Differential sensor for linear displacement has been optimized in terms of linearity and sensitivity. The optimization of the sensor is carried out with respect to its characteristic displacement‐output voltage.
Response surface methodology and design of experiments have been successfully applied for sensor optimization. First, a full factorial experiment – computation of the quasi‐static electromagnetic field of the sensor using the finite element method – has been performed. Secondary model has been created on the basis of finite element results. Then this model has been optimized with respect to two criteria – linearity and sensitivity.
The mutual influence of both criteria has been studied. In this way an optimal trade‐off between linearity and sensitivity of the sensor was achieved.
Relatively small numbers of optimization criteria have been varied. The results can be further improved by adding additional factors to the study.
The results obtained improve characteristics of this type of sensor and make it low cost alternative to the high‐end linear displacement sensors in low to moderate accuracy applications.
