Sensata Debuts New Line of MSG Sensors for Next-Gen Brake Systems

Just recently, Sensata Technologies has developed a line of smaller, lighter Micro-fused Strain Gage (MSG) pressure sensors for use in the next generation of brake systems for electric, hybrid and conventional vehicles. The extra-small form factor (XFF) sensor has been made available for design last month.

Jeff Silveria, Sensata’s Performance Sensing Segment manager for global chassis, observes that to ensure usual braking feel in electric and hybrid vehicles, hybrid systems need extra pressure sensors. He notes that by supplying their caliber of pressure sensing in a smaller and lighter package, their customers can embrace a number of sensors without growing their module.

The company’s automotive MSG pressure technology will now be available at less than 5 grams, with a body diameter less than 7.8mm, and a height less than 30mm, including its cutting-edge spring contact system. This offers system manufacturers a new level of design flexibility, including industry-leading performance.

The all-new XFF platform employs a modular port design, catering to wide-ranging system pressures, and a modular circuit architecture providing high-fault-detectability, which enables system manufacturers to meet technical safety requirements associated with ISO26262.

The all-new MSG technology offers digital and analog integrated pressure and temperature signal conditioning which delivers a precise, steady signal over wide operating temperature and pressure ranges.

According to Vineet Nargolwala, Vice President and General Manager, Automotive Performance Sensing in North America, Japan and Korea, beyond hybrid and electric vehicles, this MSG form factor is ideal for integrated brake modules which eliminate the vacuum booster. He adds that this development enables enhanced fuel economy and improved emergency braking performance in all types of vehicles.