TDK Corp. has announced the new TAD2141 TMR (tunnel magneto resistance) angle sensor with digital output. The new sensor offers a guaranteed accuracy of ±0.2° and at room temperature achieves an angle error of only ±0.05° when an automatic correction function is activated. The sensor is capable of contactless sensing over 360° within a temperature range of -40 °C to +150 °C. Furthermore, the new TAD2141 sensor represents a level of miniaturization and weight-saving in comparison with conventional solutions using resolvers. Engineering samples of TAD2141 are already available, while certifications according to ISO26262 and ASIL are under preparation.
The automatic correction function available with the TAD2141 reduces the design-in effort. Moreover, the new angle sensor is equipped with a self-diagnostic function that detects not only an abnormality in the sensor itself, but also any abnormalities in the exterior environment, such as a power failure or loss of the magnetic field. Thanks to the integrated ASIC, this sensor is capable of digital output with various interfaces, such as SPI, Hall-Emulation (HSM), PWM, and encoder (AZB). It also uses the ASIC design technology from ICsense, an ASIC design specialist, which TDK acquired in March 2017.The main applications of the new sensor include industrial and robotics applications, as well as automotive applications focusing on future systems for automated driving. Specifically, the device can detect of angle of rotation in automotive applications, such as electric power steering (EPS) drives and brushless motors, as well as steering angle and pedal positions. It can also detect angle of rotation of motors in industrial applications, robot linkages, drones, and actuator position. The range of possible applications will be further extended in the future.
The new TMR angle sensor will be exhibited alongside TDK’s wide range of sensors at Sensors Expo in San Jose, which will be held on June 28-29.