Smart LIN motor pre-driver assists high power mechatronic miniaturisation

It addresses automotive mechatronic applications – including oil pumps, engine cooling fans, and BLDC positioning actuators. The device is also used in robotic systems and e-bikes/e-scooters.

As well as being able to support operation up to 1000W from a 12V supply, the MLX81346 is also uniquely positioned to reach 2000W from a 48V supply. Its high-voltage capabilities come from the silicon-on-insulator (SOI) technology it relies on.

The MLX81346 features a 16-bit embedded microcontroller unit (MCU), a 64KB flash memory, plus a LIN software stack and LIN interface (for connecting to in-vehicle networking infrastructure). It has 12 GPIOs including 3x high-voltage I/Os, 2 UARTs, SPI and I2C. Rapid end-of-line programming via the LIN pin can be carried out by the customers with the support of Melexis’ recommended third parties.

The MLX81346 takes up minimal board space. It can be supplied in either a 32-pin QFN (5mm x 5mm) or a 48-pin TQFP48 (7mm x 7mm) packages. This compact pre-driver was developed as a SEooC (Safety Element out of Context) with ASIL B capability. An operational temperature range of -40°C to 150°C is supported. All essential circuit protection functions are also incorporated.

“The MLX8146 completes our third generation of embedded drivers. The family now includes the LIN drivers MLX81330 and MLX81332 for 1..10 W applications, and the LIN pre-drivers MLX81340, MLX81344 and MLX81346 for 10..2000 W applications,” says Marc Lambrechts, Product Line Manager for Embedded Motor Drivers. “With the MLX81346, Melexis is the first company to bring a fully integrated 48V pre-driver System-on-Chip (SoC) to the market. It helps our customers in the automotive and robotic sector to develop compact solutions.”