Tiny LiDAR dToF depth sensor cuts weight and size
Cette publication existe aussi en Français
Sony Image Sensing Solutions has announced the commercial introduction of the AS-DT1 LiDAR depth sensor, which claims to be the smallest and lightest on the market. It measures 29 x 29 x 31 mm or around 1.14 x 1.14 x 1.22 inches (width x height x depth), excluding protrusions, and weighs only 50g (approximately 1.76 ounces).
The AS-DT1 depth sensor leverages miniaturisation and optical lens technologies from Sony’s machine vision industrial cameras, making it ideal for applications where space and weight constraints are critical, such as drones, robotics, and more.
The depth sensor utilises ‘Direct Time of Flight (dToF)’ LiDAR technology, delivering extremely fast and accurate measurements, distance resolution, and measuring range. The AS-DT1 proprietary dToF ranging module incorporates a Single Photon Avalanche Diode (SPAD) sensor, achieving highly precise measurements and distance resolution. The SPAD sensor employs multiple ranging points for distance measurement and can accurately measure distances in three dimensions — length, width, and depth.
The dToF depth sensor can measure distances at various ranges, such as 10 meters with a margin of ±5 cm, both indoors and outdoors. Additionally, it accurately measures distances to diverse objects that are challenging to detect with other ranging methods. This includes low-contrast subjects, items with low reflectivity, and floating objects, making it well-suited for integration into robots operating in environments like stores and warehouses.
Additionally, the AS-DT1 depth sensor is highly accurate even at long distances of up to 40 metres indoors and 20 metres outdoors in bright summer light (assumed at 100,000 lux), which can present challenges when inspecting infrastructure such as bridges, highways, and dams.
Utilising an aluminium alloy for the structure, the dToF depth sensor balances a lightweight design with robustness. Its compact housing allows for easy integration into various devices, including autonomous mobile robots with limited space for depth sensors and drones, where weight can impact flight time and distance.
The AS-DT1 is expected to be available in Spring 2026.
www.image-sensing-solutions.eu
If you enjoyed this article, you will like the following ones: don't miss them by subscribing to :
