3D-CAD of an amorphous magnetostrictive sensor for monitoring the movements of the human spine

Parameters of a recently developed movement sensor using amorphous ferromagnetic alloys, such as distance of the coupling elements or geometry of the magnetization coil, were reflected in a numerical simulation using a three-dimensional finite-element program package. It was found that both linear behavior and high sensitivity cannot be achieved in the same sensor arrangement. Thus, each sensor must be designed according to its special application. Concentration of the magnetization coils at the sensor's ends should be considered only if high sensitivity is required and linear behavior is not essential. Furthermore, the proper functioning of the magnetostrictive bending sensor requires a homogeneous coil distribution over its length, thus requiring design compromises. >