Calibration: Is it necessary if only the change in distance is the important value?

[videojames]

In our application, we don't necessarily need to know the true distance, we only need to know when it's in a certain range, and it doesn't matter if that range is represented as 30-40mm or 50-60mm, only that is consistent.

Can we get away with not needing calibration if this is the case?

We are using a VL53L1X aimed through a IR transparent plastic.

[John E KVAM · Accepted solution]

I think it depends. If you build your system with a thin, clear, optically flat glass near to the sensor, then no, the effect of the crosstalk will not significantly affect your range at that distance.

But be a little careful. If you choose a big air gap between sensor and the glass, or the glass is of poor quality, then you could be in trouble.

The final determination of the quality of glass would be the calibration return. But with this sensor, if it works for you, it works. But the build-it-and-see-if-it-works can be expensive.

Buy the P-Nucleo-53L evaluation kit and test the glass you are using at your expected air gap. It will save you a lot of money in the long run.

Read and understand the article at:

https://community.st.com/s/article/Time-of-Flight-Cover-glass

And you will be fine.

• john