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A 3 axis magnetic field sensor is used to measure the three-dimensional magnetic field to determine orientation and motion. Such sensors can be found in various devices and applications, including smartphones, compasses, robotics, and augmented reality. Some common types of these three-axis magnetic field sensors include:
Hall Effect Sensors
These sensors are based on Hall's effect and are among the most common magnetic field sensors available. When a magnetic field is applied perpendicularly to the electric flow in a conductor, a voltage is generated across the flow, called Hall voltage. Hall-effect sensors detect 2D/3D magnetic fields, with a simple design and high sensitivity. They measure static and dynamic magnetic fields.
TMR Sensors
Stands for tunneling magnetoresistance. These sensors measure magnetic fields via tunneling electrons between two ferromagnetic layers separated by an insulator. Magnetic flux causes resistance variation in one of the magnetic layers, which modifies the tunneling current. They come with high sensitivity, ultra-low power, and even small magnetic field detection capability. Application areas include oil drilling, medical equipment, and 3d magnetic field sensor module.
MFM and MFS Sensors
MFM means Magnetic Force Microscopy, and MFS means Magnetic Field Sensor. MFM is used for surface magnetic imaging and done by scanning a micromagnetic probe over the surface of a magnetic sample with an atomic force microscope. MFS sensors detect static and dynamic magnetic fields, with high spatial resolution and the ability to observe magnetic domains and defects.
Fluxgate Sensors
This is an advanced magnetic field sensor that utilizes electronic gates called fluxgate. The device comprises a saturating core wrapped by two orthogonal magnetic wire conductors. It can generate magnetic field variations to cancel the external field. Fluxgate sensors measure the intensity of magnetic fields and are highly sensitive to low magnetic field.
AMR Sensors
AMR stands for anisotropic magnetoresistance. This sensor measures the magnetic field using resistance variation in ferromagnetic alloys, like nickel and iron, due to a field orientation concerning an electric flow. AMR sensors are sensitive to magnetic fields. They offer benefits like real-time field strength measurement capability and high resolution.
The 3d magnetic field sensor is used to measure magnetic fields in three axes. It has some industrial applications like:
Electronic Compasses
These are small sensors that measure Earth's magnetic field to determine orientation and provide directional information. When combined with other sensors, such as accelerometers and gyroscopes, they produce more accurate readings, mainly used in marine, military, and aerospace industries.
Robotics and Automation
3D magnetic field sensors in robots help them navigate and locate themselves in a space-defined environment. They detect magnetic fields generated by embedded magnets within their surroundings, allowing them to track position and orientation. They play a crucial role in automation processes requiring precise positioning and movement control in industrial robotics.
Motion Capture
These sensors are applied in motion and posture capturing systems by measuring body part orientation and positioning during performance. This system generates maps of magnetic fields to determine motion and is used in two popular industries, film production and game development, for character animation, virtual reality, and augmented reality experiences.
Geophysical Exploration
3D magnetic field sensors are used in mineral and oil exploration by measuring the Earth's magnetic field and identifying magnetic anomalies. The data helps geologists for subsurface resource locations, improving efficiency in mining and oil extraction industries by providing accurate geographic information and potential resource presence.
Magnetic Field Mapping
3D magnetic field sensors are instrumental in magnetic mapping and environmental studies. For instance, they measure fields to assess environmental changes affecting wildlife and vegetation. In defense applications, these sensors map magnetic fields to identify magnetic signatures of mines, unexploded ordnance, and other threats.
Measurement Axis
They have three measurement, X, Y, and Z axes, and that allow them to perceive magnetic fields in all three dimensions. Such capability makes them appropriate for applications needing spatial awareness, like robotics and augmented reality.
Integrated Design
3D magnetic field sensors have combined magnetometer and compass functionalities into a single compact unit. Such integrated design enables efficient space utilization while providing diverse functional capabilities for electronic devices.
Low Power Consumption
It is the main benefit of these sensors as they use minimal power. This makes them suitable for portable devices that rely on battery power, like smartphones and wearable technology. Such sensors maintain performance without draining battery quickly.
Calibration
3D magnetic field sensors include built-in automatic calibration processes that help ensure accurate magnetic field readings despite errors caused by sensor drift or surrounding magnetic interferences. This feature allows sensors to maintain precision in real-time applications, particularly helpful in navigation systems.
High Sensitivity
The development of these sensors enables them to detect very low magnetic field strengths, like a few microteslas. This makes them appropriate for sensitive applications with magnetic field detection, such as geophysical exploration and medical imaging.
The 3d geomagnetic sensor should be set up properly for effective use. Here are the setup processes:
Mounting
Mount the device onto the platform or vehicle where the sensor will be used. Ensure that it is securely fastened and that all cables have been properly connected to the power supply via an interface cable.
Initial Power-up
After connecting the sensor cable and powering the unit on, initially power it up and collect the earth’s magnetic vector data. After powering up, let the sensors warm up for about 5 to 10 minutes prior to usage.
Configuration
Configure the sensor through a connected PC or laptop using the manufacturer’s analysis application. Set the measurement frequency, data output format, and any other parameters required for the specific magnetic measurement.
Calibration
Perform the calibration by placing the sensor in an open environment, away from magnetic interferences, and performing a calibration figure eight motion as instructed by the connected software. The calibration process usually takes several seconds to a few minutes.
Start Measurement
Once calibrated, click the start button in the application to begin measurement. The sensor will start recording magnetic data in the defined parameters, and one can stop or pause the measurement from the application when it is necessary.
Data Monitoring and Analysis
Monitor data in real-time via the connected application and conduct post-processing and analysis after completing the measurements, exporting the collected data into various formats for further evaluation.
There are several factors to consider when choosing 3D magnetic field sensors, such as:
Accuracy
It is one of the important factors regarding 3D magnetic field sensors, and always consider a sensor that provides accurate and precise magnetic field measurements in all three axes. Also, consider the magnetic anomaly and sensitivity of the sensor.
Power Consumption
Check the power consumption rate of the tri-axis magnetometer to use it effectively, especially in mobile and portable devices. High power consumption leads to battery drain, so go for a sensor with low power consumption to maintain the battery power for a long time.
Environment Suitability
Consider the environment where the sensor will be used. Such sensors are suitable for indoors, outdoors, geophysical, and space applications. Select the appropriate one based on the application and place it in the right environment.
Measurement Range
This defines the maximum magnetic field strength the sensor can measure, so choose the one that fits the application requirements. Sensors with a wide measurement range can detect various magnetic field strengths.
Output Format
Various 3D magnetic field sensors have different formats. Some come with analog output, while others are with digital output. Choose the sensor with the required output format for effective interfacing with data loggers, microcontrollers, and other electronic devices.
Cost
Various 3D magnetic field sensors come with different prices depending on their performance and specifications. Budget forms an essential factor in this case. Balance the cost with measurement accuracy, range, environment suitability, and other important factors to choose the right sensor that meets requirements without overspending.
Some of the applications include animal studies, archaeology, aerospace, and defense.
The type of sensor, field strength, temperature, position and orientation concerning the source, and the environment's magnetic susceptibility are the factors that influence the performance and working of a magnetic field sensor.
It offers around-the-clock monitoring and helps locate assets, improving workplace safety. It provides real-time data and is cost-effective.
Yes, some of these sensors can withstand outdoor use, especially in geophysical exploration and environmental monitoring.
