Precision inductive position sensor tech for motor control in industrial and robotics
Date: 29/10/2023
Renesas Electronics has recently unveiled an inductive position sensor (IPS) technology designed specifically for highly accurate motor position sensor Ics used in robotics, industrial, and medical applications. This technology utilizes non-contact coil sensors, offering a cost-effective alternative to the traditionally used magnetic and optical encoders in motor control systems that require high speed, accuracy, and reliability.
The Renesas proprietary IPS technology employs sensing elements comprised of copper coils etched on a printed circuit board (PCB) to accurately determine the location of a metallic target. In contrast to bulky magnet-based sensors, the IPS products are capable of functioning at an impressive 600 Krpm (electrical) and promptly detecting the position from the moment of startup, with a propagation delay of under 2µs. This capability renders them suitable for motors operating at high rotational speeds. Furthermore, the sensor technology facilitates auto-calibration and linearization functionalities, guaranteeing consistent performance throughout the operational lifespan of a motor.
Based on the Vernier principle, the dual-coil sensor technology offers an impressive resolution of up to 19 bits and an exceptional accuracy of up to 14 bits. This remarkable performance sets them apart from other similar products currently available in the market. Furthermore, the robust sensor technology ensures reliable operation even in harsh environments. These sensors can withstand high temperatures, dust, moisture, vibration, and electromagnetic interference (EMI). Unlike magnetic sensors, induction sensors are immune to stray fields, eliminating the need for maintenance and reducing the chances of errors. This makes them a more reliable and cost-effective choice compared to conventional optical encoders or magnetic-based encoders. Additionally, these induction position sensors are lighter in weight, further enhancing their appeal.
“Our induction position sensor technology represents a significant leap forward in motor position sensors,” said Jan Leuckfeld, Senior Director, HPC Analog (Sensor) Division at Renesas. “They will enable us to provide differentiated motor position sensor Ics for industrial applications that are robust, highly accurate and cost-effective.”
“Position sensors for factory floors must endure extreme conditions such as humidity, high temperatures and vibration,” said Ulrich Marl, Key Account Manager at Lenord+Bauer, a Renesas customer and a leading manufacturer of encoders for industrial systems. “Through our collaboration with Renesas, we’ve integrated IPS-based technology into our encoder portfolio to ensure reliability and safety, while reducing downtime in critical applications.”
The induction position sensor technology is designed to seamlessly integrate into industrial networks and enable real-time monitoring and data analysis. It supports commonly used UART, ABI, and I2C communications interfaces, ensuring seamless integration into industrial networks. To further enhance its functionality, a complete toolchain is provided, including dedicated software for user customization and precision optimization. Renesas, the manufacturer, plans to combine this new sensor technology with a range of compatible devices from its portfolio, resulting in a variety of Winning Combinations. These combinations work together flawlessly, offering an optimized and low-risk design solution that accelerates time to market.
Key Features of the New Sensor Based on IPS Technology
Rotational speed: 600krpm (electrical)
Resolution: up to 19 bits
Accuracy: Up to 14 bits
Digital interfaces: UART, ABI, I2C
Extended ambient temperature range: -40 °C
Two voltage supply ranges: 3.3V ±10% or 5.0V ±10%
Over-voltage, reverse-polarity and short circuit protection: ±18V on both supply and output pins
Adaptable to any full-scale angle range through coil design
For more information visit: renesas.com/win
Source: Renesas
