Key Takeaways
- RoboSense launches SPAD-SoC platform and image-grade chipsets for 3D perception technology
- The company's strategy combines in-house chipset development with module engineering for improved performance and cost targets
- The LiDAR industry is transitioning from analog to digital architectures, with SPAD-based designs offering improved performance and cost scaling
- RoboSense's EOCENE SPAD-SoC platform is designed for production-oriented development and standardization of research and development
Introduction to RoboSense's 2026 Tech Day
RoboSense, a leading robotics technology company, recently held its 2026 Tech Day in Shenzhen, where it unveiled its self-developed SPAD-SoC architecture, EOCENE, along with two image-grade chipsets, Phoenix and Peacock. The company also previewed an RGBD sensor scheduled for release in 2027, marking a significant milestone in its roadmap for 3D perception technology.
LiDAR Industry Transition
The LiDAR industry is undergoing a significant transition from analog to digital architectures, similar to the earlier shift from CCD to CMOS in image sensors. According to RoboSense, analog architectures face limitations in performance scaling and cost, while SPAD-based designs can leverage semiconductor manufacturing advances and established process infrastructure. The move towards higher beam counts and image-grade performance is continuing, with 2160-beam systems corresponding to a 4-megapixel class and 4000-beam systems reaching an 8-megapixel class output.
Comparison of LiDAR Systems
| System | Beam Count | Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| 2160-beam | 4-megapixel | Medium-range detection |
| 4000-beam | 8-megapixel | Long-range detection and advanced driver assistance |
EOCENE: SPAD-SoC Platform
RoboSense introduced EOCENE, its SPAD-SoC architecture platform, designed to support a production-oriented development model and standardize parts of its research and development process. The EOCENE SPAD-SoC architecture includes four functional layers:
- Fundamental process layer: Based on a 28nm process node with automotive-grade design, including a third-generation SPAD design with 45% photon detection efficiency
- Core computational layer: Includes a configurable 4320-core heterogeneous compute array and a network-on-chip architecture supporting 495 billion point-cloud samplings per second
- Algorithm acceleration layer: Includes hardware-based anti-interference and signal-processing functions, with up to 99.9% sunlight noise suppression and 99.9% crosstalk immunity through pixel management
Bottom Line
RoboSense's launch of its SPAD-SoC platform and image-grade chipsets marks a significant step forward in the development of 3D perception technology. With its EOCENE platform, the company is well-positioned to support the growing demand for advanced driver assistance and autonomous driving systems. As the LiDAR industry continues to transition towards digital architectures, RoboSense's commitment to in-house chipset development and module engineering is expected to drive innovation and growth in the market.