Multispectral and multi-view MIPI cameras for embedded vision

Vision Components has expanded its MIPI camera portfolio with two embedded vision solutions: a multispectral camera module based on Sony’s IMX454 sensor and a multi-view camera integrating nine global shutter sensors, both aimed at high-speed, data-rich machine vision systems.

Multispectral imaging in a compact MIPI module
The VC MIPI IMX454 Camera Module combines a 2.13-megapixel Sony IMX454 image sensor with an ultra-compact, industrial-grade MIPI design. The sensor integrates pixels equipped with eight different spectral filters, enabling the capture of multispectral 2D image data in a single exposure. This architecture eliminates the need for sequential filtering or multiple sensors when acquiring spectral information.

The rolling shutter module supports frame rates of up to 120 frames per second at 10-bit resolution. It captures spectral data across wavelengths from 450 nm to 850 nm in 10 nm increments, allowing high-resolution material characterization. These capabilities support applications such as agricultural monitoring, robotics, medical imaging, environmental analysis, and industrial quality control, where spectral classification and sorting are required alongside spatial resolution.

Multi-view imaging with synchronized data output
A second development is the VC MIPI Multiview Cam, which integrates nine camera modules based on the OmniVision OV9281 global shutter image sensor. The sensors are mounted on a robust aluminum PCB and can be configured with defined optical filters. Depending on configuration, the camera array captures objects from multiple viewing angles and/or across customized wavelength ranges.

This setup enables spatial 3D reconstruction as well as detailed surface and material analysis based on spectral properties. An onboard FPGA aggregates the image data from all nine sensors and outputs them as a single MIPI CSI-2 data stream. As a result, the entire camera array can be connected to a standard processor board through one MIPI interface, simplifying system integration.

Embedded processing flexibility
The FPGA architecture supports different levels of computing performance, depending on application requirements. This allows pre-processing of image data directly within the camera system, reducing the processing load on the host processor. The approach simplifies processor selection for end applications and supports scalable embedded vision designs.

Modular plug-and-play integration
Both the VC MIPI IMX454 Camera Module and the VC MIPI Multiview Cam are part of the VC MIPI Bricks system, which includes more than 50 MIPI-based camera modules. The modular platform is designed for plug-and-play integration, ensuring compatibility across embedded vision systems while supporting long-term availability for industrial deployments.

All Vision Components MIPI camera modules are developed and manufactured in Germany to industrial-grade standards, addressing requirements for reliability, consistency, and lifecycle stability in embedded vision applications.

Industry presentation
Vision Components will present these MIPI camera solutions at SPIE Photonics West, held from January 20 to 22 in San Francisco, California, at Booth 3462.

www.vision-components.com