Date: 22/05/2012

EPIC sensor from Plessey Semiconductors for automotive applications

Plessey Semiconductors has launched the PS25203 EPIC sensor which is specifically aimed at the car manufacturer market. The new sensor is set to be launched at the Chicago Sensor Expo 2012. The sensor has a lower gain and higher input impedance making it suitable for certain types of contactless ECG measurement such as driver fatigue monitoring or seat occupancy. The EPIC sensor is a completely new area of sensor technology and works by measuring tiny changes in an electric field in a similar way to a magnetometer detecting changes in a magnetic field even at a distance and through clothing.

There are several applications where EPIC can be used in cars. For example, driver monitoring for health and alertness by detecting heart rate and respiration or determining the occupancy of the car to adjust the ride, handling and air bag deployment depending on the size and location of occupants. The EPIC sensor electrodes can be discretely incorporated inside the seat backs to acquire the necessary biometric data.

"Regulations and economics are meaning that car designs are all becoming very similar so that manufacturers have to differentiate their products by the user features and comfort inside the car," explained Derek Rye, Plessey Semiconductors' marketing manager. "We are only just starting to explore the new and exciting ways that these innovative sensors can be used to enhance and improve safety."

EPIC sensors are already in commercial production by Plessey Semiconductors. By adjusting the DSP and amplification circuitry, the sensors can be tuned for detection at a distance as required for these automotive applications.

The volume production price of PS25203 is in the range of $1-2. The PS25203 is supplied in a custom 4-pin PCB hybrid package measuring 10.5 x 10.5 x 3.45 mm.