Melexis ToF sensors meet safety needs

Melexis recently expanded its time-of-flight (ToF) portfolio with the launch of its MLX75027 ToF sensors. The sensor ICs meet functional safety requirements for automotive and industrial applications.

The fully integrated and ASIL-capable ToF sensors target safety critical systems where ASIL or SIL certification is required, enabling the design of very compact 3D cameras. They address emerging NCAP regulations for expanded automotive safety applications, as well as functional safety integration for industrial and mass-market applications.

MLX75027 ToF sensors (Source: Melexis)

Automotive safety applications include dynamic airbag suppression, in-cabin driver attention monitoring and close-range exterior LiDAR. Use cases in the industrial segment include providing safety perimeters for industrial cameras, supporting control of robot movements and enabling advanced machine vision. Other applications include autonomous transport and people and 3D object detection.

The VGA resolution MLX75027RTI, with a ½-inch optical format, features back-side illuminated (BSI) imaging technology, combining Melexis’ automotive expertise and Sony’s DepthSense ToF pixel. The combination delivers 135 depth frames per second.

The sensor is available in an iBGA package, measuring 11 × 9.5 mm, which is smaller than the current generation device. It offers a 50% reduction in package size, enabling the development of more compact imaging.

Other features of the MLX75027RTI include a physical 307-kpixel spatial resolution, support up to 100-MHz illumination modulation frequency, a built-in temperature sensor, full resolution readout up to 120 fps and optimization of the chief ray angle of the integrated micro lens array, which simplifies the overall optical system.

The ToF sensor also offers sunlight robustness so that signal quality is unaffected by the environment, said Melexis, and dedicated safety integration guidelines to assist with design and implementation of ASIL/SIL systems. It is compatible with the MLX75026 QVGA resolution ToF sensor IC.

The MLX75027 is available in two variants. The MLX75027RTI for automotive use features a -40˚C to 105˚C temperature range and AEC-Q100 grade 2 qualification, while the MLX75027STI for industrial applications offers a -20˚C to 85˚C temperature range. An  EVK75027 evaluation kit is available for automotive applications.