Possible uses for the sensor
For example, an RTY series sensor can be mounted next to the pedal to measure how far the pedal is pressed or released by the operator. The sensor detects the change in pedal position and sends a signal to the engine control unit to increase or decrease the flow of fuel and air through the throttle valve as needed. This type can be safer and more cost-effective than wired systems.
Benefits
Hall effect rotary position sensors are widely used in the automotive industry, particularly for pedal position detection in heavy-duty vehicles. These sensors offer several advantages that make them ideal for this application:
- Non-contact measurement: Hall effect sensors operate without contact, which means they are not subject to mechanical wear. This increases their service life and reliability, which is particularly important in heavy-duty vehicles that are operated under harsh conditions.
- High precision and accuracy: These sensors measure the angular position of an object by detecting voltage differences in magnetic fields. This enables precise and accurate detection of the pedal position, which is crucial for controlling the vehicle.
- Robustness: Hall effect sensors are insensitive to dust, dirt, and moisture, making them ideal for use in harsh environments, such as those commonly found in heavy-duty vehicles.
- Safety certifications: Many Hall effect sensors meet stringent requirements, underscoring their suitability for safety-critical applications in the automotive industry.
The use of Hall effect rotary position sensors for pedal position detection enables heavy-duty vehicles to be controlled more precisely and reliably. This helps improve vehicle safety and performance while reducing maintenance costs.
- RTY Series: These shaft-activated products are available in two versions: with integrated shaft with or without lever. The lever allows customers to reduce the number of mechanical parts required for their applications. This can lower the overall cost of the customer solution.
- RTP Series: This series takes non-contact detection to the next level by separating the magnet from the sensor housing. The absence of the actuator shaft means that there is no wear on the bearings that would otherwise be caused by radial forces. The magnet is available with or without a housing.
The integrated circuit, including conditioning and protection circuitry, is housed in an IP69K-rated enclosure for use in even the most demanding conditions. Eight operating ranges from 50° to 360° allow for a follow-up path and use in the most common applications. Factory EMB/EMC testing in accordance with automotive standards, integrated reverse polarity and short-circuit protection make the sensors a reliable solution.
- Functional principle:
- Hall effect sensors: These sensors utilize the Hall effect, which occurs when a magnetic field is applied perpendicular to an electric current in a conductor. This generates a voltage (Hall voltage) across the current flow, which can be measured.
- Magnetoresistive sensors: These sensors are based on the magnetoresistive effect, in which the electrical resistance of a material changes when a magnetic field is applied. There are different types of magnetoresistive effects, such as the anisotropic magnetoresistive effect (AMR), giant magnetoresistance (GMR), and tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR).
- Sensitivity and accuracy:
- Hall effect sensors: These are known for their high linearity and stability over a wide range of magnetic field strengths. However, they are less sensitive to small changes in the magnetic field compared to magnetoresistive sensors.
- Magnetoresistive sensors: These sensors are highly sensitive and can accurately detect small changes in the magnetic field. They are particularly useful in applications that require high sensitivity.
- Polarity:
- Hall effect sensors: These are typically unipolar or bipolar, meaning they respond to either the north or south pole of a magnet, or both.
- Magnetoresistive sensors: These are often omnipolar, meaning they can respond to both the north and south poles of a magnet.