Multi-channel RGB automotive LED driver supports MeLiBu comms interface
Automotive OEMs can introduce enhanced features using the MLX81117, the latest member of Melexis’ lighting IC family. The multi-channel RGB LED driver supports the MeLiBu high-speed communication interface.
The MeLiBu high-speed communications, licence-free IP enables intelligent animated automotive lighting, for example better colour-mixing accuracy, says Melexis.
Car manufacturers use animated lighting in the vehicle’s cabin, to provide information such as driver-assistance prompts, vehicle status updates or comfort functions like an adaptive roof light. It is becoming increasingly mainstream to use RGB LED light bars to communicate with the driver through colour-coded, colour-changing and blinking sequences. Resulting engineering challenges include maintaining consistent colour across all of the LEDs in the light bar and implementing simultaneous light changes.
The MLX81117 addresses these by integrating the Melexis MeLiBu high-speed communication interface IP. MeLiBu controls individual LEDs to implement the lighting effects defined by the vehicle’s systems. The intelligent RGB LED controller also provides real-time compensation of any colour drift caused by environmental changes, and colour-mixing accuracy with a delta UV of less than 0.01 per cent to eliminate any distinguishable differences between LEDs, explains Melexis.
The MeLiBu communication interface uses a CAN-FD physical layer to deliver robust performance at up to 2Mbit speeds. MeLiBu also delivers intelligent and high resolution operation to mitigate temperature-related colour drift, to maintain a consistent and non-distracting light experience under all operating conditions.
The MLX81117 LED driver IC also features brightness control across a wide dimming range, to allow adjustments for natural light levels. The MLX81117 complies with ISO 26262 functional safety requirements up to safety integrity level B (ASIL B) and the design also delivers low EMI and high levels of immunity, helping designers to meet EMC regulations.
The MLX81117 is the second Melexis product to integrate its MeLiBu technology.
Samples are available now.
Melexis designs, develops and delivers innovative micro-electronic solutions, offering mixed-signal semiconductor sensor and actuator components to integrate sensing, driving and communication into products and systems.
Melexis claims to be a world leader in automotive semiconductor sensors. Today, on average, every new car produced worldwide contains 13 Melexis chips. Melexis’ portfolio of sensors and driver ICs also serves smart appliances, home automation, industrial and medical applications. Melexis also manufactures magnetic sensors, MEMS sensors (pressure, tyre pressure monitoring system and infra red versions), sensor interface ICs, optoelectronic single point and linear array sensors and time of flight sensors. The company’s driver IC portfolio incorporates advanced DC and brushless DC (BLDC) motor controllers, LED drivers and FET pre-driver ICs.
Melexis is headquartered in Belgium.
