3D ToF sensors for touchless machine operation and autonomous robots

Touchless and thus hygienic operation of machines and measuring equipment to ensure social distance as well as the control of autonomous robots requires powerful sensors. The 3D ToF sensor from Hamamatsu measures the distance to an object using the indirect ToF method (Time of Flight).
Sensors
Type No. S15452-01WT S15453-01WT S15454-01WT
Sensor type Linear Image Sensor Area Image Sensor
Number of effective pixels 64 × 1 256 × 1 96 × 72
Pixel pitch (μm) 20 20 50
Image size (mm) 1.28 × 0.05 5.12 × 0.05 4.80 × 3.60
Spectral response range (nm) 500 to 1000
Peak sensitivity wavelength (nm) 800
The sensors are adapted for use for touchless and non-contact detection of objects, shapes and persons. Hamamatsu recently started offering three newly developed distance sensors. At the same time, an expansion of the portfolio via a modular solution is planned. The integrated ASIC simplifies signal control and evaluation of the corresponding laser diode and detector for the user.

Main features of the new sensors

  • Three different pixel configurations:
    64 Pixel, 256 Pixel and 96 × 72 Pixel
  • High sensitivity in the near-infrared region
  • Improved tolerance to background light
  • Compact wafer level package (WLP) type

Function of a 3D ToF sensor

3D ToF sensors consist of an optical sensor element (linear or area array), shift register, output buffer amplifier, bias voltage generator, clock generator and other components. The sensors are used in combination with a modulated light source (LED or laser diode). They collect information about phase differences and transit time of the transmitted and received light pulses. The distance data are determined by external signal processing or computer-aided measurement technology.

New products under development

Hamamatsu plans to introduce a new distance sensor module with an integrated back-thinned 3D ToF sensor. Customized products are also possible. This enables the manufacturer to meet a wide range of requirements – from changes to the specifications of standard products to completely new designs. In addition to its own optical transmitter and receiver components, Hamamatsu also has various technologies at its disposal – for example optical design, circuit design, assembly. By combining these technologies, Hamamatsu can offer modules with even higher performance. ds
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