SWIR sensor launched for machine vision

Lynred has announced the launch of Eyesential SW, its latest VGA format SWIR sensor for machine vision. It is developed to provide the ideal cost-performance ratio for visible-like imaging to address specific performance requirements in machine vision. The sensor has the performance and features that industry is seeking for half the cost of comparable IR sensors on the market. It also includes specific functions for spectroscopy applications, such as spectral line selection/deselection.

Featuring a high-frame rate (300Hz full frame/1200Hz ¼ full frame), leading-edge performance in sensitivity and low noise, the sensor is ideal for the automation and data exchange trends in industry 4.0 manufacturing, which need improved detection capabilities and enhanced real-time detection on production lines.

“Lynred’s latest innovation, Eyesential SW, strikes the right balance between performance and cost for machine vision, making it a top choice for shortwave infrared sensors on the market. This SWIR sensor puts an end to the dilemma of equipment makers having to compromise on performance or price,” said Pierre Jenouvrier, cooled product division director at Lynred. “The integrity of our InGaAs technology, underpinning Eyesential SW and focusing on affordability, will give customers a new level of cost-effective VGA format SWIR sensors which better address machine vision market demands.”

Through the sensor, a 640x512, 10µm pitch, SWIR (0.9-1.7µm) sensor with 14-bit digital output and COTS packaging, the company aims to bolster Europe’s supply chain in SWIR sensors and strengthen its global offering in the machine vision market. This new sensor complements its SWIR product portfolio, which includes Snake SW (640x512/15µm), dedicated to high-end machine vision applications, and its recently acquired NIT SWIR modules.

SWIR wavelengths can pass through many solid materials, including silicon. Distinguishing materials and detecting humidity make them excellent for online industrial inspection and non-destructive control. Due to these key characteristics, it has many industrial applications, such as recycling operations to sort different types of plastics at high speed. Due to its sensitivity, high-frame-rate, and capacity to select/deselect spectral lines, the SWIR sensor is also ideal for IR spectroscopy, an application that identifies and quantifies almost any chemical species and scientific imaging.

In the kit, the company offers to operate Eyesential SW on an electronic board, including mechanical and optical interfaces (C-Mount) and the Lynred Software Toolbox.

SPIE Photonics West on booth #5029, San Francisco, 28-30 January 2025.