Smart IVT current sensors achieve ASIL C(D)

Melexis has reached ASIL C safety compliance with its smart IVT (current, voltage, temperature) sensing platform. The Hall-effect MLX91230 and Shunt interface MLX91231 simplify the achievement of ISO 26262 ASIL C(D) architecture for critical vehicle functions such as BMS, smart pyrofuses, and high-voltage charging systems.

Current sensing plays an essential role in critical vehicle functions, such as BMS, smart pyrofuses, and high-voltage charging systems. As a result, ensuring a high level of functional safety is imperative. Thanks to the company, the burden of designing ASIL C(D) systems has been lifted with the new qualification of the intelligent Melexis MLX91230 and MLX91231.

Both devices integrate a wide range of smart functionality, including the MCU with onboard flash memory that supports custom software deployment and extensive compensation of system imperfections. The diagnosable OCD permits direct input to the Pyro-Fuse driver, allowing the simple deployment of smart pyrofuses with fewer components. Furthermore, the ASIL C safety level applies to the current sensing function and OCD as well as the additional temperature and voltage measurement channels. The selectable LIN or UART output allows integration with 12V battery applications and power distribution modules and direct communication with BMS or UART-over-CAN.

“In the automotive world, functional safety is a critical requirement, but reaching ASIL C compliance can be a significant endeavour,” said Bruno Boury, product line director at Melexis. “By reaching ASIL C compliance to both the MLX91230 and MLX91231, we are enhancing already highly accurate and feature-rich solutions while also making it easier for engineers to achieve higher levels of functional safety.”