Smart glasses could get even smarter through custom sensing with a motion tracking IMU (inertial measurement unit) from TDK called InvenSense SmartMotion. The new approach incorporates machine learning to enable responsive, motion context-aware smart eyewear to be used in AR and VR wearables that are moving up the tech stack to become even smarter. (But not smarter than the person wearing them—although not guaranteed!)
The custom ICM-45685 sensor comes with on-chip sensor fusion and memory to support multiple algorithms so smart glass users can simultaneously benefit from precise head orientation tracking, image stabilization, activity tracking and other features. Those features will soon even include “donning and doffing” (which is a fancy engineering way of saying the device knows when the user has placed the glasses on or off the eyes) and voice vibration detection.
Separately, TDK also offers other sensing solutions for smart glasses and AR glasses such as 9-axis position sensing, as TMR (tunnel magneto resistance) sensor for the glasses themselves to know when the hinges sense the glasses are in use or closed, low power MEMS microphones for voice activated AI and human machine interface, ultrasonic time of flight sensors for precise gesture tracking and temperature sensors for ambient body temperature monitoring.
TDK said the head orientation accuracy is enhanced with an on-chip gyro-assisted fusion (GAF) algorithm, electronic and optical image stabilization for the camera module, and activity tracking with ML and the InvenSense sensor inference framework (SIF). There is also vibration rejection with TDK’s BalancedGyro technology and an ultra-low power IMU, to help extend battery life.
The IMU is six access with a 3-axis accelerometer and 3-axis gyroscope on a single chip, according to Song Li, director of product marketing at TDK Invensense, who spoke to Fierce.
Li said the smart glasses market has seen some ups and downs with future projections over a big range. However, he said he foresees shipments of 32 million units in 2030 up from 4 to 6 million in 2025. “AR and VR will see explosive growth,” Li said.
While 80% of smart glasses run on IMUs, TDK is able to run multiple software features simultaneously. “It’s our biggest advantage,” said Jekwon Yoon, director of software systems at TDK Invensense. The IMU is also ultra-low power even while running software algorithms inside.
Currently, direct customers of TDK are testing the ICM-45685, which is built on its predecessor ICM-45686, already widely adopted for AR/VR, Li said. The new version is available through direct sales inquiry only at invensense.tdk.com/smartmotion or via [email protected].
