EC: Leddar M16 multi-element sensing module

Sensors: Optimized for 0- to 50-m sensing applications, the Leddar M16 Multi-Element Sensing Module contains 16 independent active elements, providing continuous, rapid and accurate detection/ranging (including lateral discrimination) in the entire wide beam, without any moving parts. This is a Control Engineering 2015 Engineers’ Choice finalist.

By Control Engineering October 20, 2014

The Leddar M16 module is based on patented Leddar technology. When LeddarTech developed it a few years ago, the goal was to create an alternative to expensive, complex, or fragile sensing solutions. It had to be different, yet effective, rugged, versatile and economical.

The result was an advanced sensing and distance measurement technology that provides continuous, rapid and accurate detection/ranging, covering wide or narrow beams, without any moving parts. One of the main innovations behind Leddar is the use of LEDs in its time-of-flight measurement approach. The diffused lightbeam enables the detection of a wide range of objects, under various/harsh conditions, making the module suitable for countless applications.

The true uniqueness of Leddar lies in the algorithm, the way the light is pulsed, and the signal oversampling/accumulation, which provides excellent accuracy and range with a very low-power device. As LEDs are low-power and the light is pulsed, only a fraction of the LEDs’ illumination time is used, keeping consumption low and lifetime long. This is particularly important for remote installed applications, as maintenance is minimal.

Compared to competing detection technologies (laser scanners, radar, video, thermal imaging, ultrasonic and passive infrared), Leddar excels in the widest range of criteria (detection range, ruggedness, speed, accuracy, cost, etc.), offering exceptional overall performance for the price.

Key characteristics of Leddar are undoubtedly its adaptability and easy integration. The module comes with software development kit and can be adapted to suit specific applications (various beam options, with or without enclosure, different ranges, etc.). This allows brand owners/OEMs/integrators in diverse fields to seamlessly integrate value-added sensing capabilities into their innovations/processes, enabling them to increase efficiency and productivity.

Leddar modules are successfully deployed worldwide in industries such as transport, automotive (ADAS), industrial automation, security/surveillance, smart lighting/parking/buildings, entertainment, consumer electronics and home appliances, defence/military/aerospace/aeronautic, energy and environment, etc.

LeddarTech, www.leddartech.com