Melexis announces the MLX90514, a dual-input inductive sensor integrated circuit (IC). The novel device simultaneously processes signals from two sets of coils to compute differential or vernier angles on-chip. This sensor is designed for next-generation automotive applications, particularly in systems such as steering torque feedback, steering angle sensing, or steering rack motor control (including steer-by-wire implementations).
The automotive industry is undergoing a significant transformation driven by electrification, autonomy, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These trends are increasing the complexity of vehicle control systems, particularly in systems such as steering torque feedback, steering rack motor control, including steer-by-wire implementations, which demand dual-channel position sensing to deliver accurate torque and angle measurements. Although combining two single-channel ICs or using magnetic sensors has long been the traditional solution for many applications, alternative approaches can reduce system complexity and cost in certain scenarios.
The dual-input MLX90514 directly addresses these challenges by integrating differential and vernier angle calculations on-chip, reducing processing demands on the host system, and enabling smaller, more streamlined sensor designs. This capability is particularly vital as the demand for reliable, cost-effective sensing solutions grows in electrified and alternative mobility applications.
As Melexis’ first dual inductive application-specific standard product (ASSP), the MLX90514 combines flexible interface options—SENT, SPC, and PWM for a standalone module, SPI for embedded modules—with integrated on-chip processing. It can compute complex position information such as differential or vernier angles directly at the sensor, reducing system workload and eliminating the need for multiple ICs, thus reducing design complexity and bill-of-material (BoM) component count. Its SENT/SPC output accommodates up to 24-bit payload, enabling high-fidelity transmission of two synchronized 12-bit channels – essential for high-accuracy torque and angle sensing.
Engineered for demanding automotive applications, the MLX90514 comes equipped with a suite of top-notch features designed to elevate sensing performance and simplify system design:
- Zero-Latency Synchronized Dual-Channel Operation: Latency is crucial for real-time and highly accurate position sensing in critical automotive systems.
- External PWM Signal Integration: An additional input allows the sensor to read PWM signals from external sources, such as a magnetic sensor. This enables the MLX90514 to combine and process multi-turn angle and torque data within a single device, offering a comprehensive sensing solution.
- Compact Coil Design and Tighter PCB Layouts: The IC’s ability to handle small inductive input signals supports compact coil designs and tighter PCB layouts. This facilitates the development of smaller, highly integrated sensing modules without compromising performance.
- ASIL D Compliant Sensing Systems: The MLX90514 enables ASIL D compliant sensing systems, as a Safety Element out of Context (SEooC), for automotive steering torque and angle applications, ensuring the highest level of functional safety.
From Melexis
“The MLX90514 is a game-changer. We’ve poured our passion for inductive sensing into creating a dual-input IC that directly tackles the growing complexity in automotive systems. This isn’t just another product; it’s a solution that simplifies design, reduces BOM, and delivers critical synchronized data with zero latency,” said Lorenzo Lugani, Product Line Director at Melexis. “Engineers now have a powerful, cost-effective sensor to innovate in steer-by-wire, torque sensing, and beyond, paving the way for the next generation of electrified and autonomous vehicles.” Supported by Melexis’ extensive experience and dedicated application support, the sensor forms a core part of its growing inductive portfolio, enabling customers to source a broad range of innovative inductive solutions from a single trusted supplier. The MLX90514 inductive interface sensor is available now. For more details, visit www.melexis.com/MLX90514 or contact us via www.melexis.com/contact.
