Patent ID: 7288933
Filing Date: 2007-10-30
Classification: G01D

Abstract:
1. A system for detecting position that is capable of self-monitoring for connectivity faults, the system comprising: a transformer in which a magnetic member is movably disposed; an excitation potential source coupled to the transformer to apply an excitation potential to the transformer, wherein the application of the excitation potential to the transformer induces at least one induced potential that is dependent on the position of the magnetic member within the transformer; a bias potential source coupled to the transformer to apply a bias potential to the transformer; and a processor that is coupled to the transformer to receive at least one output signal, the at least one output signal including the at least one induced potential, the processor determining the position of the magnetic member based on the at least one induced potential, and the processor detecting connectivity faults within the transformer based on the presence or absence of the bias potential in the output signal.