PSTI

Rotary Through-Shaft Inductive eMotor Rotor Position Sensor

Accurate measurement of the angular position, direction, and speed of the rotor shaft is essential for optimizing motor inverter control and ensuring the electric motor operates with maximum efficiency. With their lighter weight, compact dimensions, immunity to stray fields, and comparatively lower cost, Inductive eMotor Rotor Position Sensors represent a true alternative to encoders and resolvers. Their capability to be precisely customized to match specific motor dimensions provides increased flexibility in the development of electric and hybrid powertrains.

This inductive off-axis rotational absolute sensor for motor feedback combines a through-shaft design with the physical principle of induction in a wire loop and eddy currents to detect the position of a solid metallic target rotating above a set of coils. This allows a reduction in parts and higher design flexibility (e.g., through-shaft, end-of-shaft, and arc configurations). Furthermore, inductive eMotor rotary position sensors can be designed to be ASIL-D compliant at the sensor level.

Due to their inductive measurement principle, the PSTI sensors are insensitive to external magnetic fields (no Hall-effect sensors) and electrical fields, making them highly suitable for close proximity to electric motors. Additionally, they are robust against tilt, misalignment, air gap variations, and harsh environmental conditions such as moisture, pollution, temperature fluctuations, vibrations, and shocks.

An End-of-shaft Inductive eMotor Rotor Position Sensor version is available here.