Rugged single-chip solution reduces automotive 3D HMI design costs

3D gesture recognition sensor, as the name implies, refers to three dimensions, three coordinates, that is, length, width, and height, in simple terms, it is three-dimensional. Then 3D gesture recognition can perform gesture recognition in a three-dimensional space. Using electric near-field sensing technology, the sensor can be placed in a plastic box to realize gesture recognition and distance sensing.

Automakers are increasingly looking to reduce driver distraction by implementing functional safety technologies in their vehicles. Many human-machine interface (HMI) designers are turning to gesture recognition as a solution to improve driver and vehicle safety while ensuring that interior design is not compromised, allowing drivers to focus on driving while still being able to easily control everything from turning on lights to answering phone calls. Microchip Technology Inc. has introduced a new three-dimensional (3D) gesture recognition controller with the lowest system cost in the automotive industry, providing a durable single-chip solution for advanced automotive HMI designs. As a new member of Microchip's easy-to-use 3D gesture controller family, the MGC3140 is the first 3D gesture controller that can be used in automobiles.

Microchip's new gesture controller is based on capacitive technology and is suitable for a wide range of applications that can reduce driver distraction and improve vehicle operation convenience. It is ideal for navigating infotainment systems, sun visor operation, interior lighting and other applications. This technology also supports the opening of foot-activated rear liftgates and any other functions that manufacturers want to integrate into the car with simple gestures. The MGC3140 is AEC-Q100 certified by the Automotive Electronics Council and meets the strict electromagnetic interference (EMI) and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements for automotive system design. Each 3D gesture system consists of a sensor and a Microchip gesture controller. The sensor can be made of any conductive material, while the gesture controller is designed for a specific application.

“With the MGC3140, we are leveraging proven gesture technology to deliver an interactive human-machine interface that helps drivers stay focused on the road,” said Fanie Duyenhage, vice president of Microchip’s Human Machine Interface business unit. “Microchip is committed to supporting the automotive market with our growing portfolio of touch and gesture controllers and advanced technical support. These devices provide customers with cost-effective gesture solutions that do not impact the vehicle’s interior design.”

Existing solutions such as infrared and time-of-flight technologies can be costly and operate poorly in bright light or direct sunlight, but the MGC3140 provides robust sensing performance in full sunlight and harsh environments. Other solutions on the market also have physical limitations, requiring extensive infrastructure and space to be integrated into the vehicle. The MGC3140 is compatible with ergonomic interior designs, allowing HMI designers to innovate with fewer physical constraints, as the sensor can be any conductive material and can be hidden from view.

development tools

The Emerald evaluation kit provides a convenient evaluation platform for the 3D gesture recognition controller. The kit includes a standard printed circuit board (PCB) in the MGC3140 controller, a PCB-based sensor (for gesture recognition), and all necessary cables, software and documentation to support an easy-to-use user experience. All parts are compatible with Microchip's Aurea software development environment and support all Microchip 3D gesture controllers.