High Precision RV1S9353A modulator lends a hand to robotic arms

To meet the demand for high-accuracy optical isolation to improve accuracy control in industrial instruments, Renesas Electronics has introduced the RV1S9353A. It is claimed to provide best-in-class precision sensing features, including lower offset voltage drift, higher signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), lower reference voltage drift verus temperature and higher input resistance.

The optically isolated delta sigma modulator is claimed to deliver the industry’s highest accuracy compared to other 10MHz clock output optically isolated devices. It includes a precision ADC with, typically, 13.8 effective number of bits (ENOB) for converting an analogue voltage input into a digital output one-bit data stream across the isolation barrier. The RV1S9353A connects directly to Renesas’ RZ/T microprocessor and RX72M microcontroller, or other microprocessors, microcontrollers, SoCs and FPGAs with a digital filter. The RV1S9353A is used in robotic arm controllers, as well as AC servo controllers and NC servo controllers in a range of smart factory equipment.

To standardise designs during development and design certification, the RV1S9353A has 500kOhm typical input resistance making it capable of both current sensing and voltage monitoring for easier design, explains Renesas. The delta sigma modulator’s digital output and connected digital filter removes the need for complex multi-component designs that use a traditional analogue isolation amplifier with analogue filter and several other components.

Chris Stephens, vice president of communications and motor control, industrial and communications business division at Renesas, elaborates: “Its higher input resistance and ability to provide both current sensing and voltage monitoring simplifies design and saves costs while meeting the UL, CSA and VDE safety standards.”

The RV1S9353A modulator has an input offset voltage drift versus temperature (max) of 2.5 microV per degrees C and a typical SNR of 85dB. Reference voltage (max) gain error is ±0.5 per cent and typical reference voltage drift versus temperature is 30ppm per degrees C. High input resistance is rated at 500kOhm (typical) and the high common mode transient immunity is typically 25kV per micro second

The RV1S9353A is supplied in an eight-pin SDIP with 1.27mm pin pitch.

The RV1S9353A delta sigma modulator is available now from Renesas’ worldwide distributors.

http://www.rensas.com

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Speech synthesis IC promises superior audio playback for ADAS and AVAS

Automotive speech synthesis ICs in the ML2253x series are optimised for audible notifications and sound effects in advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) and acoustic vehicle alerting system (AVAS).

The ML2253x speech synthesis ICs can reduce overall system costs and simplify hardware and software design, says Rohm.

The IC uses the HQ-ADPCM compression method, claimed to provide superior audio playback with reduced memory usage for storing audio data.

The integrated sound continuity detection re-digitises the analogue speaker output signal and compares it with the playback data stored in the internal or external memory. The main microcontroller receives a feedback in case the data is exceeding a pre-defined value e.g. in case of skipping.

The IC has detection functions built in, including short-circuit, high temperature, and command transfer error detection, improving reliability in automotive applications, says Rohm.

The memory content can be updated through the main microcontroller, once connected to a communication network, such as the IoT.

Lapis Semiconductor offers the SDCK3 development tool that allows users to create voice data as well as prepare, write, and listen to ROM data stored in the speech synthesis IC. Combining SDCK3 with an optional reference board enables both hardware and software to be evaluated.

Rohm Semiconductor develops and manufactures a large product range from the low power microcontroller, power management, standard ICs, SiC diodes, MOSFETs and modules, power transistors and diodes, LEDs to passives components such as resistors, tantalum capacitors and LED display units.

Production is at manufacturing plants in Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines and China.

Lapis Semiconductor (former OKI Semiconductor), SiCrystal GmbH and Kionix are companies of the Rohm Semiconductor Group.

Rohm Semiconductor Europe has its head office near Dusseldorf on Germany, serving Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).

http://www.rohm.com/eu

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Distance awareness devices rely on ToF proximity sensors

Amsterdam-based start-up, Aura Aware, is using ST’s FlightSense time of flight (ToF) technology in a smart distance-awareness portable device for use at retail counters and check-in desks.

The device displays a green OK signal that changes to red if a person crosses a safe, minimum distance threshold.

The VL53L1X compact ToF proximity and ranging sensor is used in the Aura Aware devices. It has an operating range of up to four metres and very low power consumption. Signal processing is built into the sensor, simplifying design. It also provides features such as crosstalk compensation that maintains measurement accuracy even if the sensor window becomes obscured by foreign material.

ToF sensors transmit photons and then calculate distance to the target based on the time it takes for the reflected photons to be received back by the sensor. Ranging accuracy is unaffected by surface characteristics of the  target, such as clothing colour or skin reflectivity, which is a characteristic that makes it particularly suitable for devices designed to help people maintain social distancing.

The sensors can also help users avoid contact with surfaces, including self service touchscreens, smart water taps and pushbutton door openers, located in high-traffic areas. The speed and precision of ToF sensing enable FlightSense sensors to manage basic on/off control as well as to detect and interpret gestures like tapping and swiping for smart touchless human machine interaction.

Another advantage is the linear response when measuring short distances. It allows them to be used inside dispensing machines to detect the level of hand-sanitising liquid or the number of personal protective items such as face masks.

The FlightSense ToF sensors are in production now. Samples are available on request.

STMicroelectronics specialises in semiconductor technologies, including the semiconductor supply chain and manufacturing facilities. The independent device manufacturer works with customers and partners to design and build products, solutions and ecosystems and technologies that enable smarter mobility, more efficient power and energy management, and the wide-scale deployment of the Internet of Things and 5G technology.

http://www.st.com

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LIN interface sensor signal conditioner reduces BoM for EVs/HEVs

An integrated LIN interface sensor signal conditioner, the ZSSC4132, is claimed to deliver best in class performance in a compact form factor for us in climate control systems for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs).

The automotive pressure sensor has an integrated, certified LIN v2.2a interface and backwards compatibility to LIN v1.3, v2.0 and v2.1. The single-package sensor signal conditioner (SSC) can be configured for nearly all resistive bridge sensors, says Renesas. Slave node position detection feature at the LIN bus allows the SSC to assign a unique ID to the device

It has integrated LIN PHY, AEC-Q100Grade 0 qualifications and is in a small package footprint suitable for automotive sensor modules where space and budgets are limited.

The availability of a LIN-certified sensor enables OEMS to easily and cost-effectively scale HVAC system development for mid-range to high endEVs and HEVs, said Christian Wolf, vice president, Automotive Sensor Business Division at Renesas.

The ZSSC4132 combines 12 to 14bit ADC resolution and analogue front end (AFE) technology for enhanced sensor signal conditioning as well as digital calibration to reduce the noise sensitivity and deliver accuracy to ±0.5 per cent for pressure and temperature readings from -40 to +150 degrees C, claims Renesas. The SSC’s integration reduces overall bill of material (BoM) requirements by minimising the need for external components. Its digital calibration feature allows customers to minimise calibration efforts, further reducing overall system costs, added the company.

 It also include over-voltage and reverse-polarity protection circuitry, electromagnetic compatibility and multiple diagnostic features.

The ZSSC4132 is available now in a 4.0 x 4.0mm, 24-lead QFN package. An evaluation kit for the ZSSC4132 is also available.

Renesas Electronics provides embedded design with semiconductors that enable billions of connected, intelligent devices to enhance the way people work and live. The company specialises in microcontrollers, analogy, power and SoC products intended for a broad range of automotive, industrial, infrastructure and IoT applications.

http://renesas.com

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