ZF Hall-based position sensors for marine engine controls

16th April 2021

Alex Lynn

0 0

Hall-based position sensors are becoming widely used in a wide variety of applications due to their contactless and wear-free measurement method. These sensors are used in outboard marine engines to control the trim level. Marine drive manufacturers rely on the Hall-based position sensors from ZF as reliable and robust components for their overall drive system.

The Hall-based position sensors from ZF have been established as a reliable sensor solution for marine applications, especially for the inclination and trim measurement of outboard motors. To ensure optimal performance of a boat depending on the speed, the outboard motor must have a certain inclination. Both angle and linear position sensors are used with an associated external magnet carrier to monitor and realign the current inclination of the motor.

The sensors are completely contactless and have an almost unlimited lifetime, as no wear and tear occur caused by abrasion. For position measurement, the external magnet is attached a few millimeters above the sensor. If the magnet rotates, the magnetic field changes, which again leads to a change in voltage within the sensor electronics. Each voltage value can be assigned to a specific angle value.

Depending on the requirements and customers’ requests, ZF offers a range of different angle sensor variants with associated magnets for triggering signals. These vary in terms of the angular range (0-360°), signal redundancy (non-, semi- or fully redundant), connection interface (cable, connector), operating temperature range and form factor. Attributed to long lasting experiences and know how in hall-based sensor technology, also customized solutions can be fulfilled.