Infineon Technologies has launched MOTIX TLE9189 gate driver IC, specifically designed for safety-critical applications involving 12 V brushless DC (BLDC) motors.

With the introduction of this new three-phase gate driver IC, Infineon aims to address the increasing demand for motor control ICs needed for by-wire solutions.

As the driver IC is qualified to AEC Q100 Grade 0 and ISO 26262 (ASIL D), it is claimed to be suitable for brake-by-wire and steer-by-wire systems, which are set to replace traditional mechanical connections in the future.

The newly unveiled MOTIX TLE9189 is available in two different packages, the TQFP-48 and the VQFN-48.

The device operates within a supply voltage range of 4.2V to 36V, and optimised for 12V automotive battery systems.

It incorporates a traditional motor control concept with PWM input and integrated current sense amplifiers for precise current sensing, offering high flexibility and granularity for gate sequencing compared to other devices.

Furthermore, several monitoring and diagnostic functions are incorporated that help in the monitoring of the device, the inverter, the microcontroller and the MCU interfaces.

The product also includes Infineon’s patented adaptive MOSFET control function, designed to enhance EMC performance, meet target switching times, and minimize power losses.

Infineon senior vice president and general manager for smart power Andreas Doll: “With the TLE9189 we are introducing the 4th generation automotive 3-phase smart gate driver IC to the market.

“It offers enhanced functionalities and unique features for intelligent motor control supporting the increasing demand of our customers for by-wire-solutions.

 “The high reliability of the motor control design enabled by our new device is particularly important for safety-critical by-wire solutions”.

Infineon provides support materials to assist customers during the design-in process, including technical documentation such as application notes. Furthermore, simulation models, configuration tools, and a complex device driver are available upon request.

In September this year, the ZF Group and Infineon Technologies AG have collaboratively developed and implemented AI algorithms for vehicle software development and control as part of the EEmotion project.