Next-generation multizone time-of-flight sensor from STMicroelectronics

This direct-ToF sensor combines a 940nm vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL), a multizone SPAD (single-photon avalanche diode) detector array, and an optical system with filters and diffractive optical elements (DOE). The sensor provides a wide 45 x 45° field of view (65° diagonal) and can measure distances of objects up to 400cm away across 64 zones at up to 30 captures per second.

The VL53L8CX enhances ranging performance with a new-generation VCSEL and advanced meta-optics. It offers better immunity to ambient light, increasing its maximum range in daylight from 170 to 285cm, and reduces power consumption from 4.5 to 1.6mW in low-power mode compared to the VL53L5CX.

ST introduced the first multizone time-of-flight sensor, the VL53L5CX, in 2021. The VL53L8CX builds upon this by providing uniform sensitivity and accurate ranging across its field of view, with better range in ambient light conditions.

The sensor's improved ambient-light immunity makes it more responsive for system activation and human presence detection. It's part of ST's STGesture platform, which includes gesture-recognition software and tools, enabling precise gesture-based interaction and hand posture recognition using AI models.

Additionally, the VL53L8CX offers enhanced accuracy for monitoring contents in bins, containers, silos, and tanks, including industrial bulk storage and liquid-level monitoring. This accuracy benefits drinks machines, such as coffee makers and beverage dispensers.

The sensor can improve mobile robots' navigation capabilities, including floor sensing, object detection, and collision avoidance. Its synchronisation pin assists in autofocus for projectors and cameras. The sensor also features a motion indicator, an auto-stop for real-time actions, and immunity to cover-glass crosstalk beyond 60cm. With support for SPI connectivity and a 1MHz I2C interface, it facilitates data transfers at up to 3MHz.

Designers can evaluate the VL53L8CX using the X-NUCLEO-53L8A1 expansion board and SATEL-VL53L8 breakout boards. The P-NUCLEO-53L8A1 pack, which includes a STM32F401 Nucleo microcontroller board and an X-NUCLEO-53L8A1 expansion board, is also available for quick project initiation.

The VL53L8CX is currently available in a 6.4 x 3.0 x 1.75mm leadless package, priced at $3.60 for orders of 1,000 pieces.