Osram launches 810nm and 940nm infrared LEDs for iris scans and facial recognition biometric identification in automotive sector

Osram Opto Semiconductors GmbH of Regensburg, Germany has launched two new infrared LEDs (IREDs) for biometric identification applications in the automotive sector.

Biometric identification offers many benefits, not least the time and frustration saved in searching for car keys. For example, if more than one person uses the same car, personalized information such as the seat position and favorite radio stations can be automatically set as soon the person steps into the car. In future, the new Synios SFH 4772S A01 or Synios SFH 4775S A01 infrared LEDs will help the vehicle to identify the driver using iris scanning or facial recognition, unlock the doors and even disable the engine immobilizer.

“With these products we are covering a number of different applications and have now succeeded in extending biometric identification to cars,” says Walter Rothmund, marketing manager automotive for Emitter Laser Sensor at Osram Opto. “Once more, light-based technology is laying the foundation for innovations in the vehicles of tomorrow.”

Picture: Osram’s new Synios SFH 4772s a01 IR LED.

The SFH 4772S A01 is suitable for use in iris scanning systems. This application is best known at present for unlocking smartphones and tablets without the need for a password. The IRED functions as a light source, illuminating the iris with infrared light in a suitable wavelength so that a camera can capture an image of the iris pattern – whatever the color of the eye. The system then compares this information with the stored data and unlocks the device if there is a match. SFH 4772S A01 emits infrared light with a wavelength of 810nm and achieves an optical output of 1070mW at 1A.

The SFH 4775S A01 is particularly suitable for facial recognition and driver monitoring, among other things. Both these applications ideally require a wavelength of 940nm. The IRED has an optical output of 1650mW at 1.5A, but has also been designed for high pulse loads up to 5A.

Osram says that, with these two new components, it is offering greater freedom of design, and not only because of the compact dimensions of 2.0mm x 2.8mm x 0.6mm. Depending on requirements, customers can place matching optics over the component to save space. The two power emitters are Lambertian emitters with flat encapsulation. Double-stack chip technology ensures high output power. Available from spring 2019, both products are qualified for automotive applications and approved for temperatures up to 125°C.

Tags: Osram IR LED

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