Digital position sensor targets car steering apps

TT electronics BI Technologies Electronic Components Division has developed a digital angular position sensor (DAPS) for automotive steering applications, providing design engineers with a precision output, non-contact device for absolute position sensing. The precision, high-resolution device offers analog, PWM and CAN Bus outputs. DAPS technology is suitable for use in automotive stability control systems where accurate steering position information is needed.

According to Dan Sparks, VP of the automotive business unit for BI Technologies' electronic components division, the position sensor uses BI's proprietary broadband energy transfer technology which provides accurate position and speed information. "Our DAPS sensors can be programmed by customers at the time of installation to set 'zero degree' positions, and the outputs provide absolute position information with no gaps in the signal, through ±1440° of rotation," said Sparks.

The DAPS steering sensor features 12bit resolution over the full 360° of rotation with absolute position output available up to ±1440°, and a life cycle of at least 2.5 million rotations. The sensor can be integrated with BI Technologies' Magnetorque sensing technology for compliant shaft applications that require torque sensing.

The steering sensor has an accuracy of ±0.40 percent and a resolution of 0.1°. Typical operating voltage is 5V, with 12V operation available, and operating temperature range is -40°C to 125°C. BI Technologies will also produce custom package sizes to meet customer requirements.