect to the object to be detected.

Abstract: According to the invention there is provided a pulse signal generator comprising a plurality of magnetic elements arranged in an imaginable plane and capable of producing large Barkhausen jumps; a first unit for generating a magnetic field, which is changed by the object to be detected to cause the magnetic elements to produce the large Barkhausen jumps, the first unit consisting of a pair of magnet/yoke combinations provided on opposite sides of said imaginable plane such that their poles are oriented in opposite directions, forming a detecting area at an end thereof; a second unit for detecting the large Barkhausen jumps to produce corresponding pulse signals; and first and second adjusting yokes being movable on one of the magnet/yoke combinations along one of the magnetic elements and on the other of the magnet/yoke combinations along the other of said magnetic elements, respectively.

Abstract: A modular waveguide assembly for use in a position sensor promotes efficient manufacturing, and can be tested and handled separately from the electronics module of the sensor. The waveguide assembly includes a channel having an opening extending along its length, a waveguide located within the channel, a conductor located within the channel, and a mode converter, such as a coil, located within the channel and positioned to generate an electrical signal from a signal traveling along the waveguide. A damping material can be inserted into the channel opening and around a portion of the waveguide such that the material adheres to the waveguide. Preferably, the damping material is at least initially partially flowable, and is then cured.

Abstract: In order to provide a position transducer device for detecting the position of a position transmitter, comprising a housing extending in a longitudinal direction and a measuring sensor arranged in the housing and extending parallel to the longitudinal direction, the position transmitter being coupled to this measuring sensor without contact, which is variable in its use for a user it is suggested that an outer surface of the housing be designed such that it can be enclosed at least partially by a fixing receiving means for fixing it to an application and that the housing can be rotated in the fixing receiving means.

Abstract: A pulse signal generator comprises a detecting assembly including a magnetic element wire (5) and a coil (2) wound around a bobbin (6) to generate electric pulses and a waveform shaping circuit integrated with the detecting assembly so as to shape the waveform of the electric pulses to output a pulse signal.

Abstract: In a method and device for measuring at least one parameter of a metal bed, measuring is obtained by a magnetic field being generated from one side of the metal bed so that eddy currents are generated in the metal bed as the metal bed moves relative to the magnetic field. The metal bed and the magnetic field are made to move relative to one another. A force related to the eddy currents affects a body and the action of the force on the body is detected by a detecting device, the detected force being a function of a desired parameter of the metal bed.

Abstract: A steering angle sensing system 1, 26 for measuring the angle position of a vehicle steering wheel is disclosed which uses at least one position magnet 7, 8, G1, G2, G3 coupled to the rotary movement of the steering wheel 2′ as a transducer, and a magnetostrictive transducer 4, 35 as a measuring device and a second measuring device 70, 90 for measuring the angular movement of the vehicle wheels. Magnetostrictive transducer 4, 35 includes an elongated, magnetostrictive waveguide 9, 33 extending over a defined arc section, with mode converter 10, 35 for detecting magnetostrictively generated voltage pulses at one end. The waveguide 9, 33 is stationary related to the rotary movement of at least one position magnet 7, 8, G1, G2, G3 so that, when turning the steering wheel 2′, the magnet field of one position magnet 7, 8, G1, G2, G3 is applied to waveguide 9,33 in different positions dependent of the position of the steering wheel 2′.

Abstract: A method for measuring temperature and of adjusting for temperature sensitivity of a medical device having a position sensor comprises the steps of providing a medical device having a position sensor and measuring voltage at the position sensor. A resistance value is then determined from the measured voltage and a temperature value at the position sensor is determined based on the resistance value. The temperature value is determined using the position sensor. Accordingly, temperature is directly measured and monitored using the position sensor itself. Additionally, a sensitivity is determined at the position sensor based on the temperature. Location information from the position sensor is adjusted based on the sensitivity.

Abstract: A medical device and position sensor combination for use in medical applications comprises a position sensor having a core made of a high permeable material. The core material is made of a Wiegand effect material comprising a mixture of cobalt, vanadium, and iron. The position sensor has an outer diameter of approximately 0.4 mm and is used in a medical device having an outer diameter of approximately 0.67 mm.

Abstract: A position detecting apparatus includes: a position sensor 10 that inputs an excitation signal having a given period waveform and outputs a first amplitude modified signal induced in accordance with a detected position from a first output winding and outputs a second amplitude modified signal induced in accordance with a detected position from a second output winding; a first phase shifting circuit 23 for electrically shifting a phase of the first amplitude modified signal by a given angle; a second phase shifting circuit 24 for electrically shifting a phase of the second amplitude modified signal by a given angle; converting means 15,16 for converting the signal outputted from the first phase shifting circuit 23 and the signal outputted from the second phase shifting circuit 24 into a phase modulated signal; and calculating means 17-22 for obtaining a detected position on the basis of the phase of the phase modulated signal outputted from the converting means 15,16.

Abstract: A rotary position of a rotary element is registered by a sensor arrangement having at least two sensors and an evaluation circuit disposed downstream thereof. In each position of the rotary element, the sensors are capable of supply raw signals by which it is possible to determine which angular range the rotary element has rotated. A power generation system outputs power pulses to the sensor arrangement sufficiently frequently so that, by using the registered angular ranges, detection of the direction of rotation of the rotary element is possible.

Abstract: The present fluid cylinder includes a cylinder body having a cylindrical internal cavity therein with a longitudinal axis therethrough, the internal cavity being adapted for disposition of a piston and rod assembly for axial movement therein. The cylinder includes a member such as an end cap enclosing an axial end of the internal cavity, the member having a sensor port or passage therethrough extending between an internal opening communicating with the internal cavity and an external opening. A sensor is disposed in the internal opening of the sensor port or passage, and a sensor electronics module is disposed therein between the sensor and the external opening. The sensor is operable for sensing an axial distance of the piston or the rod from a predetermined location when disposed in the internal cavity and outputting signals representative of the distance to the sensor electronics module which includes circuitry for retrieving the signals.

Abstract: A position sensor for a medical device comprises a core made of a high permeable material such as Wiegand effect material comprising a mixture of cobalt, vanadium, and iron. The position sensor has an outer diameter of approximately 0.4 mm and is used in a medical device having an outer diameter of approximately 0.67 mm.

Abstract: A motion detector comprising a rotator member having at least one radially positioned member and being mounted for rotation from at least a first position to at least a second position; a detector member, preferably a Hall Effect sensor; and a magnet producing a magnetic field; wherein, the radially positioned member is characterized by altering the magnetic flux of the magnetic field when it moves into and out of proximity to the magnet; and wherein the detector member detects the alteration of the magnetic flux. The motion detector is preferably used to detect the speed, type, position, presence, and absence of a printer ribbon cartridge.

Abstract: A high precision position detecting apparatus is provided in which a periodical position detecting error caused by an offset, dispersion of an amplitude difference, or a phase difference in an output signal of a position sensor is reduced. Digitized values DS and DC of the position sensor are subjected to averaging processing to output values ADS and ADC. A multiplier and an integrator calculate values ADS and ADC, using an output DST of a distance calculator, and obtain values SOS and COS which are substantially proportional to a value derived by integrating two output signals of the position sensor by a movement quantity. A divider divides the values SOS and COS by a value DSTS which is equivalent to a displacement and outputs values SO and CO which are equivalent to the average of two output signals of the position sensor. When a signal SET changes from low to high for each integer multiple period of two output signals of the position sensor, values SO and CO as offset components are stored in a memory.

Abstract: A steering angle sensing system 1, 26 for measuring the angle position of a vehicle steering wheel is disclosed which uses at least one position magnet 7, 8, G1, G2, G3 coupled to the rotary movement of the steering wheel 2′ as a transducer, and a magnetostrictive transducer 4, 35 as a measuring device and a second measuring device 70, 90 for measuring the angular movement of the vehicle wheels. Magnetostrictive transducer 4, 35 includes an elongated, magnetostrictive waveguide 9, 33 extending over a defined arc section, with mode converter 10, 35 for detecting magnetostrictively generated voltage pulses at one end. The waveguide 9, 33 is stationary related to the rotary movement of at least one position magnet 7, 8, G1, G2, G3 so that, when turning the steering wheel 2′, the magnet field of one position magnet 7, 8, G1, G2, G3 is applied to waveguide 9, 33 in different positions dependent of the position of the steering wheel 2′.

Abstract: First to third exciting coils are arranged at a reference position. First to third detecting coils are arranged at a measuring subject position distant from the reference position. Voltages induced in the first to third detecting coils are measured when the first exciting coil is excited. Voltages induced in the first to third detecting coils are measured when the second exciting coil is excited. Voltages induced in the first to third detecting coils are measured when the third exciting coil is excited. An azimuth of the measuring subject position from the reference position based on a predetermined calculation by using all nine induced-voltages which are obtained by the first to third detecting coils.

Abstract: A sensor detects skewed adjacent movable component. The sensor may be used to detect harmful skews of aircraft control surfaces, such as slats or flaps on aircraft wings, which may be caused by an actuator disconnection from the surface it drives. Harmful skew, which is a relative asymmetrical motion of control surfaces beyond a predetermined limit, is detected by the sensor, but the relatively smaller harmless skew caused by normal flight is ignored. The sensor comprises first and second arms connected to a common base that may be attached to a first control surface. A constraining means such as a mechanical fuse holds the arms together while a separating means such as a spring exerts a separating force on the arms when the fuse breaks. A switching means is integral to the two arms. A striker pin on a second control surface strikes the first or second sensor arm when the relative motion between the control surfaces exceeds a certain predetermined limit.

Abstract: An apparatus having magnetic detection sensor deployed on a micro machined optical element is exposed to a magnetic field to sense change in property as the micro machined optical element is manipulated with respect to the magnetic field, and, conversely when the magnetic field is manipulated with respect to the micro machined optical element. The electrical, optical and/or mechanical change in sensor property varies according to said manipulation, and telemetry created by said property change tracks the manipulation of the moveable portion of the optical element. The system includes a configuration capable of compensating for temperature variation.

Abstract: A time/analog converter for adjusting the zero point and amplification of the output characteristic of a sensor includes an integrator whose output is connected to the input of a holding member. A reference voltage and the output voltage of the holding member occur at the input of the integrator. A control means actuates switches connecting the integrator to the holding member and applying the reference voltage and the output voltage to the input of the integrator so that the reference voltage is at the integrator input for a first time interval and the holding member output voltage is at the integrator input for a second time interval. The integrator output voltage is applied to the holding member for a third time interval. A controllable pulse shaper is connected to one of the switches and can close it for a required time interval. A related method is also described.

Abstract: A very low power quadrature position sensing system that includes a first sensor, which defines a starting point of a first channel. First sensor is coupled to a first square wave generator. A second sensor, in quadrature with first sensor, defining a starting point of a second channel, with second sensor coupled to a second square wave generator. The system further includes a moving member having a magnetized surface with a magnetic distribution disposed on the magnetized surface.

Abstract: Claimed are a method and an arrangement for the transmission of useful signals of a magnetostrictive position sensor which is arranged within a housing, including a control circuit (1) for generating an electrical control pulse, a pulse generator (2) for exciting current pulses in the ultrasonic exciter circuit (6), an ultrasonic pulse detector (3) which upon the reception of an ultrasonic pulse on a magnetostrictive waveguide supplies a corresponding electrical reply signal, and an evaluation circuit (4) for determining the relative position of a position marking (magnet) which is displaceable along the waveguide. Therein the individual circuits of the electronics of the magnetostrictive sensor are to be supplied by way of a cable which is of thinner cross-section and both control pulses and also reply pulses are to be transmitted as useful signals by way of that cable.

Abstract: A magnetostrictive travel measuring device which in spite of simplicity of manufacture minimises the amount of space required and at the same time provides optimum protection for the device and does not excessively limit the mobility of the component to be monitored with respect to the waveguide, comprising an elongate housing in the form of a hollow, peripherally closed profile with at least one flat external surface, a waveguide unit in the interior of the housing, wherein the waveguide of the waveguide unit extends in the longitudinal direction of the profile, and an electronic evaluation system, characterised in that the external contour of the profile has, associated with each external surface, at least one pair of external grooves.

Abstract: A magnetoresistive sensor assembly includes a housing and a permanent magnet disposed within the housing. The sensor also includes two magnetoresistive dies within the housing in close proximity to the magnet. Three leads that are electrically connected to the magnetoresistive dies extend from the housing. The sensor assembly is manufactured using a leadframe formed with plural long slots and plural short slots. The magnet is attached to the leadframe such that the corners of the magnet are visible through the leadframe, and the magnetoresistive dies are attached to the leadframe based on the position of the magnet. As such, greater precision concerning the placement of the magnetoresistive dies relative to the magnet can be achieved.

Abstract: An improved piezo electric actuator housing for use in a magnetostrictive device containing a piezo electric actuator and a magnetostrictive, where the improvement is a substantially one-piece container having a slot positioned therein, where the piezo electric actuator and the magnetostrictive wire are partly positioned in the slot, and an elastomeric cushion is positioned in the slot so that the magnetostrictive wire is mechanically coupled to the piezo electric actuator in the slot.

Abstract: A modular waveguide assembly for use in a position sensor promotes efficient manufacturing, and can be tested and handled separately from the electronics module of the sensor. The waveguide assembly includes a channel having an opening extending along its length, a waveguide located within the channel, a conductor located within the channel, and a mode converter, such as a coil, located within the channel and positioned to generate an electrical signal from a signal traveling along the waveguide. A damping material can be inserted into the channel opening and around a portion of the waveguide such that the material adheres to the waveguide. Preferably, the damping material is at least initially partially flowable, and is then cured.

Abstract: A combined vacuum cup and sensor is utilized to lift parts. The vacuum cup defines a vacuum chamber between radially inner and outer lips. The sensor is mounted radially inwardly of the inner lip, but is isolated from the vacuum chamber. In this way, parts that are difficult for a larger cup to lift can be lifted easily. Moreover, the sensor need not be provided with a fluid tight seal.

Abstract: A very low power quadrature position sensing system that includes a first sensor, which defines a starting point of a first channel. First sensor is coupled to a first square wave generator. A second sensor, in quadrature with first sensor, defining a starting point of a second channel, with second sensor coupled to a second square wave generator. The system further includes a moving member having a magnetized surface with a magnetic distribution disposed on the magnetized surface.

Abstract: A steering angle sensing system 1 for measuring the angle position of a vehicle steering wheel is disclosed which uses at least one position magnet 7, 8 coupled to the rotary movement of the steering wheel as a transducer, and a magnetostrictive transducer 4 as a measuring device. Magnetostrictive transducer 4 includes an elongated, magnetostrictive waveguide 9 extending over a defined arc section, with mode converter 10 for detecting magnetostrictively generated voltage pulses at one end. The waveguide 9 is stationary related to the rotary movement of at least one position magnet; 7, 8, so that, when turning the steering wheel, the magnet field of one position magnet 7, 8 is applied to waveguide 9 in different positions dependent of the position of the steering wheel.

Abstract: The present fluid cylinder includes a cylinder body having a cylindrical internal cavity therein with a longitudinal axis therethrough, the internal cavity being adapted for disposition of a piston and rod assembly for axial movement therein. The cylinder includes a member such as an end cap enclosing an axial end of the internal cavity, the member having a sensor port or passage therethrough extending between an internal opening communicating with the internal cavity and an external opening. A sensor is disposed in the internal opening of the sensor port or passage, and a sensor electronics module is disposed therein between the sensor and the external opening. The sensor is operable for sensing an axial distance of the piston or the rod from a predetermined location when disposed in the internal cavity and outputting signals representative of the distance to the sensor electronics module which includes circuitry for retrieving the signals.

Abstract: A magnetostrictive position measuring device with high measurement precision, comprising a containment tube which accommodates a magnetostrictive tube inside which a conducting wire is accommodated, a transducer device being provided at one end of the magnetostrictive tube and an evaluating device for evaluating the signal acquired by the transducer device being connected to the transducer device. The magnetostrictive tube is connected to the containment tube by a conducting device which is suitable to provide electrical continuity between the conducting wire accommodated in the magnetostrictive tube and the containment tube.

Abstract: A magneto-strictive sensor 82 for determining a position of a valve 70 and/or a rotor 68 of an electromechanical valve assembly 46 is provided. In particular, the magneto-strictive sensor 82 is utilized to determine a rotational position of the rotor 68 and/or an axial position of the valve 70. The sensor 82 includes a sonic conduit 144 extending around a portion of a circumference of the rotor 68 of the valve assembly 46. The sensor 82 further includes a sonic wave generator 150 generating a sonic wave in the conduit 144 responsive to a transmit signal. The sonic wave propagates to a localized stress boundary 156 in the conduit 144 which is induced by a sensor magnet 80 rotating with the rotor 68. The sonic wave is reflected in the conduit 144 from the stress boundary 156. The sensor 82 further includes a sonic wave receiver 152 receiving the reflected sonic wave from the conduit 144 and generating a received signal responsive to the sonic wave.

Abstract: An analyte, viscosity, or temperature sensing apparatus for operative arrangement within a time-varying magnetic field, including a sensor with an outer surface that is chemically, frictionally, or thermally responsive and adhered to a base magnetostrictive element, and a receiver to measure a first and second value for magneto-elastic emission intensity of the sensor taken at, respectively, a first and second interrogation frequency. A change in mass or a change in material stiffness of the sensor due to the responsiveness, the viscosity and mass density of a fluid therearound, or the temperature, can be identified. The receiver, alternatively, measures a plurality of successive values for magneto-elastic emission intensity of the sensor taken over an operating range of successive interrogation frequencies to identify a value for the sensor's magneto-elastic resonant frequency (a fundamental frequency or harmonic thereof).

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for monitoring an angular displacement, such as angle position and the direction of displacement. The method and apparatus includes at least one resonator placed in proximity to a electrodynamic profile and exciting within said resonator an alternating electromagnetic field. The electromagnetic field should be at a frequency at which the electromagnetic field contacts the electrodynamic profile and then variations of the electromagnetic field parameters are measured for the resonator caused by rotating the electrodynamic profile. Excitation of the resonator is by an electromagnetic field in the form of at least one slowed electromagnetic wave having a suitable energy distribution of the electric and magnetic fields for measuring the electromagnetic field parameters.

Abstract: A pulse signal generator comprising a magnetic element (1) able to cause a large Barkhausen jump; a detection member (2) for detecting a magnetic change in the magnetic element (1) to generate a pulse signal; and a pair of magnets (3, 4) provided on both sides of the magnetic element (1) such that their poles are opposed to each other; a magnetic circuit formation adjusting member (8, 9) attached to at least one of the magnets (3) so that when an object (5A) passes a pair of poles (3A, 4A) on one end of the magnets (3, 4), a magnetic field applied to the magnetic element changes to cause a large Barkhausen jump in the magnetic element (1), thus causing the detection member (2) to generate a pulse signal.

Abstract: A device for determining the position of objects (T) inside a space (P), in particular for locating a tumor inside a human body. At least one emitter unit (SE) and at least one receiver unit (S11, . . . S22) are provided and, in a first embodiment, the emitter unit(s) (SE) are located inside and/or as close as possible to the object (T) under observation and the receiver units(s) (S11, . . . S22) are located preferably outside the space (P). In a second embodiment, the receiver unit(s) (SE) are located inside and/or as close as possible to the object (T) under observation and the emitter unit(s) (S11, . . . S22) are located preferably outside the space (P).

Abstract: A position verification apparatus comprising a movable member disposed within and movable with respect to a housing containing the movable member, a means for generating a magnetic field within the housing, a first magnetically responsive means for sensing the position of the movable member and outputting a signal indicative of the position of the movable member, a second magnetically responsive means for sensing the presence of the movable member and outputting a signal indicative of the position of the movable member and a means for comparing the signal output from the first magnetically responsive means and the signal output from the second magnetically responsive means.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for locating the position, preferably in three dimensions, of a sensor by generating magnetic fields which are detected at the sensor. The magnetic fields are generated from a plurality of locations and, in one embodiment of the invention, enable both the orientation and location of a single coil sensor to be determined. The present invention thus finds application in many areas where the use of prior art sensors comprising two or more mutually perpendicular coils is inappropriate.

Abstract: A magnetostrictive linear position sensor produces a signal which is a time period. It is sometimes required to measure this time period and produce an output in another form which accurately represents the time period. The final output may be a voltage, current, frequency, digital or other signal format. A time period is commonly measured using a clock and a counter. The resolution is limited by the frequency of the clock. An upper limit for the clock frequency is usually set based on power consumption or other circuit constraint. A method and apparatus is disclosed for improving the resolution of a time interval using low power and for providing a response after one time period without averaging.

Abstract: A position detector includes an outer tube of having a magnetostrictive wire disposed therein. An electric circuit is mounted completely within the outer tube and is electrically connected to a pickup coupled to the magnetostrictive wire. A multi-pin connector is mounted at one end of the outer tube for coupling conductors extending from the circuit in the outer tube to external conductors. In an alternative embodiment, the position detector includes a threaded adapter threadingly mountable within an end wall of a pressurized fluid operated cylinder. Conductors extend from the circuit in the outer tube through the adapter to an external connector.

Abstract: A measurement transducer and method is provided which provides a pair of pulses as an output, the measured condition being represented by the time between the pulses, and which includes internal compensation such that the pair of pulses are adjusted to mimic the output of a predetermined ideal transducer. In one embodiment, correction factors are calculated for a magnetostrictive linear position transducer by comparing the transducer output with a position measurement taken by a separate measuring device. These correction factors are stored in a non-volatile memory. Then, during operation of the transducer, a correction factor is selected for each uncorrected measurement and added to the uncorrected measurement to provide a compensated measurement. The compensated measurement is then used to generate a time value using a calculation which includes a predetermined standard waveguide propagation velocity value.

Abstract: A metering device has a magnet with ten poles which is driven to rotate by a gear connected to a source of rotation that is proportional to fluid flow, the passage of time, or other phenomenon. A reed switch is mounted so that rotation of the poles of the magnet, into and out of a position adjacent to the reed switch causes the reed switch to open and close as the magnet rotates. The opening and closing of the reed switch causes a step change in voltage applied to an electronic device which increments a counter. A second reed switch spaced from the rotating magnet sufficiently so that it remains normally open can act as a sensitive device for detecting the presence of extraneous magnetic fields that might interfere with the operation of the first reed switch.

Abstract: A device for sensing velocity variations in a conductive body 10 moving through a magnetic gap 12 between two discrete portions 13, 14 of a magnetic circuit 15. The magnetic circuit 15 generates a magnetic flux 16 in the gap 12 to induce eddy currents 17 in the body 10 moving through the gap. The device includes an eddy current sensor defining at least one further gap 24 through which the body 10 is also moved, and at least one sensor coil 18. A voltage is induced in the coil by variations in the induced eddy currents. The voltage is detectable; providing an indication of variations, that is to say accelerations or decelerations, in velocity by providing two discrete magnetic circuit portions, the size and weight of the device be reduced while enhancing the ability to sense eddy currents. The device may be used in a vehicle to sense vibration, acceleration, or other motion.

Abstract: A magnetic-based sensor is disclosed which can detect a linear and rotary position of a shaft whose movement is to be measured. Such sensor can operate to yield linear displacement as well as rotation. A position magnet is mounted on the shaft for measuring linear motion. A spirally wound magnet is mounted on the shaft to detect rotational motion. Both of such motions are detected by a single magnetic-based sensor.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for detecting particular frequencies of vibration utilize a magnetically-tunable beam element having a stress-sensitive coating and means for providing magnetic force to controllably deflect the beam element thereby changing its stiffness and its resonance frequency. It is then determined from the response of the magnetically-tunable beam element to the vibration to which the beam is exposed whether or not a particular frequency or frequencies of vibration are detected.

Abstract: An electric motor is described in which a position sensor is provided which generates a plurality of output signals each dependent upon the relative position of the rotor and the stator. These signals are processed to generate a set of commutation control signals for controlling the commutation of the drive current to the stator coils. In one embodiment, a phase shift can be electronically applied to each of the position sensor coils to adjust the timing of the switching in accordance with the motor's current speed and load demands. In another embodiment, these signals are also used in a servo-control loop, in order to control, for example, the speed and/or output torque of the motor.

Abstract: A magnetic field sensitive sensor whose output signal yields information about the distance, rotational velocity (speed) and direction of rotation of a magnetic field simultaneously. The magnetic field can be generated by a permanent magnet and/or the effect of electric current. Provided is a sensor whose working frequency distinctly exceeds the limit frequency fGr established in the prior art for magnetic sensors with bistable magnetic elements (BME) as core and whose output signal simultaneously contains information about the distance, speed and rotating direction of a magnetic field. Since the limit frequency fGr of the large Barkhausen effect (LBE) is determined by objective physical processes, the sensor function, uses a different physical principle.

Abstract: A sensor device for continuous measurement of the position of a damping piston in a damping cylinder of a vibration damper, used, in particular, in the spring strut of a motor vehicle, is proposed. The corresponding electronic control and evaluation circuit of such a sensor device is to be located in the immediate vicinity of the sensor element and in particular, the problems related to this measure, involving the sealing of the electronic circuit, with respect to the harsh conditions of the corresponding building space, are solved. This is possible in that the sensor element and the electronic control and evaluation circuit are placed within a damping piston, consisting of a basic body and a cover, and are hermetically enclosed, with respect to the outside, by a surrounding seal, lying between the basic body and the cover of the damping piston.

Abstract: A modular waveguide assembly for use in a position sensor promotes efficient manufacturing, and can be tested and handled separately from the electronics module of the sensor. The waveguide assembly includes a channel having an opening extending along its length, a waveguide located within the channel, a conductor located within the channel, and a mode converter, such as a coil, located within the channel and positioned to generate an electrical signal from a signal traveling along the waveguide. A damping material can be inserted into the channel opening and around a portion of the waveguide such that the material adheres to the waveguide. Preferably, the damping material is at least initially partially flowable, and is then cured.