Best ST ToF Sensor for Daylight Performance and Long Detection Range

[stbayram]

Hello,

I understand that ToF sensors inherently have limited performance under daylight conditions. However, I would like to know which ST ToF sensor family currently offers the best performance in daylight, regardless of whether it is a single-point or multi-zone sensor.

The VL53L9 series looks very promising for our application, but unfortunately, its cost is above our target budget. Therefore, I am looking for a more cost-effective alternative that still provides good performance under daylight conditions.

A wider FOV would be preferable for our application.

Would it be reasonable to select a sensor based primarily on its maximum specified detection range? If so, the VL53L1 series seems to be a good candidate. However, I am not sure whether the maximum specified range is the best parameter to use when comparing sensors for real-world daylight performance.

I also assume that a wider FOV reduces the number of photons received per unit area, which could potentially reduce the sensor's performance and maximum range. Is this assumption correct?

In short, I would appreciate your recommendation for the best-value ST ToF sensor series for daylight performance, preferably with a wide FOV and the longest reliable detection range possible, while staying below the cost of the VL53L9 series.

Thank you.

[Andrew Neil]

What do you consider “long” range here ?

 

unfortunately, its cost is above our target budget

So what is your target budget ?

[stbayram]

I think a detection range of 1.5–2 meters can be considered a reasonable long-range target under direct sunlight.

Regarding the budget, we can go up to approximately $10 per unit.

[Zhiyuan.Han]

Hi  

First let me try to answer your question,

“I also assume that a wider FOV reduces the number of photons received per unit area, which could potentially reduce the sensor's performance and maximum range. Is this assumption correct?”

if the emitter VCSEL power is identical, then the wider FOV, the less energy back to receiver, and then less maximum ranging distance. 

Based on your request to 2 meters, I would propose VL53L8CX, which is a multi zone sensor, if possible to rang up to 2 meter under direct sun, this is depend on target reflectance. and you can try to play with Integration time, the longer integration time, the longer maximum ranging distance. 

or you can try VL53L1(single zone product), but it’s hard to range up to 2 meter. 

 

Br

Zhiyuan.Han

[John_Kvam]

When the VL53L8 came out, I did a lot of tests in really bright sunlight. I found that using a 4x4 configuration (instead of the 8x8) got better results. There is no definitive answer to how far you can range as the direction of the sun has a lot to do with the range. Sunlight perpendicular to the line between sensor and target is easier than with the sun directly behind either the target or the sensor. And of course, the target reflectivity is important. I was using a rather tall, skinny 16-year-old as a reference in bright California sun, so your results will vary.  

For outdoor the L8 is really your only choice if you can’t afford the L9.