Recently, CMOS image sensor supplier SmartSens (688213) launched new ITS application products SC935HGS (9MP) and SC635HGS (6MP).
It is understood that they are based on SmartGS™-2 Plus technology, equipped with Lightbox IR® technology, support multiple HDR modes, and have high dynamic range, high frame rate, low noise and other performance. For intelligent transportation scenarios, the two products are optimized in terms of high temperature performance and frame rate to meet the image capture needs of intelligent transportation systems under complex conditions.
Currently, SC935HGS and SC635HGS have been accepted for sample delivery and are expected to be mass-produced in Q2 2025.
In addition, on December 25, SmartSens announced that its fundraising projects "R&D center equipment and system construction", "image sensor chip testing" and "CMOS chip upgrade and industrialization" have reached the scheduled use status, and decided to close the project, and the remaining 6.7043 million yuan of raised funds will be permanently used to supplement working capital. Previously, the company publicly issued 40,010,000 A shares, raised 1,260,715,100 yuan, and the net amount was 1,174,218,226.48 yuan, all of which were used for the above projects and to supplement working capital.
As for the characteristics of SmartSens' newly launched 9MP and 6MP high-performance CMOS image sensors for intelligent transportation applications, the following is a summary:
SmartGS™-2 Plus technology achieves distortion-free fast capture, suppresses motion deformation and tailing, and improves the accuracy of ITS high-speed traffic shooting. High sensitivity and high dynamic range improve image quality, 78% peak quantum efficiency ensures low-light clarity, PixGain technology achieves all-weather high definition, and supports Zone HDR and ColGain HDR® to improve dynamic range. Low-noise design uses advanced processes and algorithms to significantly reduce image noise. SC935HGS and SC635HGS optimize high-temperature performance, frame rate, shutter efficiency, and improve image capture stability. Higher frame rates support smooth shooting, and ultra-high shutter efficiency solves the problem of shooting bright and high-speed moving objects. SC935HGS provides a better field of view and reduces shooting blind spots. SC635HGS is flexibly used for monitoring small road sections.
Market demand for high-performance image sensors continues to grow
High-performance image sensors are the "eyes" of intelligent transportation systems, providing clear image information for the system. For now, the market shows the following characteristics:
Market demand continues to grow
As urban transportation continues to develop and the level of intelligence increases, the demand for high-performance image sensors continues to grow. These sensors can capture more detailed and clearer images, providing strong support for traffic monitoring, vehicle identification, behavior analysis and other functions. Especially at night or in bad weather conditions, high-performance image sensors can ensure the clarity and accuracy of monitoring images and improve the efficiency and level of traffic management.
Technological innovation drives market development
Technological innovation is an important driving force for the development of the high-performance image sensor market. In recent years, as CMOS image sensor technology continues to mature and advance, its performance has been significantly improved. For example, the application of back-illuminated technology, global shutter technology, HDR technology, etc. has made significant progress in image sensors in terms of sensitivity, dynamic range, noise control, etc. These technological innovations not only improve the performance of image sensors, but also provide broader space for their application in the field of intelligent transportation.
What new types of sensors may appear in smart transportation in the future?
In future intelligent transportation, the following new image sensors with potential may appear:
1. Higher performance CMOS image sensor:
• Based on advanced manufacturing processes and technologies, such as back-illuminated pixel design, global shutter technology, etc., achieving higher resolution, lower noise, faster readout speed and higher dynamic range.
• Specifically optimized for intelligent transportation application scenarios, such as high-temperature performance stability, shutter efficiency improvement, etc., to meet the needs of complex and changing traffic environments.
2. Quantum image sensor:
• Use nanostructures such as quantum dots or quantum wells to capture image information with ultra-high sensitivity and resolution.
• Able to achieve high-quality imaging effects under low light conditions, suitable for traffic monitoring at night or in low-light environments.
3. Hyperspectral imaging sensor:
• Capable of capturing spectral information of objects at different wavelengths, providing richer data than traditional color images.
• In intelligent transportation, it can be used for advanced applications such as vehicle material identification and road condition monitoring.
4. Event-driven image sensor:
• This sensor is able to capture and transmit only the changing parts of the image, significantly reducing data transmission volume and processing time.
• Suitable for real-time event monitoring in intelligent transportation, such as traffic accident detection, pedestrian crossing recognition, etc.
5. Image sensor with integrated AI processing capabilities:
• Integrate image sensors and AI processing units to achieve real-time analysis and processing of image data.
• Able to automatically identify objects, behaviors, etc. in traffic scenes, providing more intelligent decision-making support for intelligent transportation systems.
6. Near-infrared enhanced image sensor:
• Specifically optimized for imaging in the near-infrared band, suitable for intelligent transportation systems using near-infrared fill light technology.
• Able to improve imaging quality at night or under low-light conditions, enhancing the reliability and accuracy of traffic monitoring.
The development and application of these new image sensor technologies will further enhance the performance and capabilities of intelligent transportation systems and provide more intelligent and efficient solutions for urban traffic management, traffic safety and urban planning.
This paper is from Ulink Media, Shenzhen, China, the organizer of IOTE EXPO (IoT Expo in China)
