Rambus lensless smart sensor (LSS) technology enables a new generation of low-power sensing by capturing information-rich images with a low-cost phase grating, standard image sensors and sophisticated computational algorithms.
More specifically, the spiral grating of LSS diffractive optics (hardware), coupled with sophisticated computational algorithms (software); reduce computation time while facilitating application-specific design flexibility. Simply put, computation is effectively pushed past the ‘edge’ and performed on the LSS sensors themselves.
This makes LSS an ideal choice for a diverse set of use cases, including head-mounted eye tracking for VR/AR, smart buildings, spot tracking, foot traffic and location monitoring for sales data collection, as well as smart airbag deployment and automotive climate control. As thin as 1 millimeter thick for a grating and a sensor, lensless smart sensor technology is compact enough to integrate directly into existing devices and applications – facilitating accurate sensing capabilities that are virtually invisible to the end user.
In an effort to accelerate LSS adoption and further explore additional use cases, Rambus is hosting a Partners-in-Open-Development (POD) program. As part of this initiative, we have created an evaluation kit that enables customers and partners to rapidly assess LSS performance and develop custom algorithms for specific applications. The latest iteration of the kit – POD 2.0 – includes a board with an LSS module and USB 3.0 interface, apps, firmware, software development kit (SDK), mounting hardware, reference algorithms, tutorials and documentation.
“The LSS evaluation kit allows OEMs to analyze system performance and develop algorithms for new applications. It includes everything required to gauge the effectiveness of lensless smart sensors for a diverse set of use cases, while offering an ideal base for customized development,” Kendra De Berti, Director of Solutions Marketing at Rambus explained. “In terms of hardware, POD 2.0 is built around an OmniVision OV7251 and USB 3.0 interface. The evaluation hardware also packs integrated NIR LEDs with a wide spectral response (350nm – 1000nm), supporting OEM deployment in a diverse range of lighting conditions.”
Additional key LSS features and specs include low power consumption at less than 0.8W, dual gratings for reconstructed stereoscopic viewing, a variable frame rate up to 100fps, C&C signals that can be controlled directly via onboard headers, as well as integrated software for Windows and Linux.
“The small form factor and wide depth of field facilitates unparalleled near field imaging ability for numerous applications,” DeBerti added. “Last, but certainly not least, LSS generates actionable image data while still preserving privacy.”
Interested in learning more about Rambus lensless smart sensors? You can check out our LSS page here and article archive on the subject here.
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