5MP global shutter camera for in-cabin monitoring

Vision systems used in automotive safety and industrial automation increasingly rely on multi-spectrum imaging to ensure reliable detection across varying lighting conditions. In this context, e-con Systems^® introduced the STURDeCAM57, a 5MP global shutter RGB-IR camera designed for in-cabin monitoring and embedded vision applications.

Combined RGB and infrared imaging for in-cabin monitoring
The STURDeCAM57 is designed for Driver Monitoring Systems (DMS) and Occupant Monitoring Systems (OMS), where continuous visual data is required under changing lighting conditions. The camera uses an automotive-grade image sensor capable of streaming RGB and infrared frames as separate channels, allowing AI vision platforms to process both colour imagery and infrared contrast data from a single device.

This approach enables continuous monitoring in daylight, low-light, and no-light environments without the need for multiple cameras or sensor switching mechanisms. The camera is also designed for integration with embedded AI platforms such as NVIDIA^® Jetson™ systems.

On-board image processing reduces host computing load
The camera integrates an on-board Image Signal Processor (ISP) configured to handle RGB-IR separation, demosaicing, and colour reconstruction internally. This architecture reduces the need to perform these processing tasks on the host computing platform, allowing more processing capacity to be allocated to AI inference and application workloads.

This design approach reflects a broader trend in embedded vision toward distributing image processing closer to the sensor to improve efficiency in AI vision pipelines.

Designed for low-light operation and automotive environments
STURDeCAM57 incorporates 940 nm infrared illumination combined with high quantum efficiency to maintain visibility in low-light and zero-light conditions. The system is housed in an IP67-rated enclosure and supports operating temperatures from −40 °C to 85 °C, enabling use in automotive and industrial environments.

The camera also includes stream health monitoring and recovery functions that continuously track the operational status of the sensor, ISP, and GMSL2 interface to maintain stable data transmission.

Applications beyond automotive cabin monitoring
In addition to in-cabin automotive monitoring, the 5MP global shutter architecture supports machine vision tasks requiring distortion-free capture of moving objects. These include industrial automation applications such as pick-and-place robotics, where motion artefacts must be minimized.

The camera also provides enhanced dynamic range for high-contrast environments and supports data and power transmission over GMSL2 connections up to 15 m, with optional FPD-Link IV support. Compatibility is provided with NVIDIA^® Jetson AGX Orin, Orin NX, and Orin Nano platforms, as well as evaluation through the Darsi PRO AI Compute Box.

Integration and customization for embedded vision deployments
The STURDeCAM57 is supported by customization and integration services intended to help adapt the camera and associated compute platforms to specific deployment requirements. This includes support for system integration and adaptation to application-specific imaging or processing requirements within embedded vision and AI-based inspection systems.

Edited by industrial journalist Aishwarya Mambet, with AI-assistance.

www.e-consystems.com