Linear Variable Differential Transformer (LVDT)

A Linear Variable Differential Transformer (LVDT) is a displacement transducer, used to measure displacement, based on the effect of the mutual inductances. It is also used in some hydraulic applications, steam control and pressure measurement.

Figure  below shows the structure of an LVDT, which consists of the primary winding, excited by an AC source, displacable magnetic core, and two secondary windings, connected to the output voltage.  The displacement distance  determines the mutual coupling of the primary and secondary windings. The middle position of the core corresponds to the zero output voltage.

Let’s consider the primary coil with characteristics $R_C$ and $L_C$, then  $i{R}_c+L_c\frac{di}{dt}=v_{AC}$.  So voltages induced in the secondary winding are  $v_1=M_1\frac{di}{dt}, v_2=M_2\frac{di}{dt}$.

Here $M_1$ and $M_2$ are mutual inductances between the primary and secondary windings. Where $M_1$ and $M_2$ are depend on the position of the magnetic core. So  $v_{out}=v_1–v_2=(M_1–M_2)\frac{di}{dt}$.

An LVDT is designed in a way that $v_{out}$ is linearly dependent on the position r of the magnetic core. If the core is displaced closer to $M_1$, $v_1$ increases and $v_2$ is decreases. If the core is displaced closer to the $M_2$ winding, $v_2$ increases and $v_1$ decreases. If the core is displaced closer to the winding,  increases and  decreases. As the excitation signal is the AC signal, the $v_{out}$ will be an AC signal as well.

It’s amplitude and phase are dependent on the magnetic core $r$ position. The output $v_{out}$ signal is the Amplitude-Modulated (AM) Signal. One of the applications of the LVDT is a position balancing detector. The LVDT’s sensor has evolved since the time it was first designed and implemented as a very useful technology for reliable measurements into applications for different industries, like industrial, military, aerospace, sea, and so on.

The modern LVDT sensor is upgraded with a microcontroller and innovative construction materials, and the supporting electronics are often already included in the LVDT package.

[1] Engineering Principles and Applications of Electrical Engineering, 3^rd edition, Rizzoni.
[2] Modern LVDT’s in new applications in the Air, Ground and Sea, John Matlack, 2010
[3] TE Connectivity, White Paper, Linear Variable Differential Transformer.

Magnetic Reluctance Position Sensors