Socionext debuts 60-GHz radar sensors

At Sensors Converge 2023, Socionext Inc. will showcase its millimeter-wave integrated radar solutions for optimizing in-cabin automotive applications, including the debut of its automotive-grade SC1260 series of intelligent, ultra-low-power CMOS 60-GHz radar sensors. Designed to improve vehicle occupant safety and enhance the overall driving experience, the ultra-compact and all-in-one radar sensors enable easy acquisition of three-dimensional (3D) positions without requiring advanced expertise in high-frequency devices and signal processing.

SC1260 ultra-low-power CMOS 60-GHz radar sensors (Source: Socionext)

The all-in-one configuration incorporates antennas and radar signal processing circuits for maximum detection accuracy in an ultra-compact FC-BGA package, measuring 6 × 9 × 1.2 mm. “The high-precision sensors use a wide band of 6.8 GHz (57.1 to 63. 9GHz) with an expanded number of receiving antennas by TDM-MIMO processing and built-in radar signal processing circuits for range-finding and angle calculation,” said the company.

The radar sensors integrate antennas, wireless circuits, AD converters, FIFO memory, a SPI interface and an intelligent power control sequencer. Power consumption is 0.72 mW at 0.1% duty cycle operation and the operating temperature range is -40°C to 125°C.

For occupant detection and infant wellness monitoring, the 60-GHz radar sensors are designed for high-precision in-cabin sensing with time-division multiplexing (TDM-MIMO), enabling a single sensor to detect multiple passengers seated in a row. The sensors offer the capability to differentiate pets from humans and monitor vital signs such as heartbeat and respiration. In addition, the technology can detect infants wrapped in blankets or hidden from view, since radar can penetrate through solid non-metallic material, said Socionext.

The radar sensors also can be used for anti-theft monitoring, surrounding the vehicle, including pre- and post-collision video recording. The radar sensor can operate 24/7 uninterrupted using only 1 mW of power. “Automotive dashcam systems using Socionext’s radar sensor can detect incoming vehicles and record an incident prior to the occurrence,” said the company.

The smart sensor also provides 3D hand gesture recognition to operate in-vehicle displays and infotainment systems.

SC1260 sample and evaluation kit shipments are scheduled for June, followed by production volumes in the first quarter of 2024.

Socionext will display its radar solutions at Sensors Converge 2023 at booth 1549. One of the members of the new series, the SC1260AR3, has been nominated as a “2023 Best of Sensors Award” finalists. The SC1260AR3 features TDM-MIMO operation and multiple transmitting and receiving antennas-in-package (AiP) that can accurately detect the position and movement of multiple passengers in a vehicle.