Gesture control tech: One on Infrared based and other an-ultrasonic

Non-touch gesture control interfaces is gaining popular for use in consumer electronics as well as to control desktop computers and automotive infotainment sys. There are two recent announcements on the technologies related to gesture control; one from Vishay based on Infrared, and other from Elliptic Labs based on ultrasonic waves. Vishay Intertechnology has come out with a gesture controlled interface system based on digital proximity sensor and two discrete infrared emitters. Vishay’s new gesture control sensor board consists of a Vishay Semiconductors VCNL4020 integrated proximity and ambient light sensor and two of Vishay’s VSMF2890RGX01 infrared diodes mounted on either side of the sensor. The detection of gestures using these components is accomplished by comparing the signal of infrared light coming from each of the emitters. The emitted infrared light is reflected from an object, for example a hand, and then detected by the VCNL4020 proximity sensor. In order to differentiate between the signals coming from either emitter, the emitters are multiplexed, meaning they are pulsed one after the other in quick succession. A high radiant intensity of 80 mW/sr typical at 200 mA allows for the detection of hand gestures up to 25 cm above the sensor board. The proximity signal is then read out between each pulse via the I2C bus interface. When a hand is in the proximi...