Unique QVGA resolution ToF sensor with integrated IR bandpass filter

Melexis has produced a new version of its ToF 3D camera MLX75026 with a fully integrated infrared bandpass (IRBP) filter. By combining the IRBP, it is no longer needed to incorporate a separate IR filter in the lens or sensor assembly. This solution is claimed to be unique in the industry. It lessens design complexity and cost while producing more design choices when sourcing a lens.

The AEC-Q100 qualified QVGA sensor further expands the third generation of ToF sensors from the company. Integrating an infrared bandpass filter eliminates the necessity for a separate bandpass filter, which simplifies design and manufacturing while also improving the selection of suitable, IR-friendly lenses.

The device is aimed at automotive use cases, including driver monitoring, in-cabin monitoring, gesture control, safety applications associated with airbag deployment, head-up display driver alignment and industrial applications such as automated guided vehicles, elevator entry and (collaborative) robotics.

“An IR filter is mandatory in every ToF application to reduce out-of-band infrared light in the operating environment, which could otherwise lower the dynamic range of the sensor,” explained Gualtiero Bagnuoli, Optical sensors marketing manager at Melexis. “A separate filter adds cost and complexity to a design, but by using the MLX75026 with IRBP filter, engineers can avoid both the cost and complexity and explore the benefits of time-of-flight sensing more easily.”

The device has QVGA (320x240 pixels) resolution with a 1/4" optical format and supports 940nm illumination. Configuration is executed over an I2C interface and offers CSI-2 serial data output. The high integration, small size and low power consumption of the sensor, together with the integration of the IR bandpass filters, facilitates the design of compact and cost-effective ToF cameras for automotive, industrial and consumer applications.