Sensor and method for encoding and detecting discrete positions

Abstract

Sensor and method for encoding and detecting a plurality of discrete positions are provided. The sensor comprises an array of electromagnetic assemblies. Each assembly may be made up of a magnet, and a flux-sensing switch electromagnetically coupable to the magnet to generate a signal having a respective logical state in response to the presence or absence of flux from the magnet. A flux mask is movably interposed between each magnet and flux-sensing switch. The flux mask includes a window array configured to pass or block flux from each magnet. The window array is further configured so that each flux-sensing switch can generate in response to whether or not flux passes therethrough, a signal set encoded to uniquely identify each of the discrete positions as the flux mask is set at any of the discrete positions.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.