Ams Osram Envisions Immersion and Efficiency With Next-Gen Infrared LEDs

Ams Osram has expanded its optical portfolio with the introduction of a new generation of Firefly infrared LEDs (IREDs), the SFH 4030B and SFH 4060B. These devices are specifically designed to meet the increasing performance, efficiency, and miniaturization requirements of eye tracking and biometric functions within next-generation smart glasses and AR/VR headsets.

Ams Osram has added a new-generation of Firefly IREDs with the release of the SFH 4030B and SFH 4060B devices. Image used courtesy of Ams Osram

Next-Generation Infrared LEDs (IREDs)

The new Firefly IREDs, the SFH 4030B and SFH 4060B, leverage Osram’s IR:6 thin-film chip technology. This chip architecture provides notable performance improvements over previous generations, delivering up to 50% brighter infrared illumination and a 33% increase in efficiency. For battery-powered wearable devices, this efficiency gain is crucial, directly translating into extended operating time.

Both IREDs share an ultra-compact form factor: 1.0 mm  × 0.55 mm  × 0.3 mm. They are designed to operate across a temperature range of -40°C to 85°C and handle a forward current (IF) of up to 70 mA. The devices feature a wide beam angle, 140° or 130°, which is advantageous for covering the large field of view necessary for reliable eye tracking across the periphery of a display.

The new Firefly IREDs feature an ultra compact build of 1.0 mm  × 0.55 mm  × 0.3 mm for use in space-constrained designs. Video used courtesy of Ams Osram

Wavelength Options for Optimized Camera Sensitivity

To give designers flexibility in optimizing their optical stack, the new Firefly generation is available in two primary peak wavelengths (λ).

The SFH 4030B features a peak wavelength of 950 nm. A new, additional wavelength of 930 nm has also been introduced in this product generation. This wavelength choice is intended to align with the optimal sensitivity range of common complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor camera sensors while simultaneously minimizing the visible “red-glow” effect that can be distracting or intrusive to the user. The SFH 4030B is specified with a typical radiant intensity (IE) of 9 mW/sr at IF​=70 mA, with a total radiant flux (ΦE​) of 48 mW.

The SFH 4060B features a peak wavelength of 860 nm. This standard wavelength is widely utilized for its balance of efficiency and sensitivity across various sensor types. The SFH 4060B provides similar performance with a typical radiant intensity of 9 mW/sr and a slightly higher radiant flux of 51 mW at IF​=70 mA.

The new Firefly IREDs are designed for eye tracking and biometrics in smart glasses and AR/VR headsets. Image used courtesy of Adobe Stock

“Invisible” Integration

A key mechanical innovation of the devices is the fully black package featured on both models. This all-dark housing is a design consideration that supports the growing demand for discreet, nearly invisible integration of optical components. In the transparent or lightweight frames of smart glasses and the interior of AR/VR headsets, minimizing the visibility of components aids in aesthetic appeal and user acceptance. This black-package benchmark intends to facilitate maximum design flexibility for placement around the eye box.

Modern Device Designs

The new generation of Firefly IREDs, the SFH 4030B and SFH 4060B, aim to deliver substantial improvements in optoelectronic performance and form factor. By utilizing IR:6 thin-film chip technology, the devices offer enhanced power efficiency, a necessity for modern mobile and wearable devices. The inclusion of the 930 nm option and the all-black package provides designers with crucial tools to optimize system camera sensitivity and minimize visual interference. 

The new devices are suited for biometric applications like high-accuracy eye tracking for foveated rendering, iris scanning for authentication, and other forms of optical sensing in mobile, wearable, and industrial devices where space is severely constrained and low power consumption is non-negotiable.