Programmable Linear Position Sensor Technology White Paper

Overview

This white paper from Novotechnik presents an innovative technology in programmable linear position sensors based on inductive measurement principles. Unlike traditional mechanical wiper-based sensors, these sensors operate contactlessly using inductive measurement, which harnesses electromagnetic laws—Ampère’s and Faraday’s laws—to derive precise, wear-free, and highly reliable linear position readings.

The core technology uses a printed circuit board patterned with sine and cosine conductive traces energized by phase-shifted AC currents. A magnetic position marker moves above these traces, causing modulations in the magnetic fields. The sensor measures the phase shift between transmitted and received signals, converting it into a DC output voltage proportional to the marker’s linear position. This design ensures immunity to shock, vibration, and external magnetic fields such as those from nearby motors.

A key feature is the programmable nature of this sensor technology, enabled by the embedded microprocessor and digital signal processing circuitry. Programmable parameters include electrical measurement range, slope, offset, and output voltage/current scaling. For example, users can program offsets to compensate for physical mounting tolerances, define output thresholds to serve as error detectors, or set customized measurement ranges to enhance noise immunity by focusing output scaling on the relevant portion of travel. The output slope can also be reversed, allowing output to decrease with increasing displacement if desired.

This programmability simplifies system integration and can reduce costs and development time by embedding essential control functions within the sensor itself, potentially eliminating the need for separate programmable controllers in certain applications. Programming is user-friendly—novel LED/button interfaces on devices like the NovoPad and LS1 Series guide users through configuration without complex tools.

Applications benefiting from this technology include material handling equipment, crimping machines, and linear actuators, particularly in environments with noise, precise short-stroke measurement needs, or where cost-effective and fast deployment is critical.

Overall, this document highlights advancements in combining non-contact inductive sensing and embedded programmability to vastly improve accuracy, durability, and integration flexibility for linear position sensing solutions, showcased in Novotechnik’s product offerings. Detailed programming examples and implementation guidelines are available through Novotechnik’s website.