STMicroelectronics has introduced the SafeSense VD56GA, a 1.1 MP automotive image sensor designed for infrared driver and occupant monitoring. The sensor uses ST's new DeepNIR backside-illuminated pixel architecture and integrates image-processing functions within a 3.7 × 3.2 mm CSP package.
Compared with ST's previous generation, the VD56GA delivers 35% higher modulation transfer function (MTF) sharpness and nearly 60% higher infrared quantum efficiency. ST developed the sensor for in-cabin cameras where infrared performance, image quality and the size of the complete camera module are important considerations.
DeepNIR Pixel Architecture Improves Infrared Imaging
The DeepNIR pixel architecture has been optimised for infrared imaging, which is commonly used by in-cabin monitoring systems to capture the driver and occupants under changing lighting conditions.
Alongside the increase in infrared sensitivity, ST says the higher MTF improves the sharpness of the image produced by the 1.1 MP sensor. The company sees this combination as a way of getting more imaging performance from a relatively compact sensor rather than moving to a larger, higher-cost device.
The improvements also affect some of the components surrounding the sensor. According to ST, the VD56GA's imaging performance can support the use of lower-cost optics, simpler infrared illumination and less demanding optical filtering. The sensor is also intended for installations where the camera may need to operate from behind a display.
Image Processing Built into the Sensor
The VD56GA includes several image-processing functions that would otherwise need to be handled elsewhere in the camera system. These include mirror, crop, dark calibration, auto exposure and piecewise-linear processing.
ST says the embedded processing can remove the need for external image-processing resources in suitable designs, reducing the amount of additional hardware required around the sensor.
Both RAW and YUV output formats are supported, giving developers a choice over how image data is passed into the rest of the vehicle's electronic architecture and where further processing takes place.
The 3.7 × 3.2 mm CSP package is intended for compact automotive camera modules and space-constrained in-cabin installations. ST is targeting the VD56GA at driver monitoring and occupant monitoring systems across a wider range of vehicle platforms.
Samples of the SafeSense VD56GA are available now, with pricing available through ST sales offices.
Learn more and read the original announcement at st.com.
Technology Overview
The STMicroelectronics SafeSense VD56GA is a 1.1 MP automotive image sensor for infrared driver and occupant monitoring. It uses ST's DeepNIR backside-illuminated pixel architecture, integrates several image-processing functions and comes in a 3.7 × 3.2 mm CSP package.
FAQs
What is the ST VD56GA designed for?
The VD56GA is designed for infrared in-cabin sensing, including automotive driver and occupant monitoring systems.
How does the VD56GA improve on ST's previous generation?
ST specifies 35% higher MTF sharpness and nearly 60% higher infrared quantum efficiency compared with its previous-generation sensor.
What image-processing functions are integrated?
The VD56GA includes mirror, crop, dark calibration, auto exposure and piecewise-linear processing, with support for RAW and YUV output formats.
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