Novelda AS has unveiled its ultra-low-power ultra-wideband (UWB) proximity sensor at Sensors Converge 2023. Claimed as the lowest power UWB radar sensor, the device operates on batteries with a low power consumption of less than 100 microwatts (µW) for high energy efficiency.
Novelda calls the ultra-low power consumption, which helps extend battery life and reduce overall carbon footprint, a “breakthrough achievement,” which “sets a new standard for energy-efficient radar technology while offering high performance, able to detect breathing motion at 10 meters.”
The ultra-low-power UWB proximity sensor features a small form factor, delivering a complete sensor module with antennas and on-chip processing in a 5 × 30-mm package. The UWB sensor is worldwide compliant, enabling the module to be used globally.
The UWB radar sensor operates on batteries with a low power consumption of less than 100 µW for high energy efficiency. (Source: Novelda AS)
Other key features include a fully configurable detection zone, allowing customers to define the detection zone for their specific requirements, and easy integration behind materials such as plastics, tempered glass and ceramics, enabling space-constrained designs such as thin bezels. The technology also offers “excellent” co-existence properties and is not impacted by Wi-Fi and Bluetooth or other UWB devices and radars.
The new radar system provides accurate angle and distance information to multiple targets, which enables complex use cases such as people estimation, said Novelda. The sensor offers absolute range limitations and can be set to ignore passing targets. One example cited is a kiosk application, where only the intended users activate the welcome screen. The screen enters low-power mode when unoccupied, extending LCD screen life by up to approximately 10 years, according to the company.
Samples of the ultra-low-power proximity sensor will be available in the third quarter of 2023, with the final product launch in mid-2024. Along with the ultra-low-power UWB radar sensor, Novelda also will demo its standard UWB proximity sensor and UWB occupancy sensor at Booth 709.
Advertisement
