Gesture Recognition Solution Powered by STMicroelectronics VL53L7CX and VL53L8CX Sensors

STSW-IMG035 is an easy-to-use and reliable gesture recognition solution that operates with Time-of-Flight sensors VL53L7CX and VL53L8CX. The software package comes with a comprehensive set of development tools, including ready-to-use code examples and a user-friendly graphical interface, which helps to streamline the design process.

This software supports both sensor models. The gesture recognition algorithms can detect various types of movements:

— Single and double taps
— Swipes in four directions (left, right, up, and down)
— Circular hand movements
— Level control

Thanks to integrated libraries, the application can run on microcontrollers based on Cortex M0+, M3, M33, M4, and M7.

To utilize the graphical interface, a Nucleo expansion board (either X-NUCLEO-53L7A1 or X-NUCLEO-53L8A1) is required alongside the NUCLEO-F401RE development board. Debugging modules (SATEL-VL53L7CX or SATEL-VL53L8CX) can also be connected to the STM32 Nucleo for additional flexibility.

Enhanced privacy: unlike camera-based solutions, this system does not capture images; it solely analyzes distance data.

Performance remains unaffected by the target’s reflectivity.

It operates effectively under all lighting conditions, including low-light environments.

Gesture recognition is functional even while wearing gloves.

The compact nature of the sensors simplifies integration, allowing them to blend in behind dark glass.

Gesture recognition can be applied across a wide range of applications:

Home Appliances: coffee machines, stoves, ovens

Public Spaces: vending machines, elevator call buttons

Personal Electronics: smart speakers, laptops, tablets, AR/VR headsets

Support for VL53L7CX sensors (8×8 zones, 90° field of view) and VL53L8CX sensors (8×8 zones, 65° field of view).

Precise hand tracking in space (X, Y, Z coordinates).

A ready-made integration example with STM32F401 (sensor setup, calibration, and library demonstration).

An available gesture library for Arm Cortex microcontrollers.

An intuitive graphical interface with widgets for managing gestures, viewing images, and controlling slides.

Data logging functionality for debugging and playback.