STMicroelectronics: Flexible power switches for innovative applications

STMicroelectronics is a leading semiconductor company focused on developing innovative technologies for automotive, industrial, communications and personal electronics applications. The company combines extensive manufacturing capabilities with a global presence to deliver high-quality and sustainable solutions. With a focus on innovation, STMicroelectronics strives to drive technological development and environmental awareness in equal measure.

Innovative power distribution: the eCube 152 domain architecture from Audi

STMicroelectronics presents the eCube 152 domain architecture, an impressive example of the future of vehicle wiring, as used in one of Audi's latest models. This state-of-the-art wiring harness efficiently connects hundreds of loads, including sensors, actuators and control units, to the vehicle battery. The architecture focuses on safe, robust and efficient power distribution to ensure all vehicle functions from heating systems and lighting to ADAS and braking systems. The increasing complexity of modern vehicles requires strategic optimization of the energy architecture. STMicroelectronics' innovative solution shows how power switches and electronic fuses meet the challenges of a stable and reliable power grid.

Electronic fuses: Robustness and reliability redefined

A key advance in the eCube 152 domain architecture is the introduction of electronic fuses to replace conventional mechanical fuses. These offer numerous advantages: more robust protection mechanisms, improved thermal management and greater reliability, especially in safety-critical applications such as ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and autonomous driving. The electronic fuses not only enable better monitoring and control of the current flow, but also support functional safety and prevent interference in the vehicle electrical system. This significantly increases safety in the vehicle and creates the basis for a reliable power supply, even under extreme conditions.

Flexibility and efficiency thanks to configurable power switches

STMicroelectronics' products are equipped with SPI interfaces that enable flexible configuration of the power distribution. OEMs benefit from the ability to customize end-of-line parameters without having to develop multiple hardware modules. This adaptability significantly reduces development times and costs. STMicroelectronics' broad product portfolio includes solutions from a few milliamperes up to high ampere ranges. Thanks to this diversity, applications with different requirements can be covered - from basic features to more complex functions such as IC and eFuse products. The combination of flexibility and technical excellence makes STMicroelectronics a market leader in the field of power distribution.

Future-proof power distribution for the next generation of vehicles

The main question of modern power distribution architectures is: How can it be ensured that all loads are available at all times? STMicroelectronics offers not only answers, but also solutions. By integrating intelligent monitoring mechanisms, short circuits can be quickly detected and the current flow interrupted. This not only ensures a stable vehicle electrical system, but also the ability to react quickly to prevent damage or failures. The combination of Functional Safety, Freedom from Interference (FFI) and a robust architecture allows car manufacturers to meet the requirements of the next generation of vehicles. With STMicroelectronics, they not only have a technology partner, but also the assurance that their vehicles meet the highest standards in terms of power distribution and management.