Blog

Vehicle pressure chip sensor gets by without PCB ...

Using these pressure sensors, automotive suppliers and OEMs will be able to make all their ICE engine management applications greener via a singular modular technology, melexis promises. To facilitate implementation the devices are factory calibrated, while EoL (End of Line) calibration is also possible.

The MLX90823 (analogue output) and MLX90825 (digital SENT output) are relative pressure sensors which can be used in gauge mode (versus the atmospheric pressure) or in a differential mode (with two variable pressure levels). Unlike absolute pressure sensors, they measure the pressure difference between the two sides of the sensor. These factory-calibrated devices are intended to measure pressure spanning from 0.1 to 1.5 bar. Test Meter Calibration

The new pressure sensors demonstrate an accuracy performance not met in the automotive industry to date. Access to stable and accurate data on pressure and temperature enables full lifetime engine management. This helps OEMs to reduce emissions on the last generation of ICE cars. The plug-and-play concept of this pressure sensor family covers all the ICE management applications. These include:

The MLX90823 and MLX90825 each integrate a sensor readout circuit, digital hardware, voltage regulators, SENT or analogue output drivers, plus all the essential passive components. A pre-calibrated (Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) thermistor input is available for the MLX90825 (SENT output). This allows customers to interface their NTC through the pressure sensor without end-calibration. Superior overvoltage (+40 V) and reverse voltage (-40 V) protection mechanisms are incorporated. Thanks to this protection range, the technology enables trucks to become greener. These pressure sensors have an operating temperature range from -40°C to 160°C. They can even be exposed to 170°C temperatures for a short period, supporting downsized engine architectures.

The MEMS sensing element of the MLX90823 and MLX90825 consists of a micro-machined diaphragm etched into a silicon substrate. The diaphragm reacts to any pressure change that occurs. Piezo-resistive elements implanted into the diaphragm are configured to create a Wheatstone bridge that generates a signal. The accompanying front-end electronics subsequently amplify the signal and convert it into a digital format. The 16-bit Digital Signal Processing (DSP) undertakes temperature compensation. Finally, the result is provided through a SENT or analogue output.

The MLX90823 and MLX90825 have been developed as a Safety Element out of Context (SEooC), in accordance with ISO 26262. They support ASIL B system integration for the MLX90825 (SENT) and ASIL A for the MLX90823 (analogue).

High Temperature Thermometer All material on this site Copyright © 2022 European Business Press SA. All rights reserved.