Low-light performance with resolutions ranging from 1.2MP to 8.3MP, ASIL-C functional safety

ON Semiconductor, driving energy efficient innovations, has announced a scalable family of CMOS image sensors ideal for a wide range of applications related to Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving. This new sensor family, based on a common platform and feature set, enables automakers and tier-one suppliers to design powerful imaging devices.

ON Semiconductor's new sensors range in resolution from 1.2 megapixels (MP) to 8.3 MP, and feature large 4.2 µm pixels for industry-leading low-light performance. Additional features include functional safety up to ASIL-C, high-dynamic range (HDR), an industry-first cybersecurity option, and second-generation wafer stacking technology that reduces package size. Multiple technology partners are currently testing individual products within this platform, and Mobileye and NVIDIA are testing compatibility with their DRIVE AI computing platform for autonomous vehicles.

The scalable image sensor family, supporting a variety of resolutions suitable for next-generation ADAS and autonomous driving systems, includes the AR0820AT, AR0220AT, and AR0138AT. Automakers require a variety of resolutions depending on the product line, which includes specific safety features as standard. However, by adding cameras or using higher resolution cameras, we can provide our customers with improved safety and advanced features.

As the automotive industry moves from Level 2 systems like standard Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and Lane Change Assist (LCA) to fully autonomous driving, ON Semiconductor's image sensors enable advanced ADAS and autonomous driving capabilities. Furthermore, their large 4.2 µm pixels deliver leading performance in low-light environments, including night-time emergency braking for pedestrians and cyclists – a safety requirement for Euro NCAP (European Car Assessment Program). Furthermore, the new image sensor family's cybersecurity technology ensures reliable and secure operation when multiple cameras around the vehicle are connected to a central system where data and commands are relayed via wires between the sensors and processors.

For advanced imaging capabilities, software and algorithm testing are the most time-consuming tasks during the development phase. Leveraging ON Semiconductor's scalable image sensor portfolio, customers can begin initial development with a single sensor, tailoring algorithms to pixel performance and system capabilities, and then expand resolution through additional testing. This will shorten the project time and reduce the overall development costs associated with building a camera system.

“As the number of image sensors on a vehicle increases, having a scalable platform with common core technologies and pixel architecture will enable automakers to deliver new safety and autonomous driving features faster and more efficiently,” said Ross Jatou, vice president and general manager of the Automotive Solutions Division at ON Semiconductor. “We are committed to engaging closely with our customers and leveraging the advanced capabilities of our new image sensor family to empower them in their ADAS and autonomous driving program development efforts.”

ON Semiconductor will showcase its new scalable image sensor portfolio, along with a range of advanced semiconductor-based products, including automotive solutions, at CES 2018. ON Semiconductor imaging experts will be on-site throughout the event to answer questions about solutions for automotive image sensor applications. ON Semiconductor's booth will be located at the Sands Convention Center or the Venetian Hotel (Murano 3302).