Electrification of the powertrain and the added considerations for functional safety

The white paper, “Analog Components Advance Functional Safety Development for Automotive Applications,” focuses on electrically actuated systems, such as power steering and braking. Electrification of the powertrain and the introduction of lithium-ion batteries increases the need to design these systems with safety standards in mind. While the safety goals in electrified powertrains are similar to those analyzed for actuators (move when told, do not move when not, do not impede motion), lithium-ion batteries have the safety goal of preventing battery operation outside voltage and temperature safety limits.

One concern with regenerative charging systems is the ability of a generating system like a motor generator to overcharge batteries. This possibility requires new and innovative safety features and practices to prevent violation of the safety goal.