STMicroelectronics (ST) introduced the VL53L9 direct Time-of-Flight (dToF) 3D LiDAR sensor module at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona in 2024. This ready-to-use, low-power module boasts on-chip dToF processing capabilities, eliminating the need for additional components or calibration. It provides ranging from 5cm to 10m and integrates dual-scan flood illumination, allowing for the detection of small objects and edges while capturing 2D infrared (IR) and 3D depth information in the scene with a resolution of up to 2,300 measurement points. This dToF 3D LiDAR module was also showcased at ST’s booth during the Shenzhen International Optoelectronic Exposition in September of this year.

The key feature of this dToF 3D LiDAR module is its truly integrated design, with everything needed contained within the compact sensor. It is capable of transmitting processed 2D images, depth data, and confidence maps at a rate of 60 frames per second. Additionally, there is a raw histogram output mode that can be fed into an Artificial Intelligence (AI) system for further processing. This dToF 3D LiDAR module utilizes two Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser (VCSEL) chips developed by LONGERAY, achieving high point cloud resolution and long-range operation. It can be used to assist smartphone cameras in rapid focusing, background blurring, and video tracking in low-light environments, as well as for spatial depth information acquisition in Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR), Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) information generation and obstacle avoidance in robotics, gesture recognition, and wake-up of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, among other application areas.

“ToF sensors can accurately measure the distance to objects in a scene, a feature that is enabling exciting new functionalities in applications such as smart devices, household appliances, and industrial automation,” said Alexandre Balmefezol, General Manager of ST’s Imaging Division. “We have already delivered 2 billion ToF sensors to the market and continue to expand our portfolio, ranging from the simplest single-zone devices to the latest high-resolution 3D iToF and dToF sensors.”

Behind every outstanding product lies the cooperation of high-quality suppliers. The Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser (VCSEL) is a core component of optical sensor modules. Changzhou LONGERAY Semiconductor Technology Co., Ltd. (“LONGERAY”) and STMicroelectronics (ST) have collaborated extensively on the VCSEL chips for this sensor. Leveraging its strong expertise in epitaxial design and growth, as well as VCSEL chip design, LONGERAY developed a custom VCSEL product for ST that boasts high photoelectric conversion efficiency, high temperature stability, and high consistency in mass production. After rigorous product evaluations, performance comparison tests, long-term reliability verifications, and comprehensive assessments by ST, LONGERAY ultimately stood out. ST’s requirements for product quality are as meticulous as a “microscope” when selecting partners, and they spare no effort in implementing international standards in the supply chain certification process. This demonstrates the excellent performance, superior quality, and comprehensive advantages of LONGERAY’s products, which have been recognized by this international corporation.

STMicroelectronics (ST) has commenced sampling of the VL53L9 dToF LiDAR module to key customers, with full commercial availability slated for late 2024. Vertilite, its strategic VCSEL partner, is fully prepared to support this rollout, as the customized VCSEL solution has now entered the pre-mass production phase. Dr. Ryan Rao, Chief Product Officer of Vertilite, remarked: “We are honored to collaborate with STMicroelectronics, a global industry leader. This partnership not only validates the exceptional quality of our products but also underscores the international competitiveness of China’s homegrown VCSEL technology. We will continue to invest in R&D and production capabilities to ensure the delivery of high-performance, reliable VCSEL solutions to ST and its global clientele.”

About STMicroelectronics

STMicroelectronics (ST) is a global semiconductor leader founded in 1987 through the merger of Italy’s SGS Microelettronica and France’s Thomson Semiconducteurs. With over 50,000 employees worldwide, ST drives innovation in smart mobility, power and energy management, IoT, and connectivity. Its product portfolio includes microcontrollers, MEMS sensors, power devices, and optical sensors, securing its leadership in automotive, industrial, and consumer electronics markets.

About Vertilite

Founded in 2015, Vertilite specializes in the R&D, design, and production of vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) for consumer electronics, automotive, and optical communications. With 250 million chips delivered and a zero-field-failure record, Vertilite has achieved multiple industry firsts:

• 2018: First Chinese VCSEL supplier for mass-produced smartphones.

• 2020: First globally to achieve automotive-grade certification for a VCSEL chip.

• 2021: First to enable DMS ToF pre-installation mass production for automotive.

• 2022: First Chinese VCSEL supplier for automotive LiDAR pre-installation.

• 2023: First to surpass 1 million VCSEL units shipped for automotive LiDAR.

• 2024: First to mass-produce 2D addressable VCSELs for solid-state LiDAR.