Cron AI, whose specialties include their adaptive 3D edge perception platforms, and programmable optical semiconductor experts Lumotive, have anounced a partnership. The goal is to develop new 3D sensor technology: a solid-state lidar design with integrated deep learning features augmented by Lumotive’s Light Control Metasurface (LCM) chip. The idea is to address the limitations of prior systems by combining their strengths into one cohesive design based on Lumotive’s 3D Sensing development kits.
These kits facilitate the creation of a system similar to a camera module, featuring a software-defined region of interest (ROI) which supports dynamic extended range, higher frames per second, and high resolution. Object detection and perception layers, such as those from Cron AI, can dynamically control these capabilities.
This LCM-based, ‘AI’-enabled sensor surpasses simple camera/lidar combinations. It integrates key camera functionalities like license plate recognition with lidar capabilities such as precise object detection, classification, speed and location tracking, data fusion, and comprehensive environmental data. The deep learning layer then processes this data in real time, generating actionable ‘insights’ for various applications.
This combined sensor exceeds the capabilities of traditional mechanical lidar and camera systems, delivering cost-effective, top-tier performance in a compact package.
The two companies say this approach can benefit autonomous vehicles and V2X, intelligent transport systems and the Vision Zero initiative; crowd and people management (with real-time monitoring and analysis for security, safety, and space optimization), and smart cities and security.
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Lumotive’s award-winning programmable optical semiconductors boost perception and computing power, and ensure reliable high-speed communication across industries. Their LCM chip, a software-defined photonic beamforming technology, addresses key demands in sectors like 3D sensing and AI computing.
