Novel solution for flexible inductive position sensor

Abstract

In this paper a novel solution for inductive linear position sensor fabricated in flexible electronic technology is presented. Nonsymmetrical meander inductor design was proposed aiming towards enhanced utilization of occupied space compared to sensor's stroke. Pliable polyimide used as a substrate material enables higher values of inductance, when bent in optimal direction, thus improved selectivity, compared with rigid inductors with the same geometry. Sensor performance was predicted through electromagnetic simulations, and afterwards fabricated prototype showed good agreement with simulated values. The final device exhibits advantages of low cost, light weight, adjustable stroke and sensitivity, good stroke-to-length ratio, high operating temperature ranges as well as an absence of mechanical contact which extends its lifetime and eliminates most of the problems due to the wear-out. Copyright © 2013 American Scientific Publishers All rights reserved Printed in the United States of America.