Characteristics of level and two-axis attitude detector <i>A</i> using magnetic fluid

摘要

Level and attitude detector are required for the detection of level and angles, for controlling the attitude of robots, keeping solar cell panels directed toward the sun, and the parabola antenna constantly toward the manmade satellite in communication systems. The usual angle detector can detect an angle in one axis only, and cannot detect the level alone. The detector described in this paper is able to detect angles of orientation with respect to horizontal and vertical planes. In addition, the new detector can detect level by itself for using fluids, such as water levels. This detector has three tubes with the magnetic fluid placed inside with three coils. The tubes are sealed and the solvent of the magnetic fluid does not evaporate. Therefore, the life span of the detector is longer than the previous detector. Its structure is very simple, small, and robust. It is also a lightweight unit. The output signals are square waves, always in use with digital signal processes. The operating characteristics are described in this paper.