Electronic measurement technology company LEM has launched a range of new single sensor (SMU) to provide accurate measurement of the state of charge (SOC) for electric and hybrid vehicle technologies.
The SMU constantly monitors vehicle parameters such as battery performance and safety systems. The sensor identifies anomalies and supports diagnostics, helping to improve vehicle efficiency and ensure compliance.
The compact unit measures 29.1mm x 35.5 mm x 49.9 mm and the bus bar thickness is matched by 2 mm to 3 mm to improve accuracy and allow for a range of different bus bar sizes.
The SMU uses the latest LEM9 application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) to measure environmental factors while ensuring accurate sensor performance at the Battery Disconnect Unit (BDU) level. It has built-in software algorithms that can adjust or correct measurement data to account for distortions or errors caused by mechanical stress, making it possible to reach 1% accuracy up to 1300 A and <1.7% up to 1500 A, according to the company.
Other features include digital calibration, which provides end-to-end (E2E) protection, improved offset/sensitivity calibration, and diagnostic alerts such as under-voltage or overvoltage.
A dedicated safe mode prevents malfunctions if problems such as sensitivity and drift, temperature measurement errors, or memory errors are detected. The sensor's internal microcontroller includes a built-in algorithm to correct the magnetic offset, ensuring more accurate and reliable sensor readings by eliminating errors caused by residual magnetism. The high isolation levels of the sensor enable it to withstand voltage differences greater than 800 V between components or between the device and its surroundings, preventing electrical interference or damage.
The new SMU family complies with the Automotive Safety Integrity Level (ASIL) requirements built into the ISO 26262 standard for operational safety in vehicles.
Source: LEM
