What is the detection method of the electromagnetic pulse type crank position sensor?

* Question

What is the detection method of the electromagnetic pulse type crank position sensor?

* Answer

Detection Method of Electromagnetic Pulse Type Crank Position Sensor

An electromagnetic pulse type crank position sensor (also called a variable reluctance sensor (VRS) or magnetic pickup sensor) detects the rotational position and speed of a crankshaft using electromagnetic induction. This type of sensor is commonly used in internal combustion engines for ignition timing and fuel injection control.

Detection Principle

Magnetic Field Generation

1. The sensor consists of a permanent magnet, a coil winding, and a soft iron core.
2. The permanent magnetproduces a magnetic field around the coil.

Reluctance Variation & Induced Voltage

1. A toothed reluctor wheel (trigger wheel)is attached to the crankshaft and rotates past the sensor.
2. As each tooth approaches and passes the sensor, it changes the magnetic fluxthrough the coil.
3. This change in magnetic flux induces a voltage pulsein the coil based on Faraday’s Law of Electromagnetic Induction.

Generating a Sinusoidal Signal

1. When a toothapproaches the sensor, the magnetic field strengthens, causing a positive voltage spike.
2. When the tooth alignswith the sensor, the voltage momentarily stabilizes.
3. As the tooth moves away, the magnetic field weakens, producing a negative voltage spike.
4. This results in an AC sine wave signalwhose frequency corresponds to the crankshaft’s rotational speed.

Signal Processing & Use

• The Engine Control Unit (ECU)processes the AC signal to determine:

• Crankshaft Position– By identifying specific reference points (e.g., missing teeth).
• Engine Speed (RPM)– The frequency of the AC signal correlates with rotational speed.
• Ignition & Fuel Timing– The ECU synchronizes ignition and fuel injection with crankshaft rotation.

Advantages of Electromagnetic Pulse Type Sensors

✔ No External Power Required – Self-generating AC signal.
✔ High Durability – Works well in harsh environments (dust, oil, heat).
✔ Reliable at High Speeds – Effective in high-RPM applications.

Limitations

❌ Signal Weak at Low Speeds – Induced voltage is low when the crankshaft turns slowly.
❌ Susceptible to Interference – External magnetic fields or nearby electrical noise can affect accuracy.
❌ Requires Precise Alignment – Improper gap between the sensor and reluctor wheel can lead to weak signals or misfires.

Comparison with Hall Effect Crank Sensors

Applications

• Found in older and modern internal combustion engines(used for ignition and fuel injection).
• Common in automotive, motorcycles, aircraft engines, and industrial machinery.

This type of crank position sensor remains popular due to its simplicity, durability, and effectiveness in high-speed applications.