Renesas IPS Technology: Precision for Automation

On October 25, 2023, Renesas Electronics (TSE: 6723), a renowned global provider of semiconductor solutions, proudly introduced an innovative Inductive Position Sensor (IPS) technology designed for high-precision motor position sensing integrated circuits (ICs) tailored for a wide spectrum of applications, including robotics, industrial automation, and healthcare.

This groundbreaking position sensing technology leverages non-contact coil sensors to provide a cost-effective and superior alternative to the costly magnetic and optical encoders commonly employed in motor control systems that demand absolute position sensing, high-speed operation, precision, and reliability.

Renesas' proprietary IPS technology relies on copper coils etched onto printed circuit boards (PCBs) to accurately detect the position of metallic targets. Distinguishing itself from its magnetic counterparts, IPS products can operate at speeds of up to 600,000 rotations per minute (in electrical terms) and deliver instant position detection upon startup, with an astonishingly low propagation delay of under 2 microseconds. This makes IPS technology an ideal fit for high-speed rotating motors. Furthermore, this sensor technology supports automatic calibration and linearization, guaranteeing consistent performance throughout the motor's entire operational life.

The dual-coil sensor technology, founded on the cursor principle, boasts resolutions of up to 19 bits and precision of up to 14 bits, outperforming similar products available in the market. These sensors are robust and durable, capable of reliable operation even in harsh environments characterized by high temperatures, dust, humidity, vibrations, and electromagnetic interference (EMI). Inductive sensors remain unaffected by stray magnetic fields, require minimal maintenance, and are less prone to errors when contrasted with magnetic sensors. These attributes position inductive position sensors as the preferred choice when compared to traditional optical or magnetic encoders, which tend to be heavier and more expensive.

“Our induction position sensor technology represents a significant leap forward in motor position sensors,” said Jan Leuckfeld, Senior Director, HPC Analog (Sensor) Division at Renesas. “They will enable us to provide differentiated motor position sensor ICs for industrial applications that are robust, highly accurate and cost-effective.”

“Position sensors for factory floors must endure extreme conditions such as humidity, high temperatures and vibration,” said Ulrich Marl, Key Account Manager at Lenord+Bauer, a Renesas customer and a leading manufacturer of encoders for industrial systems. “Through our collaboration with Renesas, we’ve integrated IPS-based technology into our encoder portfolio to ensure reliability and safety, while reducing downtime in critical applications.”

Inductive position sensor technology is fully compatible with prevalent communication interfaces such as UART, ABI, and I²C, thereby facilitating effortless integration into industrial networks for real-time monitoring and data analysis. Furthermore, this state-of-the-art sensor technology will be supported by an extensive toolchain, including specialized software for user customization and precision optimization. Renesas is dedicated to integrating these new sensors with a diverse array of compatible devices within their product portfolio, creating a holistic "success product bundle" that synergizes seamlessly to deliver users optimized, low-risk designs and expedited product launches. For more in-depth information, please visit: renesas.com/win.

Key Features of the New Sensor Using IPS Technology:

· Speed: Up to 600,000 rotations per minute (electrical)

· Resolution: Up to 19 bits

· Precision: Up to 14 bits

· Digital Interfaces: UART, ABI, I²C

· Extended Temperature Range: -40°C to +160°C

· Two Voltage Supply Ranges: 3.3V ±10% or 5.0V ±10%

· Overvoltage, Reverse Polarity, and Short-Circuit Protection: Supply and output pins are rated at ±18V

· Adaptable to any full-scale angle range through coil design.