New Active Light Sensor Interface IC from Melexis Makes Gesture Recognition Easier to Apply

This IC features 2 active light reflection measurement channels with integrated ambient light suppression. The active light sensing section is complemented by two logarithmic current sensors which can measure the photocurrent signal from externally connected photodiodes for ambient light sensing. Internal control logic, configurable user registers and SPI communication enable simple, programmable operation. More channels can be added through multiplexing. A built-in temperature sensor can be used to compensate any heat effects.

The MLX75030 controls the LED current and measures the resulting photodiode signal, which is translated into digital form by an integrated 16-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC). This data can then be transferred to the system microcontroller via the SPI interface. The optical light intensity of both active light channels can be used to detect proximity of an object close to the detectors, independent from the background light level. Human gestures (such as swipes or zooms) can then be determined by use of software algorithms. HMI response times of 30 frames/sec are supported.

To help meet the most challenging automotive requirements, the device integrates auxiliary circuit functions like a watchdog timer, CRC, open/short test, internal diagnostics, bias/reference sources and clock generators.

The MLX75030 is offered in a compact (4 mm x 4 mm), 24-pin surface mount QFN package, or as a bare die. Automotive PPAP is available, and versions supporting both standard 0°C to 70°C and extended - 40°C to 105°C operational temperature ranges are available.