Integrated solution for automotive actuation applications

Melexis has a new integrated sense and brushed motor drive solution that is essentially intended for automotive automation applications such as seat movement, window lift and sunroofs. The two-IC solution can combine sensing directly into the drive electronics, which simplifies and shortens the design task for engineers creating low-cost, high-performance automotive solutions. The MLX81325 is an integrated smart motor pre-driver with LIN capability and a protocol controller, housed in a tiny QFN32 32-pin 5mm x 5mm package which allows fine PowerFET control for efficient, low-noise brushed motor drive with smooth start and stop. The integrated solution comprises four FET PWM pre-drivers, 32k Flash memory and 16k ROM. There are multiple diagnostic functions built in, and current sense allows intelligent anti-pinch protection. Eight I/O lines enable direct connection of the company's position sensors, simplifying the system design – particularly the provision of self-learning soft-stop features. Commenting on the new release, Marc Lambrechts, product manager for Embedded Motor Drivers at Melexis, said: “When selecting automotive solutions designers are looking for a compact and highly integrated solution that will allow them to deliver the required functionality with minimal design effort and at a low cost. Combining our experience in sensing with motor drive technology has allowed us to meet that need with this solution. Furthermore, our advanced development kits and software debuggers significantly ease the development task for new and experienced designers.”