# Single-Track Magnetic Tape Absolute Position Sensor with Self-Adaptivity

## TL;DR

A new magnetic tape sensor system is developed that can accurately determine position using a single track, adapting to different patterns and misalignments.

## Contribution

The novel self-adaptive single-track magnetic position sensor system that simplifies manufacturing and improves alignment tolerance.

## Key findings

- The system can determine position accurately with fewer sensing elements than bits covered.
- It adapts to irregular or altered magnetic code patterns and localizes them in a self-learned map.
- The sensor maintains performance even with misaligned or changed magnetic tape.

## Abstract

In this study, we demonstrate a single-track magnetic code tape-based absolute position sensor system. Unlike traditional dual-track systems, our method simplifies manufacturing and avoids crosstalk between tracks, offering higher tolerance to alignment errors. The sensing system employs an array of magnetic field sensing elements that recognize the bit sequence encoded on the tape. This approach allows for accurate position determination even when the number of sensing elements is fewer than the number of bits covered, and without the need for specific spacing between sensing elements and bit length. We demonstrate the system’s ability to learn and adapt to various magnetic code patterns, including those that are irregular or have been altered. Our method can identify and localize the sensed magnetic field pattern directly within a self-learned magnetic field map, providing robust performance in diverse conditions. This self-adaptive capability enhances operational safety and reliability, as the system can continue functioning even when the magnetic tape is misaligned or has undergone changes.