STMicroelectronics has introduced a new generation of FlightSense™ time-of-flight (ToF) ranging sensors for smartphone camera management and AR and VR devices. By greatly improving the performance of many key components, the ranging performance of ST's new-generation ToF module is doubled compared to the previous generation, and the indoor full-area mode ranging up to 4 meters, while under the same working conditions, the power consumption is lower than that of the previous generation. The previous generation has been reduced by half.
The module integrates a high-output 940nm VCSEL light source, a SoC sensor with embedded VCSEL driver, a SPAD receiver array, and a low-power 32-bit MCU core. The VL53L8 uses metasurface lens technology in both the transmit and receive windows. In addition, like the VL53L5, the new sensor provides 16 or 64 independent ranging areas, and although the ranging is increased, the performance is equally stable and accurate.
Eric Aussedat, executive vice president of STMicroelectronics and general manager of the Imaging Sub-Division of the Analog, MEMS and Sensors Division, said: ST's ToF technology has achieved great commercial success. There are currently more than 200 smartphones and more than 100 computers, projectors Instruments and robots are using our products. Now, the VL53L8 FlightSense sensor takes ranging performance and energy efficiency to a new level. Our next-generation rangefinder sensor is a game-changer, with innovative metasurface lens technology and energy-efficient architecture, the new sensor reduces battery load, extends camera autofocus range, and enhances scene awareness.
STMicroelectronics has partnered with Metalenz to develop and pioneer optical metasurface technology that allows optical systems to collect more light signals, provide multiple functions in a single layer, and enable new forms of sensing in smartphones and other devices, all of which All integrated in a compact package.
The VL53L8 is ideal for managing the front and rear cameras of smartphones and tablets, as well as smart speakers and personal electronics accessories such as AR/VR/MR. Front-facing apps include object tracking and gesture recognition, while rear-facing apps include laser autofocus, camera selection, touch-to-focus, and flash dimming. In low light conditions, the VL53L8 will provide even greater advantages for these functions. The sensor can also support indoor/outdoor detection and smart focus bracketing, as well as consumer-grade lidars that require depth maps.
