Function needs

The electronic control systems that optimize the performance of today's automobile engines need precise information concerning various components including:

• Throttle position, for closed-loop control of the throttle actuator by the ECU
• EGR valve position, used by the ECU to calculate the recirculation fl owrate and control the EGR valve actuator
• Turbocharger wastegate and variable geometry actuator positions, for closed-loop control by the ECU
• Turbocharger speed, an essential parameter for engine performance and turbocharger safety.

Sensors needs

The sensors that provide this information must offer:

• High accuracy
• Small size
• Fast response
• Easy integration
• High reliability
• Diagnostic capabilities
• lowest possible cost

Depending on where they are installed, they must also withstand severe environmental conditions:

• High temperatures
• Rapid temperature fluctuations
• Electromagnetic disturbances
• Vibrations
• Corrosive liquids

Electricfil solutions

Electricfil Automotive masters all leading sensor technologies to produce optimum sensing solutions for every need. The solution path is based on more than 25 years of experience in the field.

• Analysis of customer needs to select the most suitable sensor type from our proven core technologies (LVDT, Hall, Eddy-Current, GMR, AMR, VR, etc.)
• Determination of degree of integration (single sensor, sensor cluster or mechatronic module)
• Circuit design and ASIC development if required
• Selection of electronic components and assembly technology (e.g. surface mounted devices, discrete components)
• Package design, including the selection of materials (PA, PPS, PBT, etc.), assembly process (laser, thermal or vibration welding), potting, overmolding and encapsulation techniques, sizing, etc.
• Selection of interconnections (leadframe, flex foil, cable harness, etc.)
• Magnetic circuit design (magnet materials, pole piece dimensions, etc.)
• FMEA, reliability studies, computer simulations, prototyping, initial samples, etc.