Bioinspired weak magnetic vector sensor for analysis and measurement of geomagnetic field parameters

The geomagnetic field has been extensively applied in the positioning and orientation of aviation, aerospace, and navigation, typically achieved by employing high-precision magnetic sensors to detect changes in the intensity and direction of the geomagnetic field. Based on the research of natural organisms that use geomagnetic fields for navigation, the recognized magnetoreception mechanisms of organisms include the magnetic particle hypothesis and the free radical pair hypothesis. Inspired by the belief that there is coupling between these two hypotheses, a bioinspired weak magnetic vector (BWMV) sensor is designed and developed. The finite element model of the BWMV sensor is constructed, and the Fourier series is used to obtain the inverse equation for calculating geomagnetic field parameters based on measured values. The magnetic field experiments of the BWMV sensor and two three-axis magnetometers with distinct structures were conducted, verifying that the BWMV sensor has a better detection effect on geomagnetic field parameters.