DSP for enhanced depth perception in next-generation ADAS systems

Light and Cadence Design Systems has announced that Light has deployed the Cadence Tensilica Vision Q7 DSP in its Clarity Depth Perception Platform, which offers long-range, high-resolution depth perception using industry-standard cameras benefiting ADAS. The DSP provides Light with real-time data processing, supplying low-latency, high-bandwidth transmission of high-resolution output.

Light’s solution allows machines to see better than humans by employing two or more cameras, novel calibration and unique signal processing to deliver unprecedented depth quality over the camera’s field of view. Integrating the DSP into its solution allows up to 10X faster measuring depth processing than a quad-core CPU, enhancing real-time accuracy and reliability. The highly configurable and extensible Vision Q7 DSP is joined by an array of optimised computer vision libraries, optional accelerators and toolchains that efficiently handle these workloads. Light implemented its proprietary multi-view depth perception algorithms through custom instructions utilising the Tensilica Instruction Extension language, providing an additional 4X performance improvement with 3X area/power savings.

“Light’s solution enables machines to see better than humans, and a key part of that is processing that information quickly enough to allow the machine to react to the world around it,” said Dave Grannan, CEO, Light. “Integrating the Cadence Tensilica Vision Q7 DSP provides us with enhanced signal processing capabilities at low power with low latency, which complement the technology in the platform, helping us to provide accurate and reliable measured depth for future ADAS systems. Additionally, integrating ISO 26262-certified IP such as the Tensilica Vision Q7 DSP is critical when designing automotive-grade solutions.”

“The Tensilica Vision Q7 DSP continues to be the de-facto standard for vision processors in the majority of today’s markets, providing both high performance and a low-power envelope,” said David Glasco, vice president of research and development for Tensilica IP at Cadence. “Light’s innovative approach to depth perception is quite complex and achieves real-time processing with high accuracy by integrating the Vision Q7 DSP into Light’s Clarity Depth Perception Platform. This showcases the Vision Q7 DSP’s versatility and strengthens our footprint in the intelligent automotive space.”

The Tensilica Vision Q7 DSP supports Cadence’s Intelligent System Design strategy by enabling SoC design excellence.