Cars need smaller motors that work well and are safe. A new sensor can help make motors smaller, stronger, and easier to build into cars.
Automakers need smaller, slimmer motor modules that don’t compromise on performance, safety, or reliability. In seat actuators, sunroofs, and thermal expansion valves, multiple motors must fit into tight spaces without reducing adjustability, comfort, or safety compliance. OEMs are under constant pressure to reduce vehicle weight, increase cabin space, improve in-cabin features, and support automated production methods.
The MLX92211, Integrated Magnetic Concentrator (IMC) from Melexis solves these challenges by integrating a magnetic concentrator in a surface-mount TSOT-3L package. This eliminates through-hole components and enables lower motor height, better packaging flexibility, and easier automated assembly. The result is compact motors and actuators that meet strict automotive size, performance, and safety requirements.
Designed for lateral magnetic position sensing, the IMC provides strong ESD protection and a high output current limit, enabling reliable operation in harsh automotive environments. It supports both 3-wire and 2-wire setups, with a 30 mA current limit that easily handles continuous current needs, such as those in seat motors. Its advanced offset cancellation ensures fast, accurate, and stable sensing even when temperature and mechanical stress vary.
With a wide operating voltage range, integrated voltage regulator, and open-drain output driver, the IMC provides consistent and reliable sensor performance. Its negative temperature coefficient helps maintain sensitivity despite the natural loss of magnet strength at higher temperatures.
“With the MLX92211 IMC, we’ve responded directly to the automotive industry’s demand for more compact, application-optimized motor latch sensors,” said Minko Daskalov, Product Line Manager at Melexis. “By enabling lateral magnetic sensing in a robust and cost-effective format, it allows engineers to reduce actuator height, increase motor integration within tight spaces – all while maintaining the performance and protection levels expected in modern automotive environments.”
The sensor also offers 8 kV ESD protection, automatic output shut-off with self-recovery, and functional safety readiness (ASIL A), giving designers the confidence needed for safety-critical automotive applications.
