DATA MODUL integrates radar-based presence sensor into monitors

The currently available DATA MODUL solution is available for monitors with eMotion UHD-II scaler boards. In the standard use case, the display brightness is adjusted accordingly depending on whether people are in the vicinity of the monitor. In general, the display could even be switched off completely if necessary. Reducing the brightness or switching off the display as required significantly reduces the operating costs of the monitor and also considerably increases its service life.

Apart from the aforementioned purpose, the data from the radar sensor can also be used to ‘trigger’ different events. Example: If a person approaches a monitor equipped with a radar sensor (e.g. at the POS), the content shown on the display could change from a full-screen advertising film to a table with information. This allows a targeted and precise customer approach to be realised.

The parameters of the sensor function, such as sensitivity or range, can be adjusted via OSD (On Screen Display); for example, the detection range can be adjusted between 2 metres and >10 metres. The DATA MODUL radar sensor module has an I2C interface. This means that other eMotion boards and embedded platforms can be combined with the sensor if required. For special applications, an API could also be implemented on the DATA MODUL platforms to allow customers remote access to the sensor data (e.g. via RS232 or DDC/CI).

For implementation in our system solutions, we use a highly integrated 60GHz radar sensor chip with a size of just 6.5mm x 5.0mm x 0.9mm (including antennas), a detection range of up to 15 metres and a detection angle > 160°; the operating temperature range of the sensor is between -20°C and +70°C. The radar sensor is mounted on a circuit board in the front frame of the monitor, on which two light sensors are also mounted: One of these is used for the ALC (Ambient Light Control) function, which can optionally control the backlight depending on the ambient brightness. The second light sensor is used for the DPM (Display Performance Monitoring) function, which monitors the status and brightness of the display. The sensor board also has status LEDs and an IR receiver for remote control applications.

For typical presence detection even under difficult environmental conditions, radar technology offers many advantages over other sensor technologies. Depending on the design and operating frequency of the sensor, very long ranges and detection angles can be achieved. In addition, a radar sensor is insensitive to ambient light (e.g. high IR radiation), resistant to dirt and vandalism and therefore also ideal for outdoor applications. The sensor – typically mounted behind a plastic cover – can be easily integrated into the front panel of a monitor.

Interested?
Don't hesitate to contact your DATA MODUL sales partner for more information!