Melexis introduces magnetic encoder

The MLX90382 offers seamless integration including into micro-motors. Featuring 14-bit resolution, differential outputs and a speed range of up to 200k e-RPM, it is ideal for industrial automation, robotics, and mobility solutions.

As the utilisation of robotic and automated solutions continues to expand, transitioning from specialised high-end applications to more widespread applications, the demand for cost-effective and accurate encoders that provide essential motion feedback within these systems also increases. The need for high-speed encoder feedback is essential in guaranteeing the correct functioning and safety of electric motor-driven applications, such as robotic arms, automated packaging machines, and industrial weaving machines.

The MLX90382 is a magnetic position sensor IC that combines a Hall magnetic front end, an analog-to-digital converter, on-chip digital signal processing with zero latency, and multiple output drivers. The device utilises the most recent advancement in Melexis Triaxis technology, bringing their expertise in magnetic positional sensing into high-speed encoder devices. By detecting the three components of the magnetic flux density (Bx, By, and Bz) and measuring the differential magnetic field in the Z-axis, the MLX90382 enables precise tracking of absolute angle position and speed. It can achieve speeds of up to 200’000 rpm and has a stray-field immunity of 360^o up to 4 kA/m.

Helping to overcome typical assembly challenges associated with complex motor driven applications, the MLX90382 offers the convenience of both on and off-axis mounting. This enables the IC to provide support for hollow shaft applications, thereby allowing the passage of wiring looms or other components through the shaft without affecting encoder feedback – removing some design complexity and driving innovation.

The MLX90382 is available in a compact, RoHS compliant, single-die 4 x 4 mm² QFN-24, supporting 5 V and 3.3 V applications. Reliability is guaranteed with both variants featuring AEC-Q100 (Grade 0) qualification. In addition, the on-axis configuration supports safety standards with SIL2 integrations.

The MLX90382 offers five different output modes designed to serve a wide range of applications. These consist of an industry-standard differential ABI/UVW interface for incremental angular output, an emulation of UVW signals typically used in BLDC motors, a PWM interface, as well as configurable SPI and SSI interfaces. Operating across a wide temperature range of -40°C to 150°C, this sensor is ideal for demanding environments.

“With the MLX90382, we have taken the value of Melexis Triaxis technology and applied it to magnetic rotary encoders,” explained Atanas Dikov, Regional Marketing Manager, Melexis. “This exciting addition to our lineup will help to drive innovation across a wide variety of robotic and motor-driven applications, offering accurate and reliable operation for years to come.”