Will multiple TOF sensors (VL53L series specifically) in close proximity interfere with one another?

jds8086 · ‎2023-03-08

I am wanting to design a device that incorporates several TOF sensors in a uni-dimensional array for detecting an objects location. The sensors would have approximately 8mm of separation. Will they interfere with one another?

John E KVAM · ‎2023-03-09

Generally no.

Each sensor will 'see' the other sensors as ambient light - and discount it.

But with too much ambient, the sensors don't work as well.

But unless you place them looking directly at each other at close distaces it should be OK.

Keep in mind these sensors have a 'field of view' and output a cone of light - instead of a 'dot'.

the VL53l5CX will provide you with an 8x8 array of answers. That might be exactly what you want.

john

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John E KVAM · ‎2023-03-09

Generally no.

Each sensor will 'see' the other sensors as ambient light - and discount it.

But with too much ambient, the sensors don't work as well.

But unless you place them looking directly at each other at close distaces it should be OK.

Keep in mind these sensors have a 'field of view' and output a cone of light - instead of a 'dot'.

the VL53l5CX will provide you with an 8x8 array of answers. That might be exactly what you want.

john

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jds8086 · ‎2023-03-09

Thank you for your response.

So long as the sensors will report the closest object I believe there is a chance it will work out. I'm up for experimenting. But you do bring up a good point with the 8x8 sensor. Depending on it's field of view, that may work out very nice.

Here is a rudimentary drawing (top down view) of what i had in mind with the non-array sensors.

John E KVAM · ‎2023-03-10

There are 2 sensors you want to consider. Both have identical silicon, are pin compatible and the code is very nearly identical.

the VL53L5CX (L5) has a 45x45 degree field of view.

The VL53L7CX (L7) has a 60x60 degree FoV.

The L7's diffractive optics are made the same way we make silicon chips. So the L7 is a touch less expensive than the L5.

Given the FoV the L5's zones are about 5 degrees.

The L7's zones are proportionally larger.

These sensors are our most expensive, but they are less expensive that multiple single-zone sensors.

john

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jds8086 · ‎2023-03-12

Thank you

In regards to the L5 and L7, when using 4x4 resolution, is the FOV proportionally decreased or do the zones just cover a larger area?

John E KVAM · ‎2023-03-13

Zones are just larger. But with larger zones, you get more photon detectors per area. And with more detectors you can 'see' a bit farther and go a bunch faster.

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