Asahi Kasei Microdevices Launches CQ36 Series Integrated Circuit with Built-in ΔΣ Modulator

Rhea-AI Summary

Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) has launched the CQ36 series, a new line of integrated circuits (ICs) designed for the robotics market. These ICs feature a built-in Delta-Sigma (ΔΣ) modulator, replacing traditional shunt resistors and isolated ADCs within a single compact package. AKM's CQ36 series promises enhanced precision, reduced size, and lower heat generation, making it ideal for next-gen robotics. The ICs have a 20% smaller mounting size and utilize high-sensitivity Hall elements for accuracy. These advancements position AKM as a leader in the robotics semiconductor market, with the company set to showcase the CQ36 series at PCIM Europe 2024.

Positive

• Launch of CQ36 series by AKM introduces advanced integrated circuits with a built-in ΔΣ modulator.
• New ICs replace traditional shunt resistors and isolated ADCs, reducing component count and system size.
• CQ36 series has a 20% smaller mounting size compared to existing technologies.
• High-sensitivity Hall elements in the CQ36 series enable accuracy comparable to shunt resistor and isolated ADC solutions.
• Low heat generation with primary conductor resistance at only 0.3 mΩ allows continuous operation at 60 Ams.
• AKM's innovation reinforces its position as a leader in the robotics semiconductor market.
• The CQ36 series will be showcased at PCIM Europe 2024, enhancing market visibility.

Negative

• No specific sales figures or financial projections for the CQ36 series are provided in the press release.
• Potential market risks if the CQ36 series does not meet the performance expectations of robotics manufacturers.
• There is no mention of pricing for the CQ36 series, which could influence adoption rates.
• Initial production costs for the CQ36 series may be high due to advanced technology and materials used.

TOKYO & NEW YORK & DÜSSELDORF, Germany--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Robotics manufacturers developing the next generation of devices need precise torque control, compact system design, and parts that generate low heat. To meet these needs, Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM) has launched a new line of integrated circuits (ICs) offering advanced capabilities in a more compact package than previous solutions.

Asahi Kasei Microdevices’ (AKM) CQ36 series (Photo: Business Wire)

The CQ36 series of digital output coreless current sensor ICs caters to the growing robotics market, which is poised to reach $40.2 billion by 2031. This series features a built-in Delta-Sigma (ΔΣ) modulator, enabling the IC to replace traditional shunt resistors and isolated analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) in a single package. AKM will exhibit the new line at PCIM Europe 2024, June 11-13, at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre, in booth Hall 7-502.

“The CQ36 series represents a breakthrough in current sensing technology and reinforces AKM’s position as an innovation leader in the robotics semiconductor market,” said Toshinori Takatsuka, General Manager of AKM’s current sensor business. “We’ve created a solution that surpasses traditional designs in size, precision, and thermal performance. The CQ36 series will empower robotics manufacturers to develop smaller, more precise, and energy-efficient systems to drive future Industry 4.0 applications.”

This groundbreaking design reduces the mounting size by 20% compared to existing technologies. It achieves this by combining the current sensor and ΔΣ modulator into a single package, decreasing the total number of required components and enabling overall system downsizing. Furthermore, the series is extremely thin compared to cement resistors, facilitating reflow soldering and improved layout flexibility.

The CQ36 also utilizes high-sensitivity Hall elements made of III-V compound semiconductors, achieving accuracy comparable to current detection solutions that use a shunt resistor and isolated ADC (ENOB of 12 to 14 bits). In addition to its high sensitivity, the CQ36 has exceptionally low heat generation with a primary conductor resistance of only 0.3 mΩ, which allows for continuous operation at 60 Ams.

Learn more about the CQ36 series and AKM’s presence at PCIM Europe 2024.

About Asahi Kasei Microdevices (AKM)

AKM, a Japan-based company, operates an electronic components business as a member of the Asahi Kasei Group's Material sector. AKM provides customers with unique products by combining the compound semiconductor technology used in magnetic sensors with the ASIC/analog circuit technology used in silicon semiconductors. AKM's unique products and solutions are featured across a wide range of markets, including mobile communication devices and consumer products, automotive electronics devices, household equipment, and industrial equipment.

Additional information is available at https://www.akm.com/global/en/.

About Asahi Kasei

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/20240606299751/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 Corp.

FAQ

What is the CQ36 series launched by Asahi Kasei Microdevices?

The CQ36 series is a new line of integrated circuits with a built-in Delta-Sigma (ΔΣ) modulator designed for the robotics market.

How does the CQ36 series improve over traditional designs?

The CQ36 series replaces traditional shunt resistors and isolated ADCs, reducing component count and system size.

What are the key features of the CQ36 series?

The key features include a built-in ΔΣ modulator, high-sensitivity Hall elements, reduced mounting size by 20%, and low heat generation.

When and where will AKM showcase the CQ36 series?

AKM will exhibit the CQ36 series at PCIM Europe 2024 from June 11-13 at the Nuremberg Exhibition Centre.

How does the CQ36 series benefit robotics manufacturers?

The CQ36 series enables the development of smaller, more precise, and energy-efficient systems for next-gen robotics.