Novosense Introduces 3D Dual-Output Hall Latch To Boost Motor Control Precision

Novosense Microelectronics has announced the release of its MT73xx series of 3D dual-output Hall latches, a product line aimed at advancing precision and integration in automotive motor control systems. Designed to meet the demanding requirements of Automotive Grade 0, these new components target a range of systems, from power windows and liftgates to sunroofs, by offering a more streamlined and reliable alternative to traditional motor sensing solutions.

Unlike traditional Hall latch systems that utilize two separate chips to detect speed and direction, the MT73xx series integrates speed and direction detection in one chip. Image used courtesy of Novosense Microelectronics

3D Dual-Output Hall Latches

Conventional approaches to motor control often rely on two separate Hall latches to detect motor speed and direction. This dual-latch setup can introduce complexities, primarily related to signal phase deviation and the need for a larger physical footprint on the printed circuit board (PCB). The spatial separation of the two components can lead to inconsistencies in sensing, which in turn may compromise the accuracy and stability of the motor’s control loop. The structural complexity also necessitates more careful PCB layout and component placement, adding to the overall design and manufacturing burden.

The MT73xx series dual-output Hall latches addresses these challenges by integrating a single-chip solution based on a 3D Hall sensing structure. This approach eliminates the need for two discrete latches, allowing for the precise measurement of two orthogonal magnetic field components. This inherent design simplifies the system’s architecture and improves the overall stability of the detection process by removing the potential for phase deviation that can occur between two physically separate sensors. The integrated design also helps to reduce the total bill of materials and saves valuable PCB real estate, which is a significant advantage in compact automotive applications.

SS or SD Dual-Channel Outputs

A key technical feature of the MT73xx series is its support for both speed and speed (SS) and speed and direction (SD) dual-channel outputs. This flexibility allows a single component to cater to different control schemes, providing engineers with more options for system design. By directly outputting speed and direction information to the electronic control unit, the need for additional signal processing or dedicated position sensors is minimized. This direct communication path further simplifies the system architecture and reduces potential points of failure, contributing to a more robust and reliable design.

The MT73xx series aims to mitigate synchronization issues and signal phase deviation in auto motor control applications. Image used courtesy of Novosense Microelectronics

Enhancing Automotive Motor Control

The MT73xx series utilizes Novosense’s Vertical Hall Sensor technology to achieve its high-precision 3D sensing capabilities. This technology enables the sensor to accurately detect magnetic fields in multiple dimensions, making it compatible with a wide variety of magnetic ring configurations commonly used in brushless DC motors. This compatibility reduces development complexity and allows for a more standardized approach to motor control across different automotive platforms.

Beyond the technical specifications, the shift towards a single-chip, integrated solution aligns with broader trends in automotive electronics toward higher levels of system integration. By consolidating multiple functions into a single component, the MT73xx series helps engineers meet the ongoing demand for more compact, efficient, and cost-effective designs. The simplification of the motor control circuit not only streamlines the design process but can also contribute to improved manufacturability and long-term system reliability. The MT73xx series represents a measured, technical advancement in a critical area of automotive design, offering a practical solution to challenges in motor control sensing.