How to Choose Between Eddy Current Position Sensors and Rotary Transformers?

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How to Choose Between Eddy Current Position Sensors and Rotary Transformers?

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How to Choose Between Eddy Current Position Sensors and Rotary Transformers?

Research on White Box Modeling Methods for Negative Effects of Permanent Magnet Motor Variable Frequency Drive Based on Small Signal Finite Element Analysis》,This is original content and may not be reproduced without permission. For further communication regarding this article, please contact the editor: paul95231075

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Introduction

The performance requirements for rotor position sensors in new energy electric drive systems are stringent, as their accuracy and stability directly affect the precision of motor control. Currently, rotary transformers dominate the position sensor market in new energy electric drive systems due to their simple structure, convenient layout, and high precision characteristics. However, another type of sensor worth noting is the eddy current sensor. Next, we will provide a detailed introduction to eddy current sensors.

01#

Structure and Working Principle of Eddy Current Position Sensors

Eddy current position sensors are non-contact measuring devices based on the principle of electromagnetic induction. Their core components include a coil (integrated with a PCB), a target wheel, and a decoding chip, structured as shown in the figure below.

How to Choose Between Eddy Current Position Sensors and Rotary Transformers?

The primary coil requires a 5V DC power supply to generate a high-frequency AC signal of approximately 3.5 MHz, which acts on the surface of the metal target wheel, creating an eddy current effect. As the target wheel rotates, the secondary coil receives changes in the magnetic field, resulting in variations in voltage levels. This change is decoded by the internal chip and sent to the electronic control unit to obtain the actual position of the rotor.

From the structure described above, it is clear that the major cost is actually the decoding chip; if this chip is an imported one, it accounts for about 50% of the total cost of the eddy current sensor.

02#

How to Choose Between Eddy Current Position Sensors and Rotary Transformers

Why do rotary transformers dominate the market while the application of eddy current sensors is relatively limited? Let’s compare eddy current position sensors with rotary transformers.

_

Eddy Current Position Sensor

Rotary Transformer

Accuracy

High Precision

High Precision

Response Speed

Relatively Fast

Relatively Fast

Resistance to Harsh Environments

Can operate stably under harsh conditions

Can operate stably under harsh conditions

Cost

Depends on the chip

Depends on size

Installation and Debugging

Installation and debugging process is relatively complex and requires precise adjustment

Installation and debugging are relatively simple

From the comparison in the table above, we can draw the following conclusions: in terms of functionality, eddy current sensors and rotary transformers exhibit comparable performance, especially in terms of accuracy and response speed, both achieving high levels. However, there are significant differences in cost and installation/debugging aspects.

In terms of cost, the expenses for eddy current sensors are primarily concentrated on the chip, while the cost of rotary transformers is mainly composed of silicon steel sheets. In recent years, due to the shortage of automotive chips, the cost of eddy current sensors has not shown a significant advantage over rotary transformers. However, as the shortage of automotive chips gradually eases, the cost of eddy current sensors has significantly decreased, especially with the emergence of domestic automotive-grade chip alternatives, eliminating the cost disadvantage of eddy current sensors. Particularly when compared to larger rotary transformers, such as those used in oil-cooled motors, where the rotor needs to accommodate oil passages, choosing rotary transformers can lead to a significant increase in costs, thereby highlighting the cost advantage of eddy current sensors.

Regarding installation and debugging, eddy current sensors require the target wheel to be positioned on the rotor (usually placed on a balancing plate), which imposes certain requirements on the overall layout of the motor. In contrast, rotary transformers have a smaller impact on motor layout and are easier to adjust later. Therefore, when costs are similar, the advantages of using rotary transformers are evident.

Conclusion

In terms of functionality and performance, eddy current sensors and rotary transformers are comparable, but in terms of cost, especially when compared to large rotary transformers, eddy current sensors demonstrate advantages. Therefore, when selecting sensors, cost factors become an important reason to consider using eddy current sensors.

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