ST Unveils Image Sensor Ecosystem for Enhanced Camera Performance

The ecosystem empowers developers of mass-market industrial and consumer applications to achieve superior camera performance through the integration of ST BrightSense image sensors. Unlike conventional rolling shutter sensors, global-shutter sensors sample all pixels simultaneously, enabling the capture of images of fast-moving objects without distortion. This innovative technology also leads to a significant reduction in power consumption when combined with a lighting system. BrightSense CMOS global-shutter image sensors leverage advanced backside-illuminated pixel technology, produced at ST’s own foundry in France, ensuring exceptional image sharpness for capturing intricate details like those in barcode reading.

The high sensitivity of these sensors enhances low-light performance and enables rapid image capture, facilitating functions such as obstacle avoidance in mobile robots and face recognition in personal electronics. Featuring an advanced 3D-stacked construction, the sensors boast an extremely compact die area, facilitating integration in space-constrained environments, particularly in the final optical module. Moreover, they come equipped with advanced on-chip image processing capabilities for tasks like auto-exposure, correction, and calibration. With their MIPI-CSI-2 interface, these sensors are well-suited for embedded vision and edge AI devices.

Previously exclusive to select customers, ST’s cutting-edge sensor technologies are now accessible across a wide range of markets through the ST BrightSense portfolio, emphasizing industrial-grade products and a commitment to 10-year longevity. The availability of these sensors, validated by the shipment of over one billion units in the market, enables developers to introduce high-performance machine vision to applications facing stringent size, power, and operational constraints. These applications span various sectors, including factory automation, scanning, domestic and industrial robotics, VR/AR equipment, traffic monitoring, and medical devices.

ST’s latest mass-market offering includes evaluation camera modules that seamlessly integrate the image sensor, lens holder, lens, and plug-and-play flex connector, facilitating instant sensor integration. These modules come in a range of compact form factors, some as small as 5mm², and offer multiple lens options to cater to diverse application needs. The plug-and-play connector simplifies the swapping process. Additionally, a series of hardware kits are available to aid developers in integrating the sensors with different desktop and embedded computing platforms. Complementary software tools, such as a PC-based GUI and Linux drivers, are downloadable from ST’s website to assist in integration with popular processing platforms like STM32MP2 microprocessors.

The ST BrightSense global-shutter family currently includes the VD55G0, VD55G1, and VD56G3 monochrome sensors with resolutions ranging from 0.38 Mpixel to 1.5 Mpixel, as well as the color VD66GY with 1.5 Mpixel. These sensors, along with their evaluation camera modules and development boards, are already in production, marking a significant advancement in camera technology. For more information, visit www.st.com/brightsense.