The world leader in electronic solutions TDK Corporation has introduced its upgraded Micronas 3D HAL direct-angle Hall-effect sensor family, for automotive and industrial applications.
According to ISO 26262, these devices, HAL 37xy are defined as Safety Element out of Context (SEooC) and ASIL B-ready. The detection features offered are used in applications such as accelerator pedals, electronic throttle controls, rotary shifters (with push-function), and rear-axis steering systems. The sensors can detect the linear position in applications like clutch or brake pedals, transmission systems, cylinders as well as valve position sensing.
Through its 3D HAL technology, TDK enables vertical Hall plates to easily integrate into the standard CMOS process. This process has made it easier to check for the relative strength of the horizontal and vertical magnetic field components, which is key for excellent angular performance which In comparison with conventional planar Hall technology is only sensitive to the magnetic field orthogonal to the chip surface.
Three different direct angle sensor variants are offered by TDK with the HAL 37xy sensors – HAL 37xy sensor family, a version with backward compliance function via two integrated Hall sensor dies (HAR 37xy), and a version with integrated capacitors (HAC 37xy). The robustness of the direct angle sensor family from TDK gives the user outstanding temperature stability, high resistance against air gap variations and magnet ageing, a range of diagnostic functions and a very effective protection circuit. They provide full compatibility from two independent dies.
Stand-alone sensor solutions in a single package reduce system costs while increasing the reliability of the system as smaller PCBs and fewer solder joints. The total cost, as well as the size, can be reduced; can eliminate the need for a PCB by pins of the package which can be soldered or welded directly to the lead frame. With an upgrade of the ASIL-B this product family enables the TDK sensor customers’ base to use this with functional safety demands. It makes the line of products future customer applications.
