Patent ID: 8008910
Filing Date: 2011-08-30
Classification: E05F,E05Y

Abstract:
1. A position sensor assembly for sensing movement of a drive mechanism, the drive mechanism including an elongated strut having a first end connector pivotably affixed to a frame remote from the drive mechanism and a second end connector pivotably affixed to a movable panel supported on the frame, wherein at least one of the strut connectors includes a fixed portion attached to the frame and a movable portion attached to the strut, the position sensor assembly comprising: a stator portion adapted for connection to the fixed connector portion; a rotor portion moveable in response to rotation of the movable connector portion about an axis between first and second different connector portion positions, the stator portion supporting a galvanomagnetic sensing element; an idler supported on the stator portion and moveable relative to each of the first end connector and the rotor portion, the idler including an idler gear, the idler supporting a magnet juxtaposed in substantially axial alignment with the galvanomagnetic sensing element when the movable connector portion is in each of the first and second positions for magnetic interaction therewith, the galvanomagnetic sensing element generating a sensor output signal indicative of the relative angular position of the movable and fixed connector portions; the rotor portion comprising a yoke affixed to and movable with the strut, the yoke having a yoke gear integrally formed with the yoke and including a plurality of radially outwardly directed gear teeth; and wherein the stator portion nestingly receives an integral communication assembly including the sensing element, a communication link, and a printed circuit board, and wherein the yoke gear continuously engages the idler gear teeth to magnify the rotation of the idler gear and the magnet.