MLX90424 - Integrated Dual Position Sensors for Robust Security in Automotive Braking Systems

Melexis released the MLX90424, integrating two position-sensing ICs and a wake-up switch isolated in 1 package. It delivers a cost-effective solution with robust security, enabling simple and combat design. Equipped with 12 V power and evaluating the precise measurements of linear displacement up to 30 mm, it is tailored for safety-critical and space-constrained applications like automotive brake systems that demand tailored sensors.

The new MLX90424 ensures that the position sensing and switching elements are placed together at the ideal location. This makes it more efficient than the current brake pedal module with separated position sensors and switches. This helps to reduce design and packaging considerations, simplifying assemblies and Bill of Material (BOM) component count. In addition, it offers redundancy through its dual linear position sensing, while the integrated magnetic switch allows the implementation of a power-saving mode. And supply flexibility is achieved by allowing it to be powered directly from the 12 V battery.

Melexis Triaxis Hall technology is used in the MLX90424 to provide stray field robustness. Along with the position sensing function providing up to ASIL D system integration and the switch function supporting up to ASIL B in compliance with ISO 26262, the combined sensor comes with AEC-Q100 qualification. In compliance with ISO 11452-8, it provides dependable and highly integrated operation for safety-critical braking operations and is resistant to magnetic stray fields up to 5 mT (4 kA/m).

Features of MLX9042 Break Pedal Sensor

• Triaxis Hall Technology for Robust Absolute Position Sensing

• Programmable Measurement Range

• Programmable Linear Transfer Characteristic (12 to 16 Multi-points)

• Selectable output modes: Analog ratiometric, SENT (SAE J2716 APR2016) and PWM (Pulse Width Modulation)

• Robustness against stray magnetic field up to 5mT (4kA/m) as per ISO 11452-8

• 48-bit ID Number option

• Hall switch: Less than 10μA average supply current in μ-Power Mode

• Supports 12 V battery-powered mode

• Integrated self-diagnostic functions activating dedicated Safe Mode

• Flexible magnetic thresholds and temperature coefficient

• ISO 26262 Safety Element Out of Context

• AEC-Q100 Qualified (Grade 0) 

• ASIL C for  the Position sensing and ASIL B for the Switch sensing

Applications of MLX9042 Break Pedal Sensor

• Brake pedal stroke sensor

• Pedal Position Sensor

• Throttle Position Sensor

• Ride Height Position Sensor

• Absolute Linear Position Sensor

• Float-Level Sensor

• Non-Contacting Potentiometer

• Wake-up switch