Time-of-Flight imaging evaluation kit released

Co-developed in association with Melexis technology partner BlueTechnix,the EVK75023 is a compact (130x105x60mm) board for assessment of ToF sensing capabilities under even the most challenging of application conditions, where the detrimental influence of ambient light variations must be addressed. Thanks to the constituent MLX75023 imaging device, it can deal with up to 120,000lux of background light.

The EVK75023 has a high bandwidth Gigabit Ethernet interface, through which real-time 3D images are output at frame rates of up to 60fps. These can be used to recognise complex gestures. Via a C-based API or via the Matlab SDK, users can easily develop their own communication interface.

The platform consists four main elements. A pair of illuminating units - each with a set of 6 LEDs capable of producing a peak optical output of 10W - is included, as is a sensor board incorporating the MLX75023 sensor, a standard M12 lens mount plus objective with a field of view up to 60°, a quad-channel data converter and programmable logic (through which both the sensor and the LEDs are controlled).

An ARM-based processing board features an i.MX6x Freescale MPU, which is responsible for compiling the acquired ToF data then subsequently communicating this to a laptop, via the Gigabit Ethernet connection, for analysis. All of these different subsystems are placed on an interface board.

“By using Melexis’ automotive-grade ToF offering, automobile engineering teams will be able to deploy HMIs which are robust enough to deal with difficult working environments, where they are exposed to dramatic alterations in light levels, while still hitting the necessary price points to ensure economic viability,” states Kristof Lieben, Application Engineer, ToF Systems, Melexis. “The addition of this new evaluation kit, gives engineers the functionality needed to make an initial appraisal of the design set up, so that it can be optimised for the particular surroundings.”