A rugged global shutter camera combines RGB and infrared imaging with onboard processing to simplify always-on driver and occupant monitoring.
A newly introduced 5MP global-shutter RGB-IR camera from e-con Systems aims to streamline in-cabin monitoring by delivering consistent imaging across all lighting conditions—from bright daylight to complete darkness—using a single sensor.
Designed for driver and occupant monitoring systems, the camera outputs both full-color (RGB) and infrared (IR) streams simultaneously. This dual-channel approach allows AI systems to maintain accuracy regardless of ambient lighting, eliminating the need for multiple sensors or mechanical IR-cut filters typically used in automotive vision setups.
The key features are:
- Simultaneous RGB and IR output for continuous day/night operation
- Global shutter for distortion-free imaging of motion
- Onboard ISP for real-time RGB-IR processing
- Integrated 940nm IR illumination for low/no-light visibility
- Rugged IP67 design with −40°C to 85°C operating range
A key shift comes from its onboard image signal processor (ISP), which handles RGB-IR separation, demosaicing, and color reconstruction directly within the camera. By moving this processing away from the host system, the device reduces compute load on platforms such as embedded AI processors, allowing more resources to be dedicated to inference and application-level tasks.
The camera integrates 940nm IR illumination to ensure visibility in low-light and no-light environments, supported by high quantum efficiency. Built for deployment in demanding environments, it features an IP67-rated enclosure and operates across a wide temperature range from −40°C to 85°C.
To enhance reliability, the system includes continuous stream health monitoring that detects and recovers from issues across the sensor, ISP, and high-speed link. The camera connects via a GMSL2 interface, supporting both power and data transmission over distances up to 15 meters, with optional support for alternative interfaces.Beyond in-cabin monitoring, the camera is also positioned for industrial vision applications such as robotics and automation, where distortion-free capture and consistent performance are critical.
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