A new tiny vision system, which has the potential to be used in many applications, has been developed by a team of researchers from the Centre Suisse d'Electronique et Microtechnique (CSEM) in Switzerland.

The team has developed the new technology called "Vision-In-Package" (VIP), which is less than 1 cubic centimeter in volume, by integrating a processor along with optics and a wireless transmitter all in one.

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The technology can be used to develop camera technologies that can recognize brand, guide robots for surgery, and assist vehicle drivers. It can also be used for home surveillance systems, according to a report.

Head researcher Edo Franzi of the CSEM said, "By completely rethinking what an optical sensor does, by approaching the technology development for what we want it to do and not simply thinking about how to combine already existing components, we have created a new way to approach optical applications."

Inspired by solar energy technology, the researchers were able to diminish the size of the whole system and create optic sensors that can interpret images even in very close range.

In addition to being so small, researcher Ross Stanley of the CSEM said the technology offers many advantages such as low-cost production and energy-friendliness.

He added that the VIP system could potentially pave the way for new smart sensors in many industries such as medical technology and drones for the agriculture sector. Furthermore, it can also be incorporated into existing systems. 

The research team plans to present their new technology at the Sensor+Test Fair, which will be held in Nuremberg, Germany on May 19. VIP is expected to be ready for commercial use by the end of this year.

TagsWorld's Smallest Camera, Vision-In-Package, VIP, Centre Suisse d'Electronique et Microtechnique, CSEM, Switzerland, Optics, Vision System, sensor