3D depth sensors have emerged as a niche field in recent years, with the commercial journey of this industry proving both exciting and fraught with challenges. Alongside the rise of this niche, numerous domestic startups have flourished, including prominent ones like Orbbec, Xperi, and Limax Photonics.
While startups have been making waves, established players continue to deepen their presence in this arena.
Recently, one of Europe’s chip giants, STMicroelectronics (STMicro), announced the launch of a new integrated, direct Time-of-Flight (dToF) 3D laser radar sensor, the VL53L9.
What’s new about it?
According to reports, the newly released VL53L9 dToF 3D LiDAR sensor is a plug-and-play low-power module with on-chip dToF processing capabilities. It requires no additional components or calibration, offering ranging capabilities from 5cm to 10m. It integrates dual-scanning flood illumination, enabling the detection of small objects and edges, capturing both 2D infrared (IR) and 3D depth map information with a resolution of up to 2300 measurement points.
The key feature of this new sensor is its true integration, with everything needed contained within a compact sensor. It can transmit processed 2D images, depth data, and confidence maps at a speed of 60 frames per second, purportedly the fastest in the market. Additionally, there is a raw histogram output mode available for input into artificial intelligence (AI) systems for further processing. Currently, VL53L9 samples have been provided to “key customers,” with plans for a full market release by early 2025.
Alexandre Balmefezol, General Manager of the Imaging Business Unit at STMicro, stated: “ToF sensors can precisely measure the distance of objects in a scene, a feature that is driving exciting new functionalities in smart devices, home appliances, industrial automation, and more. We have delivered 2 billion sensors to the market and continue to expand our product portfolio, covering all types from the simplest single-zone devices to the latest high-resolution 3D iToF and dToF sensors.”
Meanwhile, STMicro also announced that its previously launched VD55H1 iToF sensor has entered mass production and will be featured in Bluecore Technologies’ mobile robot depth vision system in China. The company stated, “The high-performance, ultra-compact camera with embedded STMicro sensors combines the power of 3D vision and edge AI, providing intelligent obstacle avoidance and high-precision docking for mobile robots.”
Notably, STMicro will continue to participate in the IOTE® 2024 21st International Internet of Things Exhibition in Shanghai as an exhibitor, showcasing exciting intelligent sensing products and solutions for public equipment, smart industry, smart homes, and more.
This paper is from Ulink Media, Shenzhen, China, the organizer of IOTE EXPO (IoT Expo in China)
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