New Magnetoresistive Sensor Developments for Angle, Position and Speed Measurement in small-and micro-sized Actuators

Inhalt:
Magnetoresistive (MR) sensors are not only used for measuring rotational and linear motion, but also for non-contact switching applications and furthermore for highly dynamic current measurement. The increasing demand for MR sensors is largely the result of increasingly complex demands on the sensors for high performance electric drives. The sensors must not only be accurate and dynamic, but also be robust under difficult operating conditions and exhibit very high reliability. Recent market developments are generating additional demands, with respect to compact dimensions and energy efficient operation. This combination of requirements is leading to the more intensive use of magnetic sensor principles, compared to optical, inductive or capacitive principles. This paper describes the principle of operation and benefits of MR sensors. This is followed by a description of practical application examples each demonstrating the advantages of MR sensors in challenging new applications for angle, position and speed measurement.