STMicroelectronics FlightSense VL53L1X time-of-flight sensor

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The VL53L1X time-of-flight sensor from STMicroelectronics extends the detection range of the company’s FlightSense technology to four metres, bringing low-power distance measurement and proximity detection to a wide variety of applications. Unlike proximity sensors that use simple IR (infrared) technology, which only measure signal strength and can be affected by the object’s reflectivity, FlightSense sensors directly measure distance to the object based on the time for emitted photons to be reflected, enabling good distance ranging regardless of the object’s surface characteristics.

With low power consumption and fast ranging performance, the VL53L1X is suitable for mobile robotics for wall following, cliff detection, collision avoidance and hover/landing assistance for drones or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The power-saving presence-detection mode enables innovative auto-sleep/wake-on-approach use cases for PCs, notebooks and IoT devices, in addition to camera auto-focus assist and gesture recognition. Further applications include washroom automation in toilets, faucets or soap dispensers, and package counting to aid inventory management in vending machines or smart-shelf systems.

The fully integrated and miniaturised device measures 4.9 x 2.5 x 1.56 mm, allowing use even where space is limited. It is also pin-compatible with its predecessor, the VL53L0X, allowing easy upgrading of existing products. The compact package contains the laser driver and emitter as well as the Single-Photon Avalanche Diode (SPAD) light receiver that gives ST’s FlightSense sensors their high ranging speed. Furthermore, the 940 nm emitter, operating in the non-visible spectrum, eliminates distracting light emission and can be hidden behind a protective window without impairing measurement performance.

For more information: www.st.com/VL53L1X.