“ST’s latest ToF sensor has special advantages in data analysis and patterning AI”

ST, CNH Apply Technology to Solve Data-Related AI Industry Challenges
Implementing Infinite AI-Based Applications with Versatile Optical Sensors
December 21st Latest ToF Sensors for AI Applications Webinar

[Editor’s Note] STMicroelectronics’ latest multi-zone ToF sensor is specialized for AI applications with CNH (Compact and Normalized Histogram) technology. CNH data transforms ST’s TOF sensor into a versatile optical sensor that can enable infinite AI-based applications. Furthermore, CNH raw data is expected to be applied to a variety of new applications beyond simple distance measurement. ST will provide more details on ToF sensors that support AI applications in the e4ds webinar on December 21. Ahead of the webinar, we spoke to presenter Nam Hyung-don, ST Vice President, about ST's ToF sensor.

▲Nam Hyeong-don, ST Vice President

■ What products will be introduced in the webinar on December 21st?

This webinar will introduce the latest ToF sensors that can transmit larger amounts of data and can be utilized in AI applications.

We will also introduce the Compact and Normalized Histogram (CNH) technology and show videos and demos on how to use CNH.

■ Please introduce ST's AI applicable ToF sensor and tell us why it is attracting attention.

The AI applicable ToF sensor has a wide diagonal field of view and delivers improved performance under ambient light, making it the perfect ToF sensor to support AI applications.

The innovative data CNH output with compact and normalized histograms is specifically designed for artificial intelligence applications that require multi-zone raw data from high-performance ToF sensors.  

These characteristics are attracting attention as they show advantages in AI that analyzes and patterns data.

■ What are the main application areas?

In addition to standard distance measurement data, CNH raw data transmitted to the host opens the door to a variety of new applications beyond simple distance measurement.

It is possible to detect the position and size of cups in coffee machines or vending machines, detect floor materials for robotics, and develop recognition of complex shapes, movements or hand gestures, from solid materials such as carpets, wood, glass and mirrors to gases or liquids (water, oil and chemicals).

■ What are the key market/industry requirements and benefits?

AI technology learns and makes decisions based on data, and we are thinking about how to obtain high-quality data quickly and in large quantities.

ST is solving these challenges in the AI industry by applying CNH technology.

It reduces costs by transmitting and storing much smaller data than traditional histogram formats, and makes it easier to compare and interpret data.

Multi-zone support also allows for more detailed analysis of spatial variations in ToF data.

■ What are the differences compared to competitors’ products (or existing products)?

ST's latest TOFThe sensor uses CNH technology to act as a versatile optical sensor, enabling limitless AI-based applications.

This CNH raw data transmitted to the host along with standard distance measurement data opens the door to a variety of new applications beyond simple distance measurement.

It also has the advantages of low power, multi-zone, near/far detection, compact and small integrated module structure, wide FOV, and easy operation.

■ Please say a word to e4ds readers regarding the content introduced today.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to e4ds readers who took the time to attend and share their interest in ST's TOF sensor.

ST will do its best to support you in creating the best products that will be selected by the market and loved by consumers.

Thank you for your interest.