AKM Achieves Successful Proof of Concept for eFuse in High Voltage 800 V Automotive Applications

Rhea-AI Summary

Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) and Silicon Austria Labs GmbH (SAL) have successfully completed a proof of concept (PoC) for eFuse technology in high-voltage applications using silicon carbide (SiC) power devices. This innovation aims to replace mechanical fuses in electric vehicles, offering enhanced safety and reduced maintenance costs. The coreless current sensor CZ39 series, developed by AKM, features a response time of 100 ns, enabling rapid overcurrent detection and system shutdown. The eFuse system is particularly useful for next-generation high-voltage EV systems, such as on-board chargers (OBCs). AKM and SAL anticipate a positive market impact and plan to present their findings at PCIM Europe 2024.

Positive

• Successful proof of concept for eFuse technology in high-voltage applications.
• Enhanced safety and reduced maintenance costs for electric vehicles.
• Rapid response time of 100 ns with AKM's CZ39 coreless current sensor.
• Potential for smaller and lighter EV onboard chargers.
• Positive market impact anticipated.

Negative

• No immediate product launch date mentioned.
• Potentially high initial implementation costs for new technology.
• Reliance on continued collaboration with research institutions.

Door opener for compact, fast and reliable protection of e.g., on-board chargers or DC/DC converters for electric vehicles

TOKYO & NEW YORK & DÜSSELDORF, Germany--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Asahi Kasei Microdevices Corporation (AKM) and Silicon Austria Labs GmbH (SAL), the European research center for electronics and software based systems research, have successfully completed a joint proof of concept of the eFuse technology in high-voltage applications utilizing silicon carbide (SiC)-based power devices. The results show that the eFuse technology can significantly improve safety, as well as reducing material and maintenance costs of systems such as on-board chargers (OBC) in automobiles.

eFuse system jointly developed by AKM and SAL (Photo: Business Wire)

The popularity of SiC- and gallium nitride (GaN)-based power devices in electric vehicles and other high-voltage applications is on the rise. This makes it necessary to replace mechanical fuses – which have been utilized with conventional silicon (Si) based power converters – in order to immediately shut down the system when detecting an overcurrent, protecting the devices and avoiding costly maintenance.

AKM is producing the CZ39 series, a coreless current sensor with a response time of 100 ns. Its fast response capability and high accuracy allow for precise detection of overcurrent and quick system shutdown. In a joint technical verification together with the Austrian research center SAL, AKM has developed the eFuse system which solves the challenges of conventional protection systems using mechanical fuses. This solution provides the overcurrent and short circuit protection required for next-generation high-voltage EV systems with SiC- and GaN-based power devices, such as OBCs. Furthermore, the current sensor integrated into the eFuse can efficiently regulate the current in connected subsystems, thereby reducing the overall part count.

“With this joint technology validation, we have set a new standard for eFuse technology, and we are proud to combine AKM's expertise with SAL's research capabilities to achieve this innovative result. We expect that the eFuse technology will contribute to smaller and lighter EV onboard chargers," said Toshinori Takatsuka, General Manager of AKM's current sensor business.

“By utilizing the latest AKM current sensing technologies, we can improve the reaction time of eFuses and the protection of wide-bandgap power converters,” said Thomas Langbauer, Team Lead within the Power Electronics Division at SAL.

AKM will present the results of the joint research with SAL at PCIM Europe 2024 (Nuremberg, Germany) in June. In addition, the two companies are discussing further steps as they anticipate a positive market impact.

About Silicon Austria Labs (SAL)

Silicon Austria Labs GmbH (SAL) was founded in 2018 as a top non-university research center for electronics and software based systems. At its locations in Graz, Villach and Linz, research is conducted on key technologies in the fields of Microsystems, Sensor Systems, Power Electronics, Intelligent Wireless Systems and Embedded Systems. SAL brings together key players from industry and science and thus valuable expertise and know-how, and conducts cooperative, application-oriented research along the value chain.

More information about SAL is available at https://silicon-austria-labs.com/

About Asahi Kasei Microdevices

The Asahi Kasei Group contributes to life and living for people around the world. Since its foundation in 1922 with ammonia and cellulose fiber business, Asahi Kasei has consistently grown through the proactive transformation of its business portfolio to meet the evolving needs of every age. With more than 48,000 employees worldwide, the company contributes to sustainable society by providing solutions to the world’s challenges through its three business sectors of Material, Homes, and Health Care. For more information, visit www.asahi-kasei.com.

Asahi Kasei is also dedicated to sustainability initiatives and is contributing to reaching a carbon neutral society by 2050. To learn more, visit https://www.asahi-kasei.com/sustainability/.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240603092090/en/

North America:

Asahi Kasei America Inc.

Christian OKeefe

christian.okeefe@ak-america.com

Europe:

Asahi Kasei Europe GmbH

Sebastian Schmidt

sebastian.schmidt@asahi-kasei.eu

Source: Asahi Kasei Microdevices Corporation

FAQ

What is the significance of AKM's eFuse technology?

AKM's eFuse technology improves safety and reduces maintenance costs in high-voltage applications, such as electric vehicles, by replacing mechanical fuses with a faster, more reliable solution.

What is the response time of AKM's CZ39 coreless current sensor?

The response time of AKM's CZ39 coreless current sensor is 100 nanoseconds, allowing for rapid overcurrent detection and system shutdown.

When will AKM present the results of their joint research with SAL?

AKM will present the results of their joint research with SAL at PCIM Europe 2024 in June.

How does AKM's eFuse technology impact electric vehicles?

AKM's eFuse technology contributes to smaller, lighter, and safer onboard chargers in electric vehicles, enhancing overall system efficiency.

What are the advantages of using SiC-based power devices in eFuse technology?

SiC-based power devices in eFuse technology offer higher efficiency, improved safety, and reduced maintenance costs compared to conventional silicon-based power converters.