Electro-magnetic sensor designed for 3D virtual experiences

The 1.65mm height target has been the biggest challenge during the last two years, achieving it by a joint ecosystem development effort between BQ, UC3M University and Premo. The whole project was under the scope of a CDTI Spain research project called ASUMP.

This is a real ultra-low-profile sensor in 12x14x1.65mm total volume dimensions, able to be integrated in ultra-thin devices such as SmartCard type keyfobs, standard automotive keyfobs, special miniaturised keyfobs (sport keys), Smartphones (to be use as a digital key with the same user experience of current PKE access), and other devices such as hand-held controllers where EMMT (electromagnetic motion tracking technology) is used for 6DoF applications: real High precision motion tracking system with no limitation in the line of sight, ultra-low latency, low power consumption, etc.

Smartphones includes multiple communication antennas integrated, enabling connectivity capabilities in single device like never before: GPS, Galileo Sat, WIFI, 3G, 4G, 5G, NFC, BT, BLE, Qi Wireless Charging. Low Frequency communication with magnetic fields (RFID, in kHz frequency range) is a connectivity and positioning technology widely using in automotive car access since many years.

Nowadays, the digital keyfob integration in smartphones is a pending task for the phone manufacturers. To achieve the same user experience level as current passive entry keyfobs, the inclusion of a low frequency magnetic field antenna in the smartphone is mandatory.

Premo latest innovation, the 3DC14ULP is a specific development focused on this application and device, the smartphone. Lowering the profile was a key factor to be success on this integration and allow users the usage of digital keys for controlling access to their cars.

This part includes 3 axes (X-Y-Z) 100% encapsulated in epoxy to provide full functionality for wakeup, and 6DoF position/orientation even with movement tracking. Premo provide different number of versions concerning quasi and fully isotropic 3DCoil configurations, to give solution for trimmed and no trimmed performances.

First version (3DC14EM-ULP-0238J) got samples available by end of September 2018, ready to work at 125 and 134.2kHz frequencies.

The 3DC14ULP Series features ultra-low profile height value - less than 1.7mm - and is fully isotropic. These parts will be delivered in tape and reel for SMT pick and place according to EIA 481 (1000 pcs/reel). It has been engineered to be RoHS and REACH compliant and has been also tested to endurance in conformity with AECQ200 for automotive and wearable applications.

Its size is 50% smaller than all competitor 3DCoils products in the market, when combined with PREMO 3DcoilCube specific Emitter Antennas its able to sense magnetic field up to 8 meters distance (1-2m in short range, 3-5m in mid-range, and 6-8m and beyond with ultra long-range).