New high-sensitivity ultrasonic sensor supports greater vehicle autonomy

Murata has introduced a new ultrasonic sensor device for deployment in automotive applications. With high sensitivity and rapid responsiveness, the MA48CF15-7N is housed in a hermetically sealed package to shield against liquid ingress.

With vehicle designs set to include higher levels of autonomy, more accurate short/medium-range object detection mechanisms will be required. Through the emission of ultrasonic waves and the ensuing detection of their reflections, it is feasible to determine an object's presence and gauge its distance away.

The device can cover a wide detection range, from 15cm to 550cm, and supplies high accuracy in obstacle detection. It generates a beam across an angle of 120° by 60°. The 1100pF±10% capacitance (at 1kHz) is another essential aspect, with the narrow deviation displayed, meaning that no transformer adjustment is needed.

The resonant frequency is 48.2±1kHz, with a 35±10Q value for enhanced usability and better temperature performance. Tolerances on these two parameters are decreased by 50% compared to previous models, allowing much smaller variations in the detection characteristics of individual units.