An ultra-wideband (UWB) sensor has been introduced by Novelda that works in the smart home and building automation to accurately detect human presence. The company will be showcasing the sensor at the upcoming CES 2022 trade show.
The sensor uses impulse radar to detect presence and motion for touch-free interaction with everyday products such as laptops, smart refrigerators and lighting.
The sensor works by detecting movements made when humans breathe to perceive human presence. The sensor works even if subjects are under a duvet or wearing several layers of clothing. Measuring 12 mm x 12 mm, including antennas, the UWB sensor can be completely hidden in a device and operate through glass, plastic or wood.
“This next generation of human sensors designed for smart home and intelligent building automation will make environments more context-aware to improve interactive experiences, reduce the cost of powering a device when no one is around, and extend screen life by preventing unnecessary backlighting, reducing overall energy consumption,” said Jan-Bjørnar Lund, CEO of Novelda.
Use cases for the sensor include:
- Touchless-screen displays
- LED lighting
- HVAC control
- Wireless health monitors
- Baby and sleep monitors
- Premium laptops, including those from Lenovo, which is using the sensor
Novelda said UWB sensors outperform other technologies such as passive infrared or time of flight sensors for both security and accuracy.
