Reduced component count in rotary sensor design

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Jan 21, 2002

A new dual output, Hall effect rotary sensor is ideally suited to the demanding requirements of automotive and heavy equipment applications and is already in use in vehicle suspension

BEI Duncan Electronics is introducing the 9900 series, dual output, Hall effect rotary sensor.

The advanced design features a reduced number of components and simplified construction, while the use of non-contacting position sensing technology, provides superior reliability and durability.

The sensor is ideally suited to the demanding requirements of automotive and heavy equipment applications and is already in use in vehicle suspension, engine and transmission controls.

Hall effect sensors are light and compact.

They use a moveable magnet to produce a voltage across a semiconductor layer.

The output voltage is proportional to the mechanical deflection of the sensor and, because there are no brushes or contacts, Hall effect sensors are highly accurate, robust and have a long operating life.

The design provides the full redundancy of two independent Hall detectors in a common package.

Electronics are built into a rigid enclosure with integral sealed connector designed to IP 67.

An industry standard connector provides easy plug-in installation.

Two fully programmable analogue outputs allow for offset, gain, slope and temperature compensation while sintered magnets provide excellent temperature stability and corrosion resistance.

Sensor outputs are 0.5 to 4.5V and 0.25V to 2.25V with an input voltage of 5.0V DC.

Mechanical travel is +/- 90deg with a typical active electrical angle of +/- 45deg, including both clockwise and anti-clockwise rotation.

Custom specification electrical travel designs are also available.

The 9900 Sensor incorporates a symmetrical set of rotating magnets with fixed sensor for improved accuracy and reliability.

Standard operating temperature range is -40C to +85C with the option of +150C.

Accuracy is +/-2.0% of full scale at room temperature and +/-3% of full scale over operating temperature range.

Mechanical life is rated to 35 million full cycles and the rugged device can withstand 5G peak vibration and up to 50G shock.

The device also features industry standard EMC protection.

BEI Technologies is an established manufacturer of electronic sensors, motors, actuators and motion control products used for factory and office automation, medical equipment, military, aviation and space systems.

In addition, sales to manufacturers of transportation equipment including automobiles, trucks and off-road equipment have become a significant addition to the Company's business in recent years, in particular, sales of the Company's micro-machined quartz yaw rate sensors used in advanced vehicle stability control systems.

BEI also manufactures electronic steering wheel position sensors, seat-memory modules, throttle position and pressure sensors and other devices used in automotive systems.