Melexis has introduced the MLX90381 5V, expanding its compact pico-resolver family for automotive and alternative mobility.
As engineers work to make motors smaller and more efficient, integrating accurate rotor-position sensing into constrained mechanical systems can become more challenging.
This is particularly relevant in applications where end-of-shaft sensing is not possible, including through-shaft motors, braking motors, steering motors, and e-bike drives.
For electric vehicles (EVs), the sensor can support rotor-position detection in compact BLDC and PMSM motor systems used for functions, such as braking, steering, and electronic valve actuation.
The MLX90381 5V combines three-axis Hall sensing with high-speed sine and cosine analog outputs in a compact DFN-6 package. By sensing magnetic flux density in three dimensions and allowing selectable X/Y, X/Z, or Z/Y magnetic axis pairs, the device gives engineers greater flexibility in positioning the sensor relative to the rotating magnet.
In side-of-shaft and through-shaft motor designs, the sensor can be positioned below or close to the magnetic track rather than requiring additional side space. This can reduce mechanical constraints and simplify PCB placement in compact motor assemblies.
The MLX90381 5V provides an output refresh rate of 2 µs and can measure rotational speeds above 50,000 rpm. Programmable sensitivity and filter bandwidth allow the sensor to be configured for different motor-control requirements, while I²C communication supports device configuration and calibration during production.
The device is housed in a 2.0 x 2.5 x 1.0-mm DFN-6 package and operates from -40° to 160° C. It also includes embedded diagnostics, ASIL B SEooC capability, and AEC-Q100 qualification for automotive applications.
Target applications include e-valves, seat motors, door handles, braking motors, steering motors, e-bike motors, cadence sensing, and more.
Filed Under: Technology News