Smart AI sensor system is a digital fitness coach, says Bosch
The BHI360 is a new programmable IMU-based sensor system from Bosch Sensortech which combines a gyroscope with an accelerometer that enables full customisation. The integrated sensor fusion library enables 3D audio with head orientation for personalised sound experiences as well as simple gesture recognition.
Bosch Sensortec also introduced the BHI380 variation which equips the sensor with additional algorithms. BHI380 is based on the same architecture as the BHI360 but also includes self-learning AI software suitable for a wide variety of fitness tracking, and which enables personalised workouts. Dedicated swim tracking software measures swimming style and boosts users to the next fitness level, for example, while the pedestrian dead reckoning (PDR) algorithm helps users reach their destination, even when the GPS signal drops out for a few minutes. This means it is particularly suitable for hearable and wearable devices.
The smart sensor system has an integrated, low power custom processor which can run simpler sensor processing algorithms itself, such as gesture detection or step counting. Doing this avoids waking the main device processor to keep power consumption low. The custom processor also helps achieve better power consumption for high-end algorithms.
According to BoschSensortec, the BHI360 / 380 is the most intelligent programmable IMU ever, with the most powerful built-in microprocessor, paired with an extensive software library of integrated algorithms.
The sensor is provided in a compact 20-pin LGA package measuring 2.5 x 3.0 x 0.95 mm3. This means it is 50 per cent smaller than the previous generation of sensor, and that it is the smallest programmable dual-core IMU sensor in the market.
Typical total current consumption is less than 600 microA for 3D orientation. It provides fast SPI (50MHz) and I2C (3.4MHz) host interfaces, as well as multiple SPI, I2C and GPIO interfaces for external sensors.
Typical applications include pedestrian navigation, 3D audio, personalised fitness tracking, and human machine interaction.
Bosch is highlighting the BHI360 and BHI380 at CES 2023 in Las Vegas (05 to 08 January).
The BHI360 is available at Bosch’s distribution partners from April 2023 and the BHI380 is available on direct request from May 2023.
