Micro-Fused Strain Gauge Pressure Sensors

February 4, 2016

Ryan Gehm

Sensata Technologies, Inc. has developed a line of smaller, lighter micro-fused strain gauge (MSG) pressure sensors for use in next-generation brake systems for hybrid, electric, and conventional vehicles. The eXtra-small Form Factor (XFF) sensor is available for design-in beginning January 2016. To ensure traditional braking feel in hybrid and electric vehicles, brake systems require additional pressure sensors; offering a smaller, lighter package allows customers to adopt multiple sensors without growing their module. Sensata’s automotive MSG pressure technology will now be offered at less than 5 g (0.18 oz), with a body diameter less than 7.8 mm (0.3 in) and a height less than 30 mm (1.2 in), including its spring contact system. The new XFF platform utilizes a modular port design, catering to a range of system pressures, and a modular circuit architecture offering high-fault-detectability, enabling system manufacturers to meet technical safety requirements associated with ISO26262. The MSG technology offers analog and digital integrated pressure and temperature signal conditioning, delivering an accurate, stable signal over operating temperatures of -40 to +140°C (-40 to +284°F) and a range of pressures. Beyond hybrid and electric vehicles, this MSG form factor is suitable for integrated brake modules that eliminate the vacuum booster. For more information, visit http://sensata.com/ .