3D position sensors are ASIL C ready

TDK Corp. has extended its Micronas 3D HAL position sensor line, adding the HAL 3930-4100 and HAR 3930-4100 devices. These new 3D position sensors target automotive and industrial applications, including steering angle position detection, transmission position detection, shifter position detection and accelerator and brake pedal position detection.

The sensors deliver precise position detection with robust stray-field compensation, offering user-configurable PWM or SENT output interfaces for greater adaptability. They are defined as Safety Element out of Context (SEooC) ASIL C ready (ISO 26262) for integration into automotive safety-related systems up to ASIL D.

(Source: TDK Corp.)

The sensors introduce a switch output with versatile high-/low-side switch configurations. The switch signal originates from calculated position data or other sources along the device’s signal path, such as temperature or magnetic-field amplitude.

The HAL 3930-4100 and HAR 3930-4100 devices conduct self-tests upon start up and during regular operation to enhance reliability. These tests either prevent the sensor from giving incorrect readings or report errors via the SENT or the PWM interface.

The HAR 3930-4100 is the dual-die version of the HAL 3930-4100, which provides full redundancy. It features two independent stacked dies, separated mechanically and electrically. While measuring nearly identical magnetic fields, they ensure synchronized output signals. Smaller PCBs and fewer solder joints increase system dependability.

The HAL sensors offer a range of measurement capabilities including 360° angular measurements, linear movement tracking and the provision of 3D position data for magnets. On-chip signal processing computes up to two angles from magnetic-field components, converting them into a digital output signal so that customers can fine-tune essential parameters including gain, offset and reference position through non-volatile memory programming, ensuring seamless alignment with their specific magnetic circuitry requirements, TDK said.

Other features include stray-field 360°C rotary and linear position detection up to 35 mm, high robustness against mechanical misalignment between the sensor and magnet in rotary setups, optimized design that supports rotary setups together with ferrite magnets, and suitability for automotive applications thanks to a wide ambient temperature range from -40°C to 160°C.

The HAR 3930-4100 is available in a compact SSOP16 package, while the single-die variant is housed in a SOIC8 package. Samples are now available on request. Production is planned for January 2024.