Omron expands the D6T series of Super-Sensitive Non-Contact MEMS Thermal Sensors


Omron Electronic Components has extended its non-contact MEMS thermal sensor range with the addition of a narrow-field version specifically designed to provide accurate non-contact measurements of objects’ temperature for industrial control and building automation systems. Omron has relaunched its full range of MEMS thermal sensors in Europe, including wider field versions ideal for detecting room occupancy and similar applications.

The new Omron D6T-1A-02 is a super-sensitive infra-red (IR) temperature sensor that makes full use of proprietary Omron MEMS sensing technology. It can measure the surface temperature of an object between -40 up to +80°C in the target area with an accuracy of +/-1.5°C and a resolution of only 0.06°C. The device includes a state-of-the-art MEMS thermopile, a sensor ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) and a signal processing microprocessor in a tiny package measuring just 12.0mm x 11.6mm x 9.2mm. The D6T-1A-02 features a narrow field of view of 26.5 degrees square, allowing it to accurately assess the surface temperature of a specific object in this area. Features also include a digital I²C output which offers excellent noise immunity (measured as noise equivalent temperature difference) of 140mK.

The Omron D6T thermal sensor is also ideal for building automation applications, measuring the temperature in a room, or detecting occupancy even when people are stationary. For these applications, Omron is also offering versions with a wider field of view. These include a 1×1 device, the D6T-1A-01, with a 58 degrees square field of view, the D6T-44L-06 a 4×4 array version and the D6T-8L-06/09 1×8 version with a choice of specifications are also available. These ultra-sensitive sensors are an outstanding alternative to pyroelectric sensors or PIR detectors in home automation, building automation, security and industrial applications, which often fail to distinguish between an unoccupied space and a stationary person.

While standard thermal sensors are only able to measure temperature at one contact point, the D6T range can measure the temperature of an entire area contactlessly. Signals generated by infrared rays are extremely weak. To achieve reliable detection, Omron has developed and manufactured every part of the new high sensitivity thermal sensor in-house, from the MEMS sensors to the ASICs and other application-specific parts.

The technology behind Omron’s D6T thermal sensors combines a MEMS micro-mirror structure for efficient IR radiation detection with a high-performance silicon lens to focus the infrared rays onto its thermopiles. The ASIC then uses proprietary algorithms to make the necessary computations and convert sensor signals into digital I²C outputs. All components were developed in-house and are fabricated in Omron’s own MEMS facilities.

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