Semiconductors used in highly available power distribution systems: Freedom from Interference due to fast failure isolation

Semiconductor switches used as safety elements enable highly available power distribution systems.

During the development, however, the freedom from interference must be considered, which is achieved by fast failure isolation. Additionally, the switches fulfill the function of cable protection. The ISO 26262-ready EiceDRIVER™ APD family from Infineon Technologies is one of the products suitable for implementing these safety elements.

Far-reaching driver assistance systems, “X-bywire” systems and automated driving result in new functional safety requirements for developers. According to ISO 26262:2018, this also includes the provision of a high availability power supply for the driver assistance systems by the power distribution system (PDS). Equally important is the freedom from interference of other components and systems to the power distribution system, which can be achieved by introducing safety elements that isolate failures in less than 100 µs to 500 µs. Implementing semiconductor solutions enables us to achieve these goals.

Automotive megatrends re quire dependable electronics

We live in an age of increasing digitalization. This also affects mobility: Modern vehicles are constantly connected to the cloud and receive software updates at regular intervals. This in turn has a significant impact on the communication level of the electric-electronic (E/E) architecture, which is increasingly evolving into a zone concept with a central computer. Drivetrain electrification is leading to a power distribution system with multiple voltage classes and sources, enabling new concepts of decentralized power distribution in the vehicle.