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Leading automotive technology solutions provider, HELLA, has chosen Jenoptik to supply a laser-optical subsystem for its new PM2.5 particle sensor for automotive applications. The sensor will make it possible to reliably and precisely measure minute concentrations of particulate matter inside vehicles and in their immediate environment. Jenoptik's custom precision polymer optics and the high-accuracy 5-axis adjustment of the optoelectronic system help to achieve high measuring accuracy in the PM2.5 particle sensor.

The project contract, concluded between the companies stipulates that series production will begin in 2020. The contract is expected to run for a total of nine years. The first customer for the sensors is a European premium manufacturer that primarily intends to integrate the sensor into its Asian vehicle fleet. Going forward, the vehicles will each be equipped with two PM2.5 particle sensors. The PM2.5 class sensors can measure particle sizes below 2.5 micrometers in diameter.

One sensor monitors and optimizes air quality inside the vehicle by automatically controlling the air supply and through the efficient use of air filters. The second sensor measures the fine dust concentration in vehicle’s immediate environment. It can be used for air quality information purposes and to automatically control air circulation. In the future, it will also be possible to use the PM2.5 particle sensor to implement other digitized applications, such as route planning that takes local air quality into account.

Measuring Accuracy is the Decisive Factor

At the heart of the particle sensors is a laser diode and polymer optics developed and manufactured by Jenoptik, which combine to form a full laser optic system using high-precision five-axis adjustment. Only this way is it possible to guarantee the high measuring accuracy of the particle sensor, which detects particles down to a lower limit of even 0.3 micrometers in diameter. The high measuring accuracy is significant because fine dust particles of this size penetrate deep into the lungs, where they accumulate and cause a risk to health.

Implementation of this high measuring accuracy across the measuring and temperature range is a real challenge. In Jenoptik, HELLA team has found an experienced partner whose core competencies include developing, manufacturing and assembling precision optical systems. The companies intend to build on their partnership, with a view to attracting further customers in the automotive industry, as well as for applications in other industries, with their innovative technologies and products.