LeddarTech, an established player in the solid-state ADAS LiDAR market, has unveiled key insights about its LeddarCore IC roadmap, which is set to enable low-cost, high-performance solid-state LiDARs for multiple automotive safety applications from ADAS to autonomous driving.
During the Sensors EXPO held in San Jose, LeddarTech’s management confirmed that two LeddarCore IC programs are in the works: the LC-A2, targeting the automation layers 1 to 3, with the first samples scheduled for the second half of 2017, and the LC-A3, which will meet the specifications for automation layers 2 to 4, with an expected sample availability in 2018.
This next-generation LeddarCore ICs enables:
- Affordable ADAS and autonomous functions, where LiDAR replaces or complements camera and/or RADAR
- High-density 3D point cloud LiDAR for higher levels of autonomous driving
- Support for both flash and beam steering LiDAR
With ranges reaching 250m, a field of view up to 140º, and up to 480,000 points per second (with a resolution down to 0.25º both horizontal and vertical), the LeddarCore ICs will enable the design of affordable LiDARs for all levels of autonomous driving, including the capability to map the environment over 360 degrees around the vehicle.
Analysts expect LiDARs to become a central element of the autonomous car’s sensor suite. The chipsets’ raw data output will make them perfectly suited for advanced sensor fusion solutions that combine data from various types of sensors to provide a holistic perceptual mapping of a vehicle’s surroundings.
The company is currently in the process of selecting a partner for the design, manufacturing and joint commercialization effort of the new LeddarCore ICs on a massive scale.
With the unveiling of this roadmap, LeddarTech officially adds its name to the select list of technology innovators racing to supply car makers with LiDAR solutions that meet stringent automotive requirements.
"With such advanced ICs integrating the most efficient optical detection and ranging capabilities, automotive component manufacturers and system integrators will be equipped to deliver high-performance solid-state LiDAR sensors and enable the deployment of advanced automation capabilities to the mass markets," explained LeddarTech CEO Charles Boulanger.
This technology roadmap reiterates LeddarTech’s philosophy of collaborative development, according to Mr. Boulanger.
"Rather than commercializing a one-size-fits-all LiDAR as a finished product, LeddarTech provides best-in-class LiDAR core technology packaged into chipsets. We put our unique expertise in LiDAR at the service of our clients, enabling them to develop optimized LiDAR designs to drive proprietary, differentiated ADAS/AD solutions," he added.
"This flexible business model fosters the close collaboration between technology providers, Tier-1s and OEMs, which is paramount for the successful deployment of such novel, disruptive automotive technologies."
The roadmap presented also reinforces LeddarTech’s commitment to providing Tier-1 suppliers and OEMs with a mass-market LiDAR sensing technology that meets the cost, size, robustness, and performance requirements of automotive deployments.
