dToF LiDAR Platform Utilizing SiPM Sensor Technology Unveiled
Designed for application in industrial distance measurement applications


LiDAR applications are being actively utilized in all fields, including the robotics industry and industrial proximity sensing, where millimeter-level accuracy is essential.

On the 10th, ON Semiconductor unveiled a new direct time-of-flight (dToF) LiDAR solution based on SiPM (Silicon Photomultiplier) technology.

The SiPM dToF LiDAR platform can detect objects within a distance of 10 cm to 23 m. In addition, it provides an out-of-the-box experience (OOBE) through a provided GUI, enabling engineers to immediately begin technical evaluations. The platform's design complies with IEC/EN 60825-1:2014 and 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11 laser safety standards and has obtained FDA certification.

This solution is primarily based on dToF, a method that measures the time it takes for a light pulse to travel back and forth over an object at near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths.

Although the principle of this method is simple, its application may be difficult due to environmental factors such as strong sunlight intensity. To accurately measure distance, the receiver must capture as many signals as possible.

ON Semiconductor's SiPM sensors have overcome these drawbacks by reducing response time and increasing detection efficiency. The reference platform utilizes ON Semiconductor's second-generation SiPM sensor, the RB-series, to provide enhanced performance at wavelengths between red and NIR.

In addition, it provides OEMs with a complete solution for low-cost single-point LiDARs for industrial distance measurement applications. This includes NIR laser diodes, SiPM sensors, and optics, as well as the digital processing required to convert detected signals into elapsed time and elapsed time back into distance.

"Distance measurement using dToF LiDAR meets the requirements of numerous applications, ranging from autonomous navigation through mapping to monitoring," said Wyren Perera, Head of IoT Strategy. "The SiPM dToF LiDAR platform clearly demonstrates the effectiveness of leading technology, enabling customers to perform proof of concept (PoC) much faster and bring products to market quickly."