Non-contacting angle sensor

Paul Boughton

Variohm EuroSensor has increased the interfacing flexibility of its motorsports-proven Euro-XP non-contacting angle sensor with a new 8 mm diameter D-shaft drive option which is available with a choice of 32 or 38 mm PCD mounting.

The D-shaft with its integral magnet makes for easier installation, particularly for throttle position sensing, without the need for a separate coupling.

With the optimal magnet to sensing-element gap maintained within the assembly, and a choice of mounting diameters, form-fit interchangeability with competitive models is made easy.

The coupling-free sensor is also convenient for direct connection on other motorsport position sensing applications such as steering angle, suspension and gearbox.

The comprehensive 28 mm diameter Euro XP family, also available with Form ‘U’, spring coupling or separate ‘Puck+Magnet versions features the motorsports industry preferred 5 VDC ratiometric output and includes a redundant dual-track 360 degree measuring range for safety-critical use.

With two factory programmable angles from 30 to 360 degrees for both measurement range and characteristic curve, the sensor can be configured for a constant voltage output over pre-defined angles which is very useful for gearbox applications.

The position output covers 5% to 95% of the 5 VDC supply voltage and being absolute, does not lose position after power loss. The precision of the Euro XP family combines an independent linearity of ±0.5% of each signal range with repeatability to better than 0.2%.

The new D-shaft sensor joins the Euro XP family with completely contactless technology and a mechanical bearing-free design with a long-life specification in excess of 50 million movements. The fully encapsulated sensor element ensures complete environmental protection – rated to IP68, in addition to IEC 60068-2-6 protection against shock and vibration - making it a perfect choice for challenging race track conditions. The sensor is moulded in highly resilient glass-filled PBT plastic with threaded inserts and a reinforced mounting-flange with stainless steel kidney washers that add further durability.  The D-shaft material is moulded nylon 66 and the 32 or 38 mm PCD mounting for two M4 screws includes slots for radial adjustment. A choice of three cable exit offsets is offered and electrical connection for the standard model is Raychem 55 cable and DR-25 sleeving at 500mm length, with connector options available on request.