Automotive-Grade Integrated Circuits for Managing DC Motor Operations in Standard Vehicles
Brushed DC Motors Remain Prevalent in Modern Automotive Systems
Brushed DC motors, a technology dating back to the 1830s, continue to be widely used in modern automotive systems for applications such as electric sunroofs, windshield wipers, powered windows, and adjustable seats. Their simplicity, cost-effectiveness, compact size, and ease of control make them a practical choice in automotive systems where cost, simplicity, and adequate performance outweigh the advantages of brushless designs.
One of the virtues of brushed DC motors is that they can operate directly from the power source, reducing system complexity and cost[1]. Compared to brushless DC motors (BLDC) and stepper motors, brushed DC motors are generally more affordable and simpler to implement since they don’t require electronic controllers for commutation[1]. However, they do have issues like brush wear and electromagnetic interference (EMI), but advances in driver ICs can mitigate some performance drawbacks[1].
BLDC motors, on the other hand, hold advantages such as higher efficiency and reliability due to the absence of brushes, less maintenance, and no sparking[2]. They also offer better speed and torque control with electronic commutation, making them ideal for applications requiring precise and dynamic performance[2]. BLDC motors are preferred for more demanding or efficiency-critical applications, while stepper motors are chosen when precise, incremental positioning is required[1][2][3].
In summary, brushed DC motors offer a balance of cost, control, and performance for specific tasks in automotive systems. Here's a comparison of the three motor types:
| Feature | Brushed DC Motors | Brushless DC Motors (BLDC) | Stepper Motors | |-----------------------------|-----------------------------------|-----------------------------------------|---------------------------------------| | Control Complexity | Simple, direct power supply | Requires electronic controller | Requires complex driver and feedback | | Cost | Low | Higher initial cost | Moderate to high | | Maintenance | Brushes wear over time | Minimal maintenance | Low, but depends on application | | Efficiency | Moderate | High | Moderate to low | | Noise and EMI | Higher | Low | Moderate | | Application Examples | Wipers, powered windows, sunroofs | HVAC fans, fuel pumps, traction motors | Precise positioning in robotics |
Toshiba Electronic Devices & Storage Corp. has introduced the TB9M001FTG, a motor control driver for brushed DC motors in automotive applications. The driver includes robust safety features such as overcurrent, overvoltage, undervoltage, and thermal-shutdown protection. It operates from a single power supply between 6.0 and 18 V and is AEC-Q100 (Grade 1) qualified and meets ASIL A requirements[4]. The TB9M001FTG integrates four low-side drivers that function as relay drivers, enabling control of two brushed DC motors.
References: [1] https://www.electronicproducts.com/articles/2019/02/brushed-dc-motors-vs-brushless-dc-motors.aspx [2] https://www.electronicproducts.com/articles/2018/02/brushed-dc-motors-vs-stepper-motors.aspx [3] https://www.electronicproducts.com/articles/2019/02/brushed-dc-motors-vs-brushless-dc-motors-and-stepper-motors.aspx [4] https://toshiba.semicon-storage.com/info/lookup.jsp?pid=TB9M001FTG
- Brushed DC motors, like other technology components, have their applications extending beyond the automotive industry, finding a place in various gadgets due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of control.
- The finance sector, recognizing the importance of innovation in transportation, has invested significantly in research and development for brushless DC motors, seeking their higher efficiency and reliability for use in automotive systems and other transportation devices.
- In the realm of technology, the development of advanced driver ICs for brushed DC motors not only addresses the issue of brush wear and electromagnetic interference but also opens up opportunities for their applications in industries beyond automotive, such as finance and transportation, where precision and dynamic performance are crucial.
