Position Sensors

So you want to know where something is? There are a lot of options! In motorsports we measure the position of a lot of things. Lets look at some applications and options.There are for most common sensor types that we have – string sensors, linear sensors, rotary sensors, and non contact sensors.

Let’s look at string sensors first. I think it’s easiest to think of them as a digital tape measure. A sensor measures how far a self retracting string pulls out of the sensor. With that you can know the position of things like throttle pedals, adjusters, and steering shafts (by wrapping the string around it).

Linear sensors look like little shock absorbers and they measure how far the shaft is pulled out or pushed into the sensors. You see them on throttle positions, shocks, shifters, steering racks, sway bars, and more. They are very common and AiM’s line of Eclipse sensors offers the latest technology with carbon fiber tubes and shafts, non-contact Hall Effect elements, and a smart calibration that has short and open notification.

Rotary sensors are sort of like volume controls that allow you to connect a linkage to a sensor to measure how far it’s turned. Most commonly seen on throttle position, they are also used on steering shafters, suspension rockers, and other areas.

The final sensor is a non contact position sensor. These are very common in measure throttle and brake position in karting applications, but they are also seen on suspension, clutch pedals, and more. Utilizing a strong magnet and a receiver, they can tell how far apart they are. With easy installations and no force imparted on the component being measures, they are popular in tight locations and were mounting the sensor is tricky.

If you have a position measurement that you need help with, reach out to TrailBrake and we will help you pick the best sensor for your application.