TDK InvenSense builds cheap magnetic sensors for humanoid finger joints

TDK InvenSense is co-developing with robot makers a low-cost magnetic sensing setup for humanoid joints that measures joint angle with one magnet and one sensor, aiming to replace encoders in fingers and other joints that need less precision, TDK vice president Jung Do-hyung said at a conference in Seoul on Oct 16, The Elec reported on Oct 19.

The design uses tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) sensors, the more accurate option, and Hall sensors that track three-dimensional position in ball-type joints; TDK is also developing a magnetic encoder for joints that need precise position control.

Jung said a humanoid has 20 to 50 joints and that angle-only magnetic sensing is likely less accurate than an encoder but smaller, lower in power and much cheaper; he did not name the robot makers involved.

MEKAWIRE reported on Oct 14 that Korea's RS Automation plans a platform to test domestic servo motors, reducers and encoders, the joint-sensing market TDK is now entering from the low-cost end.