Patent Description:
A magnetic field may be produced by a magnetic particle or object (such as a magnet), and/or an electric current. For example, a current-carrying wire (such as a power transmission line) may produce a magnetic field around the wire. Certain sensor configurations may create one or more magnetic fields, and/or may monitor one or more magnetic fields to detect and/or measure one or more desired physical and/or electrical parameters.

However, existing devices and systems do not overcome many technical challenges and difficulties associated with magnetic field sensing. For example, magnetic sensors may be exposed to both a target magnetic field and one or more stray magnetic fields operating as sources of magnetic field interference. A "target magnetic field" is a magnetic field desired to be monitored by a sensor. For example, a target magnetic field may be generated by a magnet within a device. A "stray magnetic field" is a magnetic field causing interference with the target magnetic field and may be detected by a sensor. For example, a stray magnetic field may be created by a magnet or power transmission line that is external to, but near, a device incorporating the sensor.

Existing devices fail to distinguish the stray magnetic fields from the target magnetic field. Thus, a need exists for systems and methods for distinguishing between target magnetic fields and stray magnetic fields.

<CIT> describes the creation of a position sensor and a position sensor arrangement on the basis of magnetic field sensing sensors maximizing reliability against defects and external interference signals and providing redundancy, in particular for shift-by-wire systems in automobiles.

<CIT> describes a magnetic angle sensor device and a method for operating such device.

<CIT> describes a system and method for assessing interference to a signal caused by magnetic field.

The invention is defined in the independent claims, to which reference should now be made. Advantageous features are set out in the sub claims. Various embodiments described herein relate to methods, apparatuses, and systems for providing magnetic field sensing. In particular, various embodiments are related to detecting stray magnetic field.

In accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, an example apparatus is provided. The example apparatus may comprise a first magnetic sensor element, a second magnetic sensor element, and a processor element electronically coupled to the first magnetic sensor element and the second magnetic sensor element. In some examples, the first magnetic sensor element may be at a first position relative to a magnetic field source to detect a target magnetic field emitted by the magnetic field source. In some examples, the second magnetic sensor element may be at a second position relative to the magnetic field source to detect the target magnetic field emitted by the magnetic field source. In some examples, the processor element may be configured to: receive a first output from the first magnetic sensor element, receive a second output from the second magnetic sensor element, and detect the stray magnetic field interfering with the target magnetic field by: calculating an output deviation between the first output and the second output; and determining whether the output deviation satisfies a deviation criteria.

In some examples, the first magnetic sensor element may comprise a first anisotropic magnetoresistive sensing member. In some examples, the second magnetic sensor element may comprise a second anisotropic magnetoresistive sensing member.

In some examples, the magnetic field source may comprise a magnetic element. In some examples, the magnetic element may be a ring magnet comprising at least a first pole and a second pole.

In examples covered by the present invention, the first magnetic sensor element, the second magnetic sensor element, and the processor element are contained in the same integrated circuit.

In some examples, in response to detecting the stray magnetic field, the processor element is further configured to disable position outputs associated with the apparatus.

In some examples, the first magnetic sensor element may be aligned with a first radius of the magnetic element, and the second magnetic sensor element may be aligned with a second radius of the magnetic element. In some examples, the first radius may be positioned forty-five degrees apart from the second radius.

In some examples, the first magnetic sensor element and the second magnetic sensor element may be integrated in a first magnetic sensor package. In some examples, when detecting the stray magnetic field, the processor element may be configured to further: determine a phase separation based at least in part on the first position associated with the first magnetic sensor element and the second position associated with the second magnetic sensor element, calculate an output deviation between the first output and the second output, and determine whether the output deviation satisfies a deviation criterion, wherein the deviation criterion may be based at least in part on the phase separation.

In some examples, the example apparatus may further comprise a third magnetic sensor element integrated in the first magnetic sensor package. In some examples, the processor element may be configured to further receive a third output from the third magnetic sensor element. In some examples, detecting the stray magnetic field may be further based on the third output. In some examples, the first magnetic sensor element, the second magnetic sensor element, the third magnetic sensor element, and the processor element are contained in the same integrated circuit.

In accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, an example method for detecting a stray magnetic field is provided. The example method may comprise receiving a first output from a first magnetic sensor element, receiving a second output from a second magnetic sensor element, calculating an output deviation between the first output and the second output; and detecting the stray magnetic field interfering with the target magnetic field by determining whether the output deviation satisfies a deviation criteria. In some examples, the first magnetic sensor element may be at a first position relative to a magnetic field source to detect a target magnetic field emitted by the magnetic field source. In some examples, the second magnetic sensor element may be at a second position relative to the magnetic field source to detect the target magnetic field emitted by the magnetic field source.

In accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, an example computer program product is provided. The example computer program product comprises at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer-readable program code portions stored therein, the computer-readable program code portions comprising an executable portion configured to: receive a first output from a first magnetic sensor element, receive a second output from a second magnetic sensor element, and detect the stray magnetic field interfering with the target magnetic field based at least in part on the first output and the second output. In some examples, the first magnetic sensor element may be at a first position relative to a magnetic field source to detect a target magnetic field emitted by the magnetic field source. In some examples, the second magnetic sensor element may be at a second position relative to the magnetic field source to detect the target magnetic field emitted by the magnetic field source.

The phrases "in one embodiment," "according to one embodiment," "in some examples," and the like generally mean that the particular feature, structure, or characteristic following the phrase may be included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, and may be included in more than one embodiment of the present disclosure (importantly, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment).

If the specification states a component or feature "may," "can," "could," "should," "would," "preferably," "possibly," "typically," "optionally," "for example," "often," or "might" (or other such language) be included or have a characteristic, that specific component or feature is not required to be included or to have the characteristic.

The term "electronically coupled" in the present disclosure refers to two or more components (for example but not limited to, magnetic sensor element(s), processor element(s), speaker element(s), light-emitting diode (LED) element(s), vibrator element(s)) and/or electric circuit(s) being connected through wired means (for example but not limited to, conductive wires or traces) and/or wireless means (for example but not limited to, electromagnetic field), such that data and/or information may be transmitted to and/or received from the components that are electronically coupled.

In some examples, a position sensor may include a magnet, and may measure absolute positions or relative displacements based on the detected properties of the magnetic field. In some examples, a power tool (such as, but not limited to, a drill) may incorporate magnetic sensing solutions for turning on/off the tool and adjusting tool operations (such as, but not limited to, changing the motor speed of the drill).

As described above, existing devices and systems do not overcome many technical challenges and difficulties associated with magnetic field sensing, and are plagued by many limitations. In contrast, example methods, systems, and apparatuses in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure may be effective in detecting stray magnetic field(s) (that a device is exposed to) by, for example, disposing two or more magnetic sensor elements on or around a target magnetic field source (e.g., a magnet of the device). Based on the detected stray magnetic field(s), example methods, systems, and apparatuses in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure may further perform an applicable process (or prevent the occurrence of an applicable process). For example, various systems may prevent undesired actuation of the device due to the detected stray magnetic field.

Referring now to <FIG>, an example apparatus in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In the example embodiment as shown in <FIG>, the example apparatus may comprise a first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and a second magnetic sensor element <NUM>. In some examples, the example apparatus may further comprise a processor element that is electronically coupled to the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM>, example details of which are described and illustrated in at least <FIG> of the present disclosure.

The term "magnetic sensor element" in the present disclosure refers to an electronic component or device that may be configured to detect and/or measure magnetic field. In examples covered by the present invention, a magnetic sensor element comprises an anisotropic magnetoresistive (AMR) sensing member. The AMR sensing member may comprise ferromagnetic material(s), such as, but not limited to, ferromagnetic alloys. In some examples, the electrical resistance of such material(s) may correlate to the angle between the direction of the electric current in such material(s) and the direction of the detected magnetic field. As such, the AMR sensing member may generate an output that indicates the detected magnetic field.

For example, <FIG> illustrates an example block diagram of the first magnetic sensor element <NUM>. In the embodiment as shown in <FIG>, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> may comprise four (<NUM>) AMR sensing members, i.e. AMR sensing members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, which may be disposed on, for example, a silicon die.

In some examples, each of the AMR sensing members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may comprise a plurality of connected AMR sensing bars. For example, the AMR sensing members <NUM> as shown in <FIG> may comprise six (<NUM>) parallel AMR sensing bars. In some examples, an AMR sensing member may comprise less than six or more than six AMR sensing bars, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

In some examples, each of the AMR sensing bars in the same AMR sensing member may be connected (e.g., in series) with neighboring AMR sensing bars, and may carry the same electric current that travels in the same direction. As described above, the electrical resistance of AMR sensing bars may correlate to the angle between the direction of the electric current and the direction of the detected magnetic field. Because each AMR sensing bar within the same AMR sensing member is parallel to each other, a change of electrical resistance of the AMR sensing member may indicate a change in the detected magnetic field.

In examples covered by the present invention, one of the AMR sensing members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may be in a perpendicular arrangement with another AMR sensing member. For example, the AMR sensing member <NUM> may be in a perpendicular arrangement with the AMR sensing member <NUM> and/or with AMR sensing member <NUM>. Additionally, or alternatively, the AMR sensing member <NUM> may be in a perpendicular arrangement with the AMR sensing member <NUM> and/or with AMR sensing member <NUM>. In some examples, the perpendicular arrangements of these AMR sensing members may improve sensitivity and/or accuracy in detecting magnetic field.

In some examples, the AMR sensing members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may be connected through a bridge circuit, such as, but not limited to, a Wheatstone bridge. For example, two of the AMR sensing members may be connected on one arm of the Wheatstone bridge, and the other two may be connected on the other arm of the Wheatstone bridge.

As another example, <FIG> illustrates an example block diagram of the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. Similar to the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> as described in connection with <FIG>, the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> as shown in <FIG> may comprise four (<NUM>) AMR sensing members, i.e. AMR sensing members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, which may be disposed on, for example, a silicon die.

Additionally, or alternatively, similar to the AMR sensing members as described in connection with <FIG>, each of the AMR sensing members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may comprise a plurality of connected AMR sensing bars. Additionally, or alternatively, the AMR sensing members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> may be connected through a bridge circuit, such as, but not limited to, a Wheatstone bridge, similar to those described above in connection with <FIG>.

While the example embodiment as illustrated in <FIG> shows that each of the AMR sensing bars is in a forty-five-degree (<NUM>°) arrangement with one of the edges of the first magnetic sensor element <NUM>, and that the example embodiment as illustrated in <FIG> shows that each of the AMR sensing bars is at a perpendicular arrangement with one of the edges of the second magnetic sensor element <NUM>, it is noted that the scope of the present disclosure includes the AMR sensing bars being arranged at other angle(s) with one of the edges of the magnetic sensor element.

Referring back to <FIG>, in accordance with various examples of the present disclosure, each of the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be at a position relative to a magnetic field source to detect a target magnetic field emitted by the magnetic field source. For example, in the embodiment as shown in <FIG>, the magnetic field source may comprise a magnetic element <NUM>. In some examples, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be at a first position relative to the magnetic field source (i.e. the magnetic element <NUM>) to detect the target magnetic field emitted by the magnetic field source (i.e. the magnetic element <NUM>). In some examples, the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be at a second position relative to the magnetic field source (i.e. the magnetic element <NUM>) to detect the target magnetic field emitted by the magnetic field source (i.e. the magnetic element <NUM>).

In some examples, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be positioned on or around the magnetic element <NUM> so that, for example, the target magnetic field emitted by the magnetic element <NUM> may cause the same or similar effects on the electrical quantities of the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> (example details of which are described and illustrated in connection with at least <FIG>).

In examples covered by the present invention, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be in a forty-five-degree (<NUM>°) arrangement to the second magnetic sensor element <NUM>, relative to the magnetic element <NUM>, while enabling the magnetic element <NUM> to move (e.g., rotate relative to the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM>. For example, a centerline of the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be aligned with a first radius extending away from a center axis of the magnetic element <NUM>, and a centerline of the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be aligned with a second radius extending away from a center axis of the magnetic element <NUM>. The first radius may be positioned forty-five degrees apart from the second radius. Because of their different orientations, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be affected differently by a stray magnetic field (example details of which are described and illustrated in connection with at least <FIG>), thereby enabling detection of the stray magnetic field by detecting differences in the outputs generated by the first magnetic sensor <NUM> and second magnetic sensor <NUM>, respectively.

Additionally, or alternatively, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and/or the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be positioned around the magnetic element <NUM> and spaced apart from the magnetic element <NUM>. In some examples, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and/or the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be secured at a position relative to the center of the magnetic element <NUM>. For example, an example apparatus may comprise a cover member that houses the magnetic element <NUM>, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM>, and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM>. In such an example, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and/or the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be secured on an inner surface of the cover member.

Additionally, or alternatively, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and/or the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be positioned on the rotation axis of the magnetic element <NUM>.

Additionally, or alternatively, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be arranged in other orientations, without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

In the embodiment as shown in <FIG>, the magnetic element <NUM> may be a two-pole ring magnet that comprises at least a first pole and a second pole. Additionally, or alternatively, a magnetic sensor element of the present disclosure may be in other suitable form(s) such as, but not limited to, a multipole ring magnet having greater than two poles, example details of which are illustrated and described at least in connection with <FIG> and <FIG>.

The embodiment as illustrated in <FIG> shows two magnetic sensor elements, i.e. the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM>. It is noted that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to only two magnetic sensor elements, and example apparatuses of the present disclosure may include more than two magnetic sensor elements.

Referring now to <FIG>, an example circuit diagram illustrating various electronic elements of an example apparatus in accordance with the present disclosure is shown. For example, the example apparatus may comprise a processor element <NUM> that is electronically coupled to the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM>. The electronic elements may be powered by a voltage source VSUPPLY.

In examples covered by the present invention, the first magnetic sensor element, the second magnetic sensor element, and the processor element may be contained in the same integrated circuit. For example, in the example embodiment as shown in <FIG>, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM>, the second magnetic sensor element <NUM>, and the processor element <NUM> may be contained in the same integrated circuit.

In some examples, the processor element <NUM> may be in the form of, for example but not limited to, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a central processing unit (CPU). In some examples, the processor element <NUM> may be in other suitable form(s) without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

In some examples, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be similar to the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>. In some examples, the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be similar to the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>.

Further, as shown in <FIG>, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> may generate and transmit a first output to the processor element <NUM>, and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> may generate and transmit a second output to the processor element <NUM>. The first output and the second output may be indicative of one or more properties of the detected magnetic field. Examples of first output and second output are described and illustrated in at least <FIG>, <FIG> of the present disclosure.

While the embodiment as illustrated in <FIG> shows that the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> may generate differential outputs (i.e. VOUT + and VOUT -), it is noted that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to differential outputs. For example, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and/or the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> may generate a single-ended output.

Referring back to <FIG>, the processor element <NUM> may receive the first output from the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second output from the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> through one or more General Purpose Input/output (GPIO) pins. The processor element <NUM> may determine whether there is a stray magnetic field based at least in part on the first output and the second output, example details of which are described and illustrated at least in connection with <FIG> below.

In some examples, an example apparatus in accordance with the present disclosure may optionally comprise one or more additional electronic elements, including, for example, speaker element(s), light-emitting diode (LED) element(s), and/or vibrator element(s). In some examples, the processor element <NUM> may be electronically coupled to the speaker element(s), light-emitting diode (LED) element(s), and/or vibrator element(s).

In some examples, the speaker element(s) may be configured to output audio alerts (for example, an alarm sound and/or a pre-recorded audio message). In some examples, the light-emitting diode (LED) element(s) may be configured to output a visual alert (for example, a flashing light and/or a red light). In some examples, the vibrator element(s) may be configured to output a vibration.

Referring now to <FIG>, <FIG>, various example output diagrams of example apparatuses of the present disclosure (for example, example apparatuses as described above in connection with <FIG>, and <FIG>) are illustrated.

In particular, <FIG> illustrates example effects that a target magnetic field may have on the outputs of the magnetic sensor elements. <FIG> illustrates example effects that a stray magnetic field may have on the outputs of the magnetic sensor elements. <FIG> illustrates example effects that a target magnetic field together with a stray magnetic field may have on the outputs of the magnetic sensor elements. As described above, an example apparatus may comprise a first magnetic sensor element and a second magnetic sensor element (for example, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM>, respectively, described above in connection with <FIG>) that are disposed on a magnetic element (for example, the magnetic element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>). The first magnetic sensor element may generate a first output based on the detected magnetic field, and the second magnetic sensor element may generate a second output based on the detected magnetic field.

<FIG> illustrates example first outputs and example second outputs when only a target magnetic field is detected by the first magnetic sensor element and the second magnetic sensor element. As described above, the target magnetic field (for example, produced by the magnetic element <NUM> as described above in connection with <FIG>) may cause the same or similar effects on the electrical quantities of the first magnetic sensor element and the second magnetic sensor element. Such that the relationship between the output of the first magnetic sensor element and the second magnetic sensor element are at a predictable phase difference. In some examples, first outputs may overlap or substantially overlap with second outputs, as shown in <FIG>, such that the predictable phase difference between the output of the first magnetic sensor and the output of the second magnetic sensor is at least substantially zero. In some examples, first outputs may be at a non-zero phase separation from second outputs (example details of which are described and illustrated in connection with at least <FIG>).

<FIG> illustrates example first outputs and example second outputs when only a stray magnetic field is detected by the first magnetic sensor element and the second magnetic sensor element. As described above, because the first magnetic sensor element and the second magnetic sensor element may have different orientations relative to the source of the stray magnetic field, the stray magnetic field may affect the first magnetic sensor element and the second magnetic sensor element differently. As such, the processor element <NUM> may detect a phase deviation between the first outputs and the second outputs, as shown in <FIG>. For example, the stray magnetic field may cause the outputs of one of the first magnetic sensor element and/or the second magnetic sensor element to change (relative to the output when no stray magnetic field is present), thereby causing a phase deviation characterized by a change in the phase difference between the output of the first magnetic sensor and the second magnetic sensor such that the phase difference no longer equals the predictable phase difference that is characteristic of the output of the first magnetic sensor and the second magnetic sensor when no stray magnetic field is present.

<FIG> illustrates example first outputs and example second outputs when both a target magnetic field and a stray magnetic field are present. In other words, the example outputs as shown in <FIG> may show that there is a stray magnetic field interfering with the target magnetic field. Even though the target magnetic field may cause the same or similar effects on the electrical quantities of the first magnetic sensor element and the second magnetic sensor element, because of the stray magnetic field, there may be a phase deviation between the first outputs and the second outputs, as shown in <FIG>.

Referring now to <FIG>, example methods in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated.

In the present disclosure, including, but not limited to, <FIG> and <FIG>, each block of the flowchart, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart, may be implemented by various means such as hardware, firmware, circuitry and/or other devices associated with execution of software including one or more computer program instructions.

In some examples, one or more of the procedures described in, including, but not limited to, <FIG> and <FIG>, may be embodied by computer program instructions, which may be stored by a memory circuitry (such as a non-transitory memory) of an apparatus employing an embodiment of the present disclosure and executed by a processing circuitry (such as a processor element) of the apparatus. These computer program instructions may direct the apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the memory circuitry produce an article of manufacture, the execution of which implements the function specified in the flowchart block(s). Further, the apparatus may comprise one or more other components, such as, for example, one or more magnetic sensor elements described above in connection with <FIG>. Various components of the apparatus may be in electronic communication between and/or among each other to transmit data to and/or receive data from each other.

In some examples, embodiments may take the form of a computer program product on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing computer-readable program instructions (e.g. computer software). Any suitable computer-readable storage medium may be utilized, including non-transitory hard disks, CD-ROMs, flash memory, optical storage devices, or magnetic storage devices.

Referring back to <FIG>, an example method <NUM> in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated. In particular, the example method <NUM> illustrates example embodiments of detecting stray magnetic field. In some examples, the method <NUM> may be performed by a processing circuitry (for example, the processor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>).

At block <NUM>, a processing circuitry (an example covered by the present invention is the processor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>) receives a first output from a first magnetic sensor element (for example, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>). In some examples, the first output may be in an analog form. In such examples, the processing circuitry may convert the first output to a digital form.

At block <NUM>, a processing circuitry (an example covered by the present invention is the processor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>) receives a second output from the second magnetic sensor element (for example, the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>). In some examples, the second output may be in an analog form. In such examples, the processing circuitry may convert the second output to a digital form.

In accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, the processing element detects the stray magnetic field interfering with the target magnetic field based at least in part on the first output and the second output. At block <NUM>, the processing element calculates an output deviation between the first output and the second output, and determines whether the output deviation satisfies an applicable deviation criterion or criteria, which may be utilized to identify the presence of a stray magnetic field.

As described above (for example, at least in connection with <FIG>), the stray magnetic field may affect outputs of the first magnetic sensor element and the second magnetic sensor element differently due to the different orientations of these magnetic sensor elements. As such, the output deviation may indicate the existence of a stray magnetic field.

In some examples, the output deviation may correspond to a phase deviation between the first output and the second output (for example, as shown in <FIG>). Additionally, or alternatively, the output deviation may correspond to other difference(s) between the first output and the second output (for example, an amplitude difference).

In some examples, the applicable deviation criterion or criteria may be embodied as a deviation threshold, such that a determination that the output deviation between the first output and the second output meets or exceeds the deviation threshold is indicative of the presence of a stray magnetic field. For example, when the output deviation exceeds the value of the deviation threshold, the processing circuitry may determine that the applicable deviation criterion or criteria are satisfied. In some examples, a deviation threshold may be set based at least in part on suitable parameter(s) (for example, the sensitivity and/or resolution of the first magnetic sensor element and/or the second magnetic sensor element). In some examples, using an applicable deviation criterion or criteria (e.g., a deviation threshold) may mitigate the risk of false positive detections of stray magnetic fields.

In some examples, the applicable deviation criterion or criteria may be embodied as a determination of whether the value of the output deviation is different from an applicable value (e.g., zero). For example, when the value of the output deviation is different from zero (i.e. there is a difference between the first output and the second output), the processing circuitry may determine that the applicable deviation criterion or criteria are satisfied (i.e. there is a stray magnetic field). When the output deviation equals to zero (i.e. there is no difference between the first output and the second output), the processing circuitry may determine that the applicable deviation criterion or criteria are not satisfied (i.e. there is no stray magnetic field).

In response to determining that the applicable deviation criterion or criteria are not satisfied, a processing circuitry (for example, the processor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>) may proceed to block <NUM>, and may determine that there is no stray magnetic field.

In some examples, subsequent to determining that there is no stray magnetic field, the first magnetic sensor element and/or the second magnetic sensor element may monitor the target magnetic field (for example, changes within the target magnetic field), which may be indicative of changes in the positioning (for example, angular positioning) of the magnetic element.

In response to determining that the applicable deviation criterion or criteria are satisfied, a processing circuitry (for example, the processor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>) may proceed to block <NUM>, and may determine that a stray magnetic field is detected by the one or more sensor elements.

In some examples, the processing circuitry may trigger a warning alert in response to determining that a stray magnetic field is detected by the sensor elements. For example, the processing circuitry may cause an example speaker element to output an audio alert, an example light-emitting diode (LED) element to output a visual alert, and/or an example vibrator element to output a vibration.

Additionally, or alternatively, in response to detecting the stray magnetic field, the processor circuitry may be further configured to disable position outputs associated with the apparatus. For example, the apparatus may be configured to generate position outputs based on the first output and/or the second output, and the position outputs may indicate absolute positions or relative displacements of a target object. When the processing circuitry determines that there is a stray magnetic field (that may interfere with the target magnetic field), the processing circuitry may disable the position outputs to, for example, prevent undesired actuation of a device as described above. In some examples, the processing circuitry may disable the position outputs by preventing the position outputs from being utilized to trigger an applicable operation. In some examples, the processing circuitry may generate and transmit a warning output that may indicate, for example, the accuracy of the position detected by the position sensor may be affected by a stray magnetic field.

Referring now to <FIG>, an example apparatus in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In the example embodiment as shown in <FIG>, the example apparatus may comprise a first magnetic sensor package <NUM>, which may be disposed on and/or proximate a magnetic element <NUM>. In some examples, the example apparatus may further comprise a processor element that is electronically coupled to the first magnetic sensor package <NUM>, example details of which are described and illustrated in at least <FIG> of the present disclosure.

In some examples, the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> may comprise a first magnetic sensor element and a second magnetic sensor element that are integrated within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM>. For example, <FIG> illustrates an example block diagram of the first magnetic sensor package <NUM>. In the embodiment as shown in <FIG>, the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> may comprise a first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and a second magnetic sensor element <NUM>.

In some examples, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be similar to the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>. In some examples, the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be similar to the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>. For example, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> may generate a first output, and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> may generate a second output.

Referring now to <FIG>, an example circuit diagram illustrating various electronic elements of an example apparatus in accordance with the present disclosure is shown. For example, the example apparatus may comprise a processor element <NUM> that is electronically coupled to the first magnetic sensor package <NUM>. The electronic elements may be powered by a voltage source VSUPPLY.

In some examples, the first magnetic sensor package and the processor element may be contained in the same integrated circuit. For example, in the example embodiment as shown in <FIG>, the first magnetic sensor element and the second magnetic sensor element (which are integrated within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM>) may be contained in the same integrated circuit as the processor element <NUM>.

Similar to the processor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>, the processor element <NUM> may be in the form of, for example but not limited to, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a central processing unit (CPU). In some examples, the processor element <NUM> may be in other suitable form(s) without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

In some examples, the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> may be similar to the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>. The first magnetic sensor package <NUM> may generate and transmit outputs to the processor element <NUM>. For example, a first magnetic sensor element within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> may generate and transmit a first output to the processor element <NUM>, and a second magnetic sensor element within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> may generate and transmit a second output to the processor element <NUM>. Examples of first output and second output are described and illustrated in at least <FIG>, <FIG> of the present disclosure.

While the embodiment as illustrated in <FIG> shows differential outputs (i.e. VOUT + and VOUT -), it is noted that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to differential outputs. For example, the first magnetic sensor element and/or the second magnetic sensor element within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> may generate a single-ended output.

Additionally, or alternatively, the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> may generate and transmit an output that indicates whether there is a stray magnetic field, based on, for example, example methods described in connection with at least <FIG> above and/or <FIG> below.

Additionally, or alternatively, the processor element <NUM> may receive outputs from first magnetic sensor package <NUM> through one or more General Purpose Input/output (GPIO) pins, and may determine whether there is a stray magnetic field based on the outputs, example details of which are described and illustrated in connection with at least <FIG> below.

In particular, <FIG> illustrates example effects that a target magnetic field may have on the outputs of magnetic sensor elements within a magnetic sensor package (for example, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>). In some examples, the first magnetic sensor element and the second magnetic sensor element within the magnetic sensor package may not be in a forty-five-degree (<NUM>°) arrangement with each other (in comparison with the example arrangement of the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>). As such, there may be a phase separation between the first output and the second output (even when there is no stray magnetic field) as shown in <FIG>. In some examples, the phase separation may be determined based at least in part on a first position associated with the first magnetic sensor element of the magnetic sensor package and the second position associated with the second magnetic sensor element of the magnetic sensor package (example details of which are described and illustrated in connection with at least <FIG>).

<FIG> illustrates example effects that a stray magnetic field may have on the outputs of magnetic sensor elements within a magnetic sensor package (for example, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>). As shown in <FIG>, the stray magnetic field may affect the first outputs and the second outputs differently, creating a deviation between the first outputs and the second outputs.

<FIG> illustrates example effects that a target magnetic field together with a stray magnetic field may have on the outputs of magnetic sensor elements within a magnetic sensor package (for example, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>).

Referring now to <FIG>, example methods in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated. In particular, the example method <NUM> illustrates example embodiments of detecting stray magnetic field. In some examples, the method <NUM> may be performed by a processing circuitry (for example, the processor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>).

At block <NUM>, a processing circuitry (for example, the processor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>) may determine a phase separation associated with the first magnetic sensor element and the second magnetic sensor element of a first magnetic sensor package (for example, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>).

As shown in <FIG>, the phase separation may correspond to the output difference between the first magnetic sensor element and the second magnetic sensor element caused by a target magnetic field. In some examples, the processing circuitry may calculate the phase separation based on the position difference (e.g. angular difference) between the first position of the first magnetic sensor element and the second position of the second magnetic sensor element. Because the first magnetic sensor element and the second magnetic sensor element are integrated within the first magnetic sensor package, the position difference between the first position and the second position may remain unchanged. In other words, the phase separation may remain unchanged. In some examples, the processing circuitry may store the value of the phase separation in a memory circuitry that is electronically coupled to the processing circuitry.

At block <NUM>, a processing circuitry (for example, the processor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>) may receive a first output from a first magnetic sensor element within the first magnetic sensor package (for example, from the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>).

At block <NUM>, a processing circuitry (for example, the processor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>) may receive a second output from a second magnetic sensor element within the first magnetic sensor package (for example, from the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>).

At block <NUM>, a processing circuitry (for example, the processor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>) may calculate an output deviation between the first output and the second output, and may determine whether the output deviation satisfies an applicable deviation criterion or criteria.

In some examples, the deviation criterion or criteria may be determined based on the phase separation calculated at block <NUM>. As described above, the phase separation may be caused by a target magnetic field. In some examples, the applicable deviation criterion or criteria may be embodied as a determination of whether the value of the output deviation is different from the phase separation. For example, when the output deviation is the same as the phase separation (i.e. the output deviation is only caused by the target magnetic field), the processing circuitry may determine that the deviation criterion or criteria are not satisfied i(i.e. there is no stray magnetic field). When the output deviation is different from the phase separation i(i.e. the output deviation is at least partially caused by the stray magnetic field), the processing circuitry may determine that the deviation criterion or criteria are satisfied (i.e. there is a stray magnetic field).

Additionally, or alternatively, the processing circuitry may set the deviation criterion or criteria based on other suitable parameters or thresholds, such as those described above in connection with block <NUM> of <FIG>.

In response to determining that the applicable deviation criterion or criteria are not satisfied, a processing circuitry (for example, the processor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>) may proceed to block <NUM>, and may determine that there is no stray magnetic field, similar to block <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>.

In response to determining that the applicable deviation criterion or criteria are satisfied, a processing circuitry (for example, the processor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>) may proceed to block <NUM>, and may determine that there is a stray magnetic field, similar to block <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>.

For example, in response to detecting the stray magnetic field, the processor circuitry may be further configured to disable position outputs associated with the apparatus. The apparatus may be configured to generate position outputs based on the first output and/or the second output, and the position outputs may indicate absolute positions or relative displacements of a target object. When the processing circuitry determines that there is a stray magnetic field (that may interfere with the target magnetic field), the processing circuitry may disable the position outputs to, for example, prevent undesired actuation of a device as described above.

Referring now to <FIG>, an example apparatus in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. In the example embodiment as shown in <FIG>, the example apparatus may comprise a first magnetic sensor package <NUM>, which may be disposed on and/or proximate a magnetic element <NUM>. In some examples, the example apparatus may further comprise a processor element that is electronically coupled to the first magnetic sensor package <NUM>, similar to those described above in connection with at least <FIG>.

In some examples, the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> may comprise a first magnetic sensor element, a second magnetic sensor element, and a third magnetic sensor element that are integrated within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM>. For example, <FIG> illustrates an example block diagram of the first magnetic sensor package <NUM>. In the embodiment as shown in <FIG>, the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> may comprise a first magnetic sensor element <NUM>, a second magnetic sensor element <NUM>, and a third magnetic sensor element <NUM>. In some examples, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM>, the second magnetic sensor element <NUM>, the third magnetic sensor element <NUM>, and the processor element may be contained in the same integrated circuit, similar to those described above in connection with <FIG> and/or <FIG>.

In some examples, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM>, the second magnetic sensor element <NUM>, and/or the third magnetic sensor element <NUM> may be similar to the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG> and/or the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>. For example, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> may generate a first output, the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> may generate a second output, and the third magnetic sensor element <NUM> may generate a third output.

Referring now to <FIG>, various example output diagrams of example apparatuses of the present disclosure (for example, example apparatuses as described above in connection with <FIG>) are illustrated.

In particular, <FIG> illustrates example effects that a target magnetic field may have on the outputs of magnetic sensor elements within a magnetic sensor package (for example, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM>, the second magnetic sensor element <NUM>, and the third magnetic sensor element <NUM> within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>). In some examples, the first magnetic sensor element, the second magnetic sensor element, and the third magnetic sensor element within the magnetic sensor package may not be in a forty-five-degree (<NUM>°) arrangement with one other (in comparison with the example arrangement of the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>). As such, there may be phase separations between the first output, the second output, and the third output.

<FIG> illustrates example effects that a target magnetic field together with a stray magnetic field may have on the outputs of magnetic sensor elements within a magnetic sensor package (for example, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM>, the second magnetic sensor element <NUM>, and the third magnetic sensor element <NUM> within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>).

In some examples, a processor element may determine whether there is a stray magnetic field based on the first output, the second output, and the third output. For example, the processor element may calculate a first output deviation between the first output and the second output, and/or a second output deviation between the second output and the third output, and/or a third output deviation between the first output and the third output. To detect the stray magnetic field, the processor element may determine whether the first output deviation and/or the second output deviation and/or the third output deviation satisfies one or more applicable deviation criteria, similar to those described above in connection with at least <FIG> and/or <FIG>.

In comparison with the magnetic element <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>, the magnetic element <NUM> of <FIG> may be a multipole ring magnet.

Similar to the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>, the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> may comprise a first magnetic sensor element and a second magnetic sensor element that are integrated within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM>. For example, <FIG> illustrates an example block diagram of the first magnetic sensor package <NUM>. In the embodiment as shown in <FIG>, the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> may comprise a first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and a second magnetic sensor element <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG>, and <FIG>, various example output diagrams of example apparatuses of the present disclosure (for example, example apparatuses as described above in connection with <FIG>) are illustrated.

In particular, <FIG> illustrates example effects that a target magnetic field may have on the outputs of the magnetic sensor elements (for example, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>). <FIG> illustrates example effects that a stray magnetic field may have on the outputs of the magnetic sensor elements (for example, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>). <FIG> illustrates example effects that a target magnetic field together with a stray magnetic field may have on the outputs of the magnetic sensor elements (for example, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM> and the second magnetic sensor element <NUM> within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>).

In some examples, a processor element may determine whether there is a stray magnetic field based on the first output and the second output, similar to those described in connection with at least <FIG> and/or <FIG> above.

Similar to the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG>, the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> may comprise a first magnetic sensor element, a second magnetic sensor element, and a third magnetic sensor element that are integrated within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM>. For example, <FIG> illustrates an example block diagram of the first magnetic sensor package <NUM>. In the embodiment as shown in <FIG>, the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> may comprise a first magnetic sensor element <NUM>, a second magnetic sensor element <NUM>, and a third magnetic sensor element <NUM>.

Referring now to <FIG> and <FIG>, various example output diagrams of example apparatuses of the present disclosure (for example, example apparatuses as described above in connection with <FIG> and <FIG>) are illustrated.

In particular, <FIG> illustrates example effects that a target magnetic field may have on the outputs of magnetic sensor elements within a magnetic sensor package (for example, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM>, the second magnetic sensor element <NUM>, and the third magnetic sensor element <NUM> within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG> and <FIG>). <FIG> illustrates example effects that a target magnetic field together with a stray magnetic field may have on the outputs of magnetic sensor elements within a magnetic sensor package (for example, the first magnetic sensor element <NUM>, the second magnetic sensor element <NUM>, and the third magnetic sensor element <NUM> within the first magnetic sensor package <NUM> described above in connection with <FIG> and <FIG>).

In some examples, a processor element may determine whether there is a stray magnetic field based on the first output, the second output, and/or the third output, similar to those described above in connection with at least <FIG>, <FIG>, and/or <FIG>.

Claim 1:
An apparatus for detecting a stray magnetic field, comprising:
a first magnetic sensor element (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) at a first position relative to a magnetic field source to detect a target magnetic field emitted by the magnetic field source (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>);
a second magnetic sensor element (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) at a second position relative to the magnetic field source to detect the target magnetic field emitted by the magnetic field source;
wherein:
the first magnetic sensor element comprises anisotropic magnetoresistive, AMR, members (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), one of the AMR members of the first magnetic sensor element being in a perpendicular arrangement with another AMR member of the first magnetic sensor element;
the second magnetic sensor element comprises AMR members (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>), one of the AMR members of the second magnetic sensor element being in a perpendicular arrangement with another AMR member of the second magnetic sensor element; and
the first magnetic sensor element at the first position is in a <NUM> degree arrangement with respect to the second magnetic sensor element at the second position; and
a processor element (<NUM>, <NUM>) electronically coupled to the first magnetic sensor element and the second magnetic sensor element, wherein the processor element is configured to:
receive a first output from the first magnetic sensor element;
receive a second output from the second magnetic sensor element; and
detect the stray magnetic field interfering with the target magnetic field by:
calculating an output deviation between the first output and the second output; and
determining whether the output deviation satisfies a deviation criterion;
and wherein:
the first magnetic sensor element, the second magnetic sensor element, and the processor element are contained in a same integrated circuit.