MLX81334 motor driver optimises EV valves for battery control
A motor driver designed to optimise the thermal valves of electric vehicles (EVs) has been launched by Melexis. The MLX81334 optimises thermal valves to ensure accurate battery temperature control. It also optimises the EV’s expansion valves in the heat pump refrigeration loop. This optimisation enables a longer range for EVs.
The LIN-based MLX81334 is a 1A-rated motor driver intended for deployment in the mechatronic thermal management systems. This single chip device drives small DC, BLDC or stepper motors. Each IC has an embedded microcontroller (with a 16-bit application processor and a separate communications processor), four FET half-bridge drivers, data conversion circuitry, and LIN or serial interfaces. The 64kbyte on-chip memory of the MLX81334 is double that of the existing MLX81332, providing ample capacity for the use of sophisticated software, said Melexis. This means that more safety diagnostics can be incorporated, as well as essential calibration data. The MLX81334 additionally supports OTA (over-the-air) updates.
The driver is based on Melexis’ high voltage silicon-on-isolator (SoI) technology. According to Melexis this results in a combination of operational robustness with elevated levels of functional integration. The driver attains high power operation in a streamlined form factor in order to take up only minimal board area. It is therefore suitable for even the most space-constrained of mechatronic deployments.
The MLX81334 drivers are supplied in 5.0 x 5.0mm 32-pin QFN packages. They are suitable for use in 12V and 24V automotive systems. Over-temperature, over-current, over-voltage and under-voltage protection functions are all included.
Melexis also offers technical support by its experienced engineers to help customers achieve right first time designs.
The MLX81334 complements Melexis’ embedded motor drivers portfolio with extended memories and OTA support for premium software features.
Melexis designs, develops and delivers micro-electronic solutions. It says that its advanced mixed-signal semiconductor sensors and actuators integrate sensing, driving and communication into next-generation products and systems and improve safety, raise efficiency, support sustainability and enhance comfort.
Its automotive sensors expertise is used to serve other markets, for example alternative mobility, smart appliances, smart buildings, robotics, energy management and digital health. Today, on average, every new car produced worldwide contains 18 Melexis chips.
Melexis is headquartered in Belgium and employs over 1,700 people in 18 locations worldwide.
