Laser Distance Measurement Device
While working at Robbox, Kevin developed prototypes and preproduction units using off the shelf laser distance measurement module. At the time, there were very few, if any, manufacturers who offered cost competitive laser distance modules. The idea was floated to investigate creating an inhouse module.
After leaving Robbox, the idea never lefts Kevin’s head and a thought of “how hard can it be” entered Kevin’s brain.
Thus, we now have modularized prototypes of the MCU, DAC and ADC, laser driver, and demodulator PCBAs.
MCU Prototype
Prototype MCU board using NXP RT1064 as the controller for the modulation and demodulation. This MCU was selected for its high clock frequency (600MHz) and its ability to entice firmware “resources” to join the project. Communication to the outside world can be done with USB 2.0 through the USB C connector, 100Mbps ethernet, and 3 CAN interfaces. The board also contains a USB PD controller (U1), external RAM (U5), external flash (U4) using QSPI, and a 6-axis IMU (U10).
This was also our first foray with 0.65mm pitch BGAs and the use of 0201 capacitors.
Laser Driver Prototype
This simple PCBA is designed to driver the laser diode using analog inputs of bias (brightness) and modulation. As feedback, the photodiode inside LD1 is connected to a transimpedance amplifier. This voltage generated is split with one end going out the SMA connectors to the demodulation PCBA, and the other going to a low pass filter to close the loop of the constant current driver.
DAC and ADC Prototype
TBA