The Engineering Projects

MLX90424 - Integrated Dual Position Sensor

Hi readers!  Hopefully, you are well and exploring technology daily. Today, the topic of our discourse is the MLX90424- integrated dual position sensors for robust security in automotive braking systems. You might already know about it or something new and different.

The MLX90424 is a highly advanced dual magnetic position sensor developed by Melexis with the stringent requirements of today's automotive braking systems, which have been highly demanding in terms of safety and performance. A combination of Hall-effect sensing and dual-sensor architecture, this device promises accurate position measurement and fault-tolerant operation, providing an excellent solution for such systems as electronic parking brakes and brake-by-wire technologies.

Melexis' Triaxis technology has been leveraged for the MLX90424, a three-dimensional magnetic field detector. It gives an accurate angular and linear position sense and has a dual-sensor configuration to ensure redundancy, providing functionality in case of failure. This configuration aligns with the ISO 26262 functional safety standards.

The sensor is designed to be highly reliable under extreme automotive conditions. It provides consistent performance over a wide range of temperatures and environmental factors. It supports digital and analog outputs for flexible integration into various automotive applications.

This article will discover its introduction, features and significations, working principles, pinouts, datasheet, and applications. Let's start.

Introduction:

• The MLX90424 is a Melexis dual magnetic position sensor designed for modern automotive braking systems that demand more stringent requirements.
• This product uses advanced Hall-effect technology to precisely measure magnetic fields, thus delivering accurate position sensing for various automotive applications.
• A dual-sensor setup provides high reliability because even if one of the sensors fails, it would not stop operation.
• It was designed to meet the safety requirements of ISO 26262 standards and is suitable for a set of critical automotive applications that include brake-bywire systems and electronic parking brakes.
• The MLX90424 is designed for durability under harsh automotive conditions; therefore, the system has a wide operating range temperature, and environmental range.
• Its dual analog and digital outputs also mean flexible integration into a diversity of automotive systems.
• The MLX90424 provides higher safety and performance for braking systems due to exceptional accuracy and durability.
• This device is also a future-oriented element in the conversion toward electric and autonomous vehicles.

Features:

Dual-Sensor Architecture for Fault-Tolerant Operation:

The MLX90424 contains a dual-sensor design, providing redundancy to prevent the failure of a single point. Such architecture is very important for automotive safety systems where a failure at one point can lead to disastrous effects.

Higher Reliability: 

Each sensor works independently. Thus, the system will be able to detect faults and will continue working even if a sensor fails.

ISO 26262 Compliance: 

The dual-sensor architecture aligns with ISO 26262 standards on functional safety, thus fitting applications demanding high reliability.

Hall-Effect Sensing Technology:

Hall-effect sensing technology is the heart of the MLX90424, which measures magnetic fields very precisely. With this, position and movement can be detected contactless.

Precision: 

The Hall-effect sensors are capable of providing high angular and linear position measurements. Systems such as brake pedals and steering mechanisms require the said precision.

Durability: 

The contactless sensing mechanism makes it less prone to wear and tear, therefore lasting longer.

Triaxis® Technology for 3D Magnetic Field Sensing:

The MLX90424 utilizes the Melexis proprietary Triaxis technology which enables it to sense a three-dimensional magnetic field (X, Y, and Z axis).

High Accuracy: 

This feature ensures accurate detection of angular and linear positions.

Versatility: 

It supports various magnetic configurations, including rotating magnets for angular sensing and moving magnets for linear sensing.

Dynamic Performance: 

The Triaxis® technology adapts to dynamic changes in magnetic fields, maintaining consistent accuracy under varying conditions.

Digital and Analog Output Support:

The MLX90424 supports multiple output interfaces for seamless integration into various systems.

Digital Outputs: 

It includes PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and SENT (Single Edge Nibble Transmission) for accurate and high-speed data communication.

Analog Outputs: 

This provides an analog voltage signal for systems that require traditional interface compatibility.

Customization: 

Configurable output ranges and formats allow tailoring to specific application needs.

Wide Operating Range:

The MLX90424 is designed to operate faultlessly under extreme environmental conditions, which is the hallmark of automotive applications.

Range: 

It operates efficiently over a temperature range of -40 °C to +150 °C, making it ideal for applications that are subjected to extreme heat or cold conditions.

Robustness: 

Resilient to extreme conditions such as vibration and mechanical shock, as well as electromagnetic interference (EMI).

Packaging sealed: 

Durable packaging that prevents it from getting dust, moisture, and other contaminants.

Adherence to Automotive Standards:

Completely meeting the stringent automotive industry norms, the MLX90424 is reliable and safe to use.

AEC-Q100 Qualified:

Qualified to auto level, ensuring dependable performance within demanding environments.

ISO 26262 Functional Safety: 

A qualified system that meets system requirements for safety integrity levels and can be used in high-end applications like brake-by-wire as well as EPB.

Advanced Signal Processing:

The MLX90424 has integrated signal processing functionality for improved accuracy and reliability of outputs.

Noise Reduction: 

Eliminates electrical and environmental noise; this provides stable readings.

Error Compensation: 

Automatically compensates for temperature drifts and magnetic interference, guaranteeing consistent performance.

Self-Diagnostic Features: 

Tracks the functionality of the product itself and reports faults; enables proactive maintenance.

Compact and Lightweight Design:

Despite its advanced functionality, the MLX90424 is designed to be housed in space-constrained automotive systems.

Compact Form Factor: 

Perfect for integrations in applications where space is limited - EPB modules, brake actuators, etc.

Lightweight Housing: 

This contributes to a fuel-efficient system, hence helping the vehicle achieve better mileage.

Low power consumption:

The MLX90424 is energy-efficient since it is a product especially designed for today's autos that are mainly powered by batteries.

Energy-Saving Modes: 

Offers low-power modes for standby in the event when the system is idle or not in use.

Efficient Design: 

Reduces power consumption without sacrificing performance, which helps it be used in electric and hybrid cars.

Customization and Flexibility:

The sensor allows a high degree of customization in terms of adaptation to application requirements.

Configurable Settings: 

Sensitivity, output range, and response time parameters can be set for varied applications.

Multiple Magnet Configurations: 

The MLX90424 is compatible with multiple magnets, which can facilitate different designs and placements.

Increased Safety Features:

Safety is a major issue with automotive systems, and the MLX90424 has features to achieve that.

Redundancy: 

The dual-sensor setup ensures operational continuity in case of sensor failure.

Diagnostics: 

Continuous self-monitoring capabilities detect faults and provide alerts, enhancing overall system safety. hybrid vehicles.

Datasheet:

General Information:

Electrical Characteristics:

Environmental Specifications:

Key Features:

Package Information:

Working Principle:

Hall-Effect Technology:

At its core, the MLX90424 employs Hall-effect technology, which detects the presence and magnitude of magnetic fields. This principle is based on the Hall effect, where a voltage is generated perpendicular to the current flow in a conductor when exposed to a magnetic field. The strength and direction of the magnetic field alter the voltage, which is then measured to determine position.

The sensor has a dual-sensor architecture that monitors magnetic fields at two different points. This redundancy improves accuracy and ensures that the sensor continues to function even in the event of a single-sensor failure, an important requirement for safety-critical automotive applications.

3D Magnetic Field Sensing:

The MLX90424 uses Triaxis® technology that enables the sensor to detect magnetic fields in three dimensions, namely X, Y, and Z axes. This 3D sensing capability offers

Angular Position Measurement: 

In the sensor, the measurement of rotational positions is determined using changes in the angle of the magnetic field.

Linear Position Measurement: 

It also measures linear displacement in this sensor using shifts of the magnetic field's strength in a straight line.

Using these two types of measurements allows it to be used with a wide variety of brake-by-wire systems, and throttle position monitoring as an example.

Signal Processing:

The MLX90424 contains a high-performance ASIC for signal processing. The following explains the process:

Detection of the Magnetic Signal: 

The magnetic field data are detected through the two Hall-effect sensors from the magnet in the system.

Signal Conditioning: 

The detected raw magnetic signals are conditioned to eliminate noise and assure accurate measurement.

ADC: 

Through an ADC, the conditioned analog signals are converted to digital data, thereby becoming available for further processing.

Position Calculation: 

ASIC makes a highly accurate and repeatable computation of the position from digital data from a magnetic field.

Fault Tolerant Operation:

Redundant design allows dual sensor architecture, fault-tolerant operation is a vital characteristic of this application due to the critical nature of safe-critical applications, and hence the system can instantly and transparently switch from using the failing sensor.

This feature allows the MLX90424 to be ISO 26262 compliant, thereby meeting different levels of ASIL required for automotive systems.

Digital and Analog Output:

The MLX90424 is compatible with both digital and analog formats for outputs. It allows integration in either format.

PWM and SENT Protocols:

The sensor provides Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) and Single Edge Nibble Transmission (SENT) protocols for digital output.

Analog Output: 

For applications where a traditional interface is used, the sensor also offers high-accuracy analog outputs that ensure wide-ranging applicability.

Self-Diagnostics:

The MLX90424 has powerful self-diagnostic capabilities. These are critical for the maintenance of reliability in critical systems. It continuously monitors its internal circuits, signal quality, and temperature. If any fault is detected, it triggers a fault signal so corrective action can be taken on time.

Wide Operating Range:

The sensor is designed to work efficiently in aggressive environmental conditions:

Temperature Tolerance: 

It works satisfactorily at a temperature range of -40°C to +150°C, ensuring stability within hot engine compartments and low temperatures.

Resistance to External Interference: 

The sensor is highly resistant to vibrations, mechanical shock, and EMI, which makes it feasible for demanding automotive environments.

Packaging is sealed:

The MLX90424 is shielded in durable, sealed packaging such that the components will not corrode or get contaminated with dust moisture, and chemicals. They thus ensure durability for any long period, even as it operates in harsher conditions.

Magnet Integration:

The MLX90424 is designed to be used together with an external magnet, normally mounted on a moving part in the system. The relative position of this magnet to the sensor defines the characteristics of the magnetic field that is used by the sensor to make position calculations.

This design enables the sensor to be used in many different configurations, such as pedal position sensing, steering angle measurement, and brake lever motion sensing.

Functional Safety Compliance:

The MLX90424 complies with the ISO 26262 functional safety standards and is suitable for applications requiring high safety integrity levels. Its design supports:

Diagnostic Coverage: 

Continuous monitoring of internal operations and fault detection.

Redundant Architecture: 

The dual-sensor setup provides backup functionality in case of a failure.

ASIL Certification: 

The sensor can achieve ASIL levels required for critical systems, such as brake-by-wire or electronic parking brakes (EPB).

MLX90424 Pinouts:

Additional Notes:

• OUT1 and OUT2: The independent outputs that enable dual-sensor capability for fault tolerance and redundancy.

• VDD: Keep the power source in the range of 3.3V to 5.5V for the component to work properly.

• GND/VSS: All ground pins should be connected to a common ground plane to reduce electrical noise.

• Unused Pins (NC): To be left alone; do not connect or short to the circuit.

Applications: 

The MLX90424 is a versatile dual magnetic position sensor with applications spanning automotive, industrial, and safety-critical domains:

Automotive Applications:

• Brake-by-Wire Systems: The sensor gives very accurate position measurements, making possible advanced braking technologies with enhanced control and safety.

• Electronic Parking Brakes (EPB): Their fault-tolerant functionality guarantees flawless operation in the auto-parking system, compliant with demanding automotive safety regulations.

• Steering Systems: The MLX90424 serves as a core component of electric power-assisted steering (EPAS), providing accurate angle and position detection to enhance vehicle performance and stability.

• Transmission Control: Supports accurate sensing of clutch and gear positions, thereby ensuring smoother and safer operation of advanced transmission systems.

• Electric Vehicle (EV) Components: It plays a very critical role in motor position sensing, which enables accurate control of electric drivetrains. This is critical for efficiency and performance.

Industrial Applications:

• Robotics and Automation: The system provides high accuracy of joint and actuator position feedback.

• Linear and Angular Motion Detection: It is used in machinery, which requires reliable position measurement.

Safety-Critical Applications:

Compliant with ISO 26262 functional safety standards, it is appropriate for systems requiring high safety integrity.

Conclusion: 

The MLX90424 is a revolutionary game-changing dual magnetic position sensor for rising safety, precision, and reliability in modern automotive and industrial applications. Through its integrated advanced Hall-effect technology coupled with a dual-sensor architecture, it presents an unmatched fault-tolerant operation and precision. Also, the ISO 26262 functional safety compliance is satisfied; hence, this component addresses the strict demands of any safety-critical systems for brake-by-wire, EPB, etc.

With its wide operating range, the sensor can be applied in harsh environments, including extreme temperatures, vibrations, and electromagnetic interference. Its robust design, sealed packaging, and AEC-Q100 automotive-grade qualification make it a trusted choice for the most demanding conditions.

As the automotive world pushes towards electrification and automation, the MLX90424 is at the heart of powering advanced technologies such as electric power-assisted steering, drivetrain control, and also autonomous vehicle systems. There are also industrial applications for automation and robotics in cases where reliability and precision need to be guaranteed.

The MLX90424 is proof of Melexis' dedication to innovation and safety, ensuring that it holds a prime place in the future of automotive and industrial innovations.

AHT10 high-precision Digital Temperature and Humidity Measurement Module

Hi readers! Hopefully, you are well and exploring technology daily. Today, the topic of our discourse is the AHT10 high-precision digital temperature and humidity measurement module. You might already know about it or something new and different.

The AHT10 high-precision digital temperature and humidity measurement module is the latest environmental sensing solution tailored for modern applications. Designed using cutting-edge technology, this unit can ensure accurate, stable, and reliable measurements for temperature and humidity. In its compact design and versatile feature, this unit will make way in most of the industrial applications including smart home systems, wearables, IoT devices, industrial automation, and medical equipment.

The AHT10 is especially noted for low power consumption, factory calibration, and its friendly I2C interface, which will seamlessly integrate into a digital system. Its measurement accuracy of ±0.3°C for temperature and ±2% RH for humidity ensures very high performance even in tough environments. Operating within an extended range of -40°C to 85°C and 0% to 100% RH, it can be used for virtually all applications, from air-conditioning systems to the monitoring of data centers.

This article explores the AHT10's features, working principle, and technical specifications as well as its applications and benefits, such as ease of use, energy efficiency, and stability over long periods. It's a product that has revamped environmental monitoring by providing data in a compact, cost-efficient package that meets technology-advancing industries. Let’s start.

Introduction:

• The AHT10 module ensures accurate temperature and humidity levels making it a central module used for modern environmental monitoring solution systems.
• Even under challenging conditions, temperature can be achieved at the rate of ±0.3°C, while a level of humidity of up to ±2% is observed.
• Due to the compact design, integration within highly space-constrained wearable or IoT devices becomes smooth and easy.
• The module comes pre-calibrated to deliver out-of-the-box accuracy, without a need for user calibration.
• It works very efficiently between -40°C and 85°C, also between 0% and 100% relative humidity thus suitable for various applications.
• Optimized for energy efficiency, ideal for use with battery-operated devices.
• With its digital I2C interface, it seamlessly interfaces with microcontrollers and other embedded systems for the immediate acquisition of data.
• It is used in smart homes, industrial automation, HVAC systems, medical devices, and data center monitoring.
• With performance and affordability, it is a cost-effective solution for large-scale deployments.  Engineered to operate for long periods, it provides consistent performance in various conditions.

Features:

High Measurement Accuracy:

The AHT10 digital module provides excellent accuracy - ±0.3°C accuracy for temperature and ±2% RH accuracy for humidity. It is very dependable for applications that need careful monitoring of the environment and is well-suited for most medical devices, industrial automation, and data centers where precise readings are essential to maintaining operation at the optimal level.

Wide Operating Range:

Designed to be flexible, the AHT10 can operate within a temperature range of -40°C to 85°C and within a humidity range of 0% to 100% RH. It guarantees reliable performance across different, extreme environmental conditions, hence fitting for outdoor applications, HVAC systems, and industrial environments.

A package with precision resilience, the module AHT10 is a premium solution for applications demanding consistent and reliable monitoring of temperature and humidity.

Compact Package:

The AHT10 has a small footprint with its low mass which makes the design easy for space-constrained applications such as wearables and Internet of Things devices.

Factory Calibration:

The AHT10 module is pre-calibrated at the factory. Therefore, it does not require any calibration from the user side. This simplifies the process of implementation and makes it reliable for a wide range of applications. The pre-calibration ensures that it provides the best performance. Therefore, developers save time and effort during the system setup process, especially in large deployments.

I2C Communication:

The AHT10 uses a standard I2C interface for easy data transmission. This widely supported protocol will ensure compatibility with most microcontrollers, making it easy to integrate into existing systems. Low power consumption of the I2C interface reduces design complexity and accelerates development cycles, making the module ideal for IoT applications, wearables, and other embedded systems requiring real-time temperature and humidity monitoring.

Low Power Consumption:

The AHT10 is ideal for battery-based applications due to its low power consumption, such as in portable weather stations and smart home applications. Thus, it can be used by such devices where long-term operation is the goal with power efficiency being an important aspect. The same feature supports even the multiplexing of several sensors in a system without much increase in the power requirement.

Stability over Time:

Engineered for durability, the AHT10 is built to deliver consistent performance over long periods, even in challenging environments. Its robust design minimizes the need for maintenance and recalibration, thus cutting down on operational costs and downtime. This module's stability and reliability make it a reliable solution for applications such as industrial automation, HVAC systems, and environmental monitoring where long-term accuracy is crucial. Designed to last, the AHT10 will work reliably for even long periods with minimal maintenance.

Functional Features:

Working Principle:

Humidity Sensing:

The humidity sensing mechanism in the AHT10 is through a capacitive sensor. The three elements that make up the capacitive sensor include:

• Substrate: It is the bottom layer upon which the structure of the sensor lies.

• Electrodes: These are conducting layers that establish an electric field for sensing the change in capacitance.

• Moisture-Sensitive Dielectric Layer: It senses water molecules that exist in the surrounding atmosphere.

The change in environmental humidity affects the dielectric constant of the moisture-sensitive layer. The alteration is in the capacitance of the sensor, and it depends directly on relative humidity. A capacitive sensor measures changes in capacitance and changes them into an electrical signal. The sensitivity and precision are high for such a sensor to capture even small changes in humidity, especially in a dynamic environment.

Temperature Sensing:

The AHT10 is a temperature-measuring device whose power source for this feature comes in an integrated thermal resistor, better known as a thermistor. The resistance of this thermistor varies with temperatures.

• As the temperature rises, the resistance lowers or decreases in case of a negative temperature coefficient thermistor NTC.

• And when the temperature drops, then the resistance is enhanced.

It has this change in resistance which, when measured and processed, gives an idea about the ambient temperature. This makes the AHT10 very responsive to fast readings on temperature.

Signal Processing:

The raw data from the capacitive humidity sensor and the thermistor is processed by the AHT10's internal Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC). The ASIC performs several important functions:

Signal Conversion: 

The analog signals from the sensors are converted into digital data for easy transmission.

Compensation Algorithms: 

Compensates for sensor-specific non-linearities and environmental influences, including temperature cross-sensitivity in humidity measurements.

Precision Enhancement: 

Enhances the linearity and accuracy of the sensor output.

The ASIC also guarantees that the sensor preserves high accuracy and reliability in different working conditions. The digitally processed data is relative humidity and temperature, ready for sending to other devices.

Digital Calibration:

The best thing about AHT10 is that the sensor comes factory-calibrated. That is, during manufacture, it is tested and calibrated on the production line to get rid of sensor imperfections or environmental interference errors. These include:

• Linearization: adjusting the sensor's output so it fits a linear curve.

• Offset Compensation: balancing out a shift in baselines from manufacturing tolerances.

• Temperature Compensation: compensation for the effects of temperature variations in measurements of humidity.

Factory calibration is beneficial in the way it allows an accurate reading directly taken from the box with no user calibration required. Thus, it would be highly convenient and applicable in mass deployments that would not be possible when done manually.

Data Transmission:

The AHT10 communicates with microcontrollers or host devices by using the Inter-Integrated Circuit (I2C) protocol. This communication protocol gives an efficient and reliable method of transmitting sensor data to a microcontroller or any other host device. The main features of AHT10's I2C communication are a two-wire interface that requires only two lines to function, Serial Data (SDA) and Serial Clock (SCL), to minimize the complexity of wiring; it supports multiple devices on the same bus, allowing for scalable system designs.

High-speed data transfer: This enables real-time monitoring of environmental conditions.

The digital output of the AHT10 eliminates the need for heavy signal processing or additional Analog-to-Digital converters in the host system.

Datasheet:

Packaging Information:

Electrical Characteristics:

AHT10 - Pinouts:

Key Notes:

Power Supply Requirements:

The AHT10 module needs a regulated power supply with a range of 2.2V to 5.5V, which should be connected to the VDD pin for proper functionality.

I2C Communication: 

The AHT10 uses I2C protocol to communicate and requires two major lines that include SDA (Serial Data) and SCL (Serial Clock) for the transfer of data and for synchronizing with the module and the microcontroller.

Pull-Up Resistors: 

There should be 4.7kΩ pull-up resistors on the SDA and SCL lines for good signal levels. The pull-up resistors keep the voltage stable, hence ensuring proper communication.

Microcontroller Interface:  

The AHT10 communicates with a microcontroller that uses the I2C protocol. Integration with any other microcontroller using an I2C interface is not difficult at all since it does not need extra hardware to facilitate communication.

Ease of Integration:

Following the widely used I2C standard, the AHT10 offers smooth data exchange and facilitates its integration into a broad array of applications, enhancing flexibility and reducing complexity.

Comparison with Similar Modules:

Future Trends in Environmental Sensing:

As technology advances, sensors such as the AHT10 will continue to change. Some of the trends that are expected include:

Increased Integration with AI:

Sensors will be used with AI systems for predictive analytics and smart decision-making.

Further Miniaturization:

Sensors will be reduced in size to fit into even smaller devices.

Improved Energy Efficiency:

Future modules will consume even less power, thus extending battery life.

Advanced Communication Protocols:

New interfaces will improve connectivity and data transfer speeds.

Advantages of AHT10:

High Accuracy:

The module offers temperature accuracy of ±0.3°C and humidity accuracy of ±2% RH, thus providing accurate measurements in various applications.

Wide Operating Range:

It works in a temperature range of -40°C to 85°C and a humidity range of 0% to 100% RH, thus it is versatile for various environments.

Factory Calibration:

Pre-calibrated at the factory, the AHT10 ensures consistent, reliable performance without the need for user calibration.

Energy Awareness:

The energy-efficient design makes it suitable for battery-powered devices such as portable weather stations and smart home systems.

I2C Communication:

The AHT10 has an I2C interface that makes it easy to integrate with microcontrollers, thus making the system design easier.

Long-Term Stability:

Its durable design makes the module reliable in the long term, thus reducing maintenance needs.

Easy Interfacing:

The interface I2C makes interface with microcontrollers easy while reducing development time and cost.

Compact Body:

Its small size allows embedding it into modern compact designs and applications.

Cost-Competitive:

AHT 10 provides high performance without high cost, making its application very wide.

Applications:

Weather Stations:

The AHT10 is useful in weather stations. Accurate temperature and humidity are highly important for weather forecasting and monitoring climatic conditions.

Smart Home Systems:

It is applied in the smart home system to monitor and control indoor environmental conditions, enhance comfort, and save energy.

Industrial Automation:

The module is used in factories and manufacturing lines. This helps in maintaining proper conditions for machines and machinery so that malfunction due to environmental factors does not occur.

Agriculture:

AHT10 is very useful in controlled environments like greenhouses, where humidity and temperature control are crucial for the crops' health.

Data Centers:

It helps monitor the temperature and humidity in data centers to ensure that servers and other equipment are kept in optimum operating conditions to avoid overheating or damage.

Medical Devices:

The module is used in medical applications such as monitoring the environmental conditions of hospitals, laboratories, and storage areas for pharmaceuticals.

Consumer Electronics:

It is also used in portable weather devices and health-related consumer electronics that can provide accurate readings for personal use.

Conclusion:

AHT10 high precision digital temperature and humidity measuring module offers a great solution in applications requiring environmental monitoring. Having impressive accuracy in both the temperature and humidity measurements over a wide operating range, it can be used in various industries, including smart homes, agriculture, data centers, and industrial automation. Due to factory calibration, there is no need for manual intervention, ensuring accurate and stable readings, and low power consumption, making it great for use in battery-driven devices.

The AHT10 is easily integrated via the I2C interface and, above all, shows long-term stability; therefore, it is a secure choice for many applications. Its performance in various environmental conditions extreme temperatures as well as humid conditions serves to heighten its suitability. Concluding, the AHT10 provides a reliable, low energy consumption, and highly accurate solution for modern requirements of temperature and humidity measurements.