Melexis has introduced an advanced sensing device called MLX90620 FIRray, which addresses the cost problems that are normally associated with thermal imaging.
MLX90620 FIRray
The sensor device uses a new non-contact temperature measurement technology to produce a cost-effective thermography solution. It covers a temperature range of -20°C to 300°C and generates heat values for a specific area in real time. This eliminates the need to use a costly microbolometer device or to check the area with a point sensor.
When integrated into the thermal imaging system, the far infrared thermopile sensor captures 64 pixel two-dimensional images, thereby maintaining the price range required for low cost and high volume applications. When a pixel is combined with an ADC and amplifer, the sensor array provides a frame rate from 0.5 to 64 Hz. When the array is operated in the 0°C to 50°C range, precision levels of ±1.5°C can be maintained. It features two field of view options such as 40°x10° and 60°x15°.
The MLX90620 is equipped with a triggered mode with a control unit and a I2C compatible digital interface that allow it to be utilized either separately or combined in various devices to produce a bigger imaging resolution array. Heimann Sensor GmbH and Melexis have co-developed the advanced sensor array.
The sensor array can be used in a number of applications like occupancy classification, close range blind spot detection, and pedestrian detection. The array is packed in a TO-39 can. In addition, a PC demonstration software and an evaluation board allow rapid product development for system assimilation.