New measuring principle for low cost displacement sensors

Micro-Epsilon has developed a completely new displacement measurement principle with its new Magnetic Displacement Sensor (MDS). In contrast to the widely used Hall Effect principle, the MDS is based on a method patented by Micro-Epsilon, which is based on a linear relationship between the position of the magnet and the output signal. As printed coils are used for this measurement principle, the manufacturing method does not depend on semiconductor processes. This makes customer-specific adaptations considerably easier.

The sensors have an extremely high basic sensitivity, which enables a very simple and low cost evaluation circuit. With an eddy current sensor as the technological core, very fast, high resolution versions can be achieved. Compared to Hall Effect sensors, much larger measuring ranges (currently 60mm limit) can be achieved. In addition, significantly smaller magnets are required as the target. This reduces costs and simplifies installation.

A pulse width modulated signal is available as an output signal, which can be easily read by a microcontroller using a time measurement. The first models were specially developed by Micro-Epsilon for use in the white goods sector, particularly in washing machine production. The principle-specific benefits are particularly well suited to this application. On the one hand, the loading can be measured with very high resolution, while on the other hand, the movement of the tub when spinning can be measured with high dynamics.

Furthermore, the MDS family is suitable for applications in the automotive sector and for all OEM areas where long displacement measuring ranges and high resolution are required.