Infineon radar counts people entering buildings

  • August 4, 2020
  • Steve Rogerson

German chip company Infineon has developed radar-based technology for counting people entering public buildings, retail stores, restaurants or corporate spaces.
 
Governmental regulations all over the world have created an urgent need for ways to secure social distancing in public buildings to support slowing down the spread of Covid-19. Within three months, Infineon Technologies has developed technology that counts people entering and leaving buildings or rooms and ensures social distancing at the same time.
 
The smart entrance counter is a miniaturised, discrete radar board (20 by 15mm) that accurately and anonymously counts people with one single 60GHz radar sensor and integrated software. A traffic light system informs if an entry is allowed or not.
 
“We aimed at quickly creating an effective solution that allows everyone of us to securely move within public spaces, in offices, airports or restaurants according to the regulations of the so-called new normal,” said Andreas Urschitz, president of the power and sensor division at Infineon Technologies. ”Our smart entrance counter is a closed system. On the one hand, it prevents overcrowding, on the other hand, it enables businesses to keep their operations running. And, most importantly, due to the use of radar technology personal data are 100 per cent protected. The system counts a person, but does not know who it is.”
 
The expected volume for this kind of product amounts to 90 million units globally. Infineon’s smart entrance counter with Xebsiv 60GHz radar sensor works contactlessly and can be installed on the side or ceiling of an entrance or exit. It can be implemented in all kinds of building, such as public buildings, retail and grocery stores, restaurants, schools or corporate spaces, for example canteens, offices and the like. Furthermore, Infineon is already working on a version with more features.
 
The Smart entrance counter – Kit BGT60TR13C Embedd – with integrated software is available for evaluation. The second generation will be available next month.