Activity Tracking Sensor with High-G Impact Measurement

STMicroelectronics has introduced a groundbreaking sensor that merges an inertial measurement unit (IMU) with embedded AI, specifically designed for activity tracking and high-impact measurement in a single, compact package. The LSM6DSV320X sensor is the first of its kind in a regular-sized module, measuring 3 x 2.5 mm, with embedded AI processing that allows for continuous monitoring of movements and impacts. Featuring an innovative dual-accelerometer system, the sensor ensures high accuracy for activity tracking up to 16g and impact detection up to 320g.

The LSM6DSV320X integrates three MEMS sensors, including the ±16g and ±320g accelerometers, along with a MEMS gyroscope with a ±4000dps range. These sensors are fully synchronized, making the modules user-friendly and aiding in simplifying application development. Simone Ferri, APMS Group VP, MEMS Sub-Group General Manager at STMicroelectronics, expressed, “We continue to unleash more and more of the potential in our cutting-edge AI MEMS sensors to enhance the performance and energy efficiency of today’s leading smart applications.”

Equipped with an embedded AI processor featuring a machine learning core (MLC), the LSM6DSV320X conducts inference directly within the sensor, reducing system power consumption and enhancing application performance. Additionally, the sensor integrates a finite state machine (FSM) for motion tracking within the module and Sensor Fusion Low-Power (SFLP) technology for spatial orientation. The adaptive self-configuration (ASC) feature optimizes power consumption by automatically adjusting settings in real-time based on specific motion patterns or signals from the MLC.

The new AI MEMS sensor by STMicroelectronics covers a wide sensing range with high accuracy in a compact device, enabling consumer and IoT devices to offer advanced features while maintaining a sleek and wearable form factor. Applications range from activity trackers monitoring performance and safety in contact sports to gaming controllers enhancing user experience by detecting rapid movements and impacts. Smart tags can also benefit from the sensor by recording movement, vibrations, and shocks to ensure the safety and security of items.

Moreover, the sensor opens up possibilities for new smart devices in sectors like consumer healthcare and industrial safety. It can be used in personal protection devices for workers in hazardous environments, assessing the severity of falls or impacts, and evaluating the health of structures such as buildings and bridges. ST has developed the Motion XLF software library, patented for combining data from low-g and high-g accelerometers, to facilitate tracking high-intensity impacts while maximizing accuracy for low-g events.

STMicroelectronics offers the Motion XLF software library through the X-CUBE-MEMS1 package, allowing engineering teams to incorporate the software into their designs. Additionally, the company provides graphical design tools like MEMS Studio and ST AIoT Craft to evaluate, configure, and test the LSM6DSV320X sensor and embedded AI. These tools aid in connecting projects with STM32 applications, supporting the development and provisioning of node-to-cloud AIoT projects.