TDK capacitors filled with polyurethane resin are used for low voltage applications with high currents due to their simple design. Gas-impregnated high- performance capacitors for medium voltages and medium currents offer clear advantages in terms of low weight and reduced costs. Oil-impregnated capacitors are an alternative where applications require high operating temperatures and currents, resulting in critical heating that can be dissipated more effectively by oil. In cases where a standard design is not suitable due to restrictions in the application, TDK can develop a customized design.

The evolution of sensing technology and communication network contribute to the realization of an Autonomous driving society and its growth. Ultrasonic parking assistant is a key sensor for automated driving and parking functions. Ultrasonic parking sensors were in use in Europe long before debate on automated driving became active. TDK has for many years supplied Piezo Disks and ultrasonic driver transformers for use with ultrasonic parking sensors. TDK also developed a multilayer ceramic chip capacitor that exhibits attenuating capacitance (ZL characteristics) under high-temperature environments that is suitable for resonant circuits with Piezo Disk. This article presents Piezo Disk, ultrasonic driver transformers, and MLCC with ZL characteristics.

As the electrification of automobiles advances, power consumption control is becoming an increasingly important factor. LED Lighting Technology design reduces power consumption, increases lifecycle, offers design freedom and overall control. It is now used in Automotive functions including headlights and interior lighting. The TDK Group offers an extensive lineup of power inductors for use in LED drivers optimized for different systems including step-up, step-down, and step-up/step-down types.

TDK Corporation (TSE:6762) presents the new B43707* and B43727* series of EPCOS aluminum electrolytic capacitors with screw terminals. They are designed for rated voltages of between 400 V DC and 450 V DC and cover a capacitance range from 1800 µF to 18,000 µF. One particular feature of this series is their high CV product, which enables very compact dimensions. Depending on capacitance and voltage the capacitors measure in at just 51.6 mm x 80.7 mm to 76.9 mm x 220.7 mm (d x h).

NTC sensor elements are the functional basis for all kinds of temperature measurements in all major applications. TDK develops and manufactures high accuracy temperature sensors with excellent media resistance and long-term stability for the automotive, industrial, home and heating appliances markets. TDK offers standard portfolio epoxy resin and glass-encapsulated elements for temperature ranges up to 300°C, complimented by NTC chip thermistors.

TDK has expanded its portfolio with new EPCOS pressure transmitters whose performance profiles are specially tailored to the requirements of industry 4.0. These low-profile pressure sensors are characterized by their compact design, high accuracy and excellent long-term stability.

Automakers are incorporating more multifunctional capabilities into automobiles as they seek to make autonomous driving a reality. Electronic control units (ECUs) for advanced driver assistance systems are consuming more power, and the latest trend is toward ECU integration—installing an ECU close to the engine room or other working part.
For these reasons, the number of electronic devices and components built into cars these days is on the rise, and the reliability of the electronic components used in the electronics is having a growing impact on the reliability of the vehicle overall.

Conventional semiconductors based on silicon are being replaced by wide band-gap (WBG) technologies based on GaN and SiC. These demand a great deal from the passive components – particularly the DC link capacitors. Thanks to its supreme competence in materials and design, TDK offers innovative solutions, enabling the advantages of the new semiconductors.

As the electrification of the automotive progresses, the demand for motor generators is on the rise. There is also a trend towards integration of electric motors and inverters, and the requirements with regard to compact dimensions and resistance against heat and vibrations are becoming ever more severe, while high reliability is also an important factor. In some cases, wiring inductance can lead to high surge voltages which requires countermeasures such as suitable wiring design and snubber capacitors. At the same time, noise countermeasures are also essential.

The methods of use of automobiles will change substantially in the future including autonomous driving and car sharing services, and the human machine interface (HMI) between drivers and their cars will also completely change.
The automobile industry is developing the digital cockpit in pursuit of an HMI that will provide safety and reassurance while freeing drivers from the burdens of driving and allow time to be used meaningfully and in comfort.
Below is an introduction to TDK product and technologies that enhance the value of the digital cockpit with the aim of achieving an HMI that ensures and enhance safety and reassurance through the driver's senses.