Multi-zone ToF ranging sensor detects multiple objects at up to 4 m

VL53L5CX detects separate objects in up to 64 zones in a wide field of view.

Part of the ST FlightSense™ product family, the VL53L5CX combines an infrared vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) emitter and a single-photon avalanche diode (SPAD) array of photodetectors. Diffractive optical elements above the emitter enable the sensor to perform ranging in various ambient lighting conditions, and through a range of cover glass materials. 

The sensor can be configured to divide the square 45° or diagonal 63° field of view into an array of 4 x 4 or 8 x 8 zones. This allows for the detection of multiple objects. The VL53L5CX can also detect the direction of movement of nearby objects, enabling functions including gesture detection, implemented with ST’s STSW-IMG035 turnkey solution, and presence detection. 

Unlike conventional IR sensors, the VL53L5CX uses direct ToF technology which enables absolute distance measurement whatever the target color and reflectance, and can operate at a fast 60 Hz. 

The VL53L5CX is supplied with patented ST algorithms which enable it to detect various objects, and which also provide immunity to cover glass crosstalk at a range of more than 60 cm.