The IMX501 from Sony Corporation is a 1/2.3-type Intelligent Vision Sensor with AI processing functionality that enables high-speed edge AI processing and extraction of only the necessary data, which, when using cloud services, reduces data transmission latency, addresses privacy concerns, and reduces power consumption and communication costs. The pixel chip is back-illuminated and has approximately 12.3 effective megapixels for capturing information across a wide-angle of view. In addition to the conventional image sensor operation circuit, the logic chip is equipped with Sony's original DSP (Digital Signal Processor) dedicated to AI signal processing, and memory for the AI model. This configuration eliminates the need for high-performance processors or external memory, making it ideal for edge AI systems. 

This sensor features a stacked configuration consisting of a pixel chip and logic chip and is equipped with AI image analysis and processing functionality on the logic chip. The sensor outputs metadata (semantic information belonging to image data) instead of image information, making for reduced data volume, and addressing privacy concerns. Moreover, AI capability makes it possible to deliver diverse functionality for versatile applications, such as real-time object tracking with high-speed AI processing. 

The IMX501 is available in a ceramic LGA package that measures 12.5 (H) x 15.0 (V) mm and expands the opportunities to develop AI-equipped cameras, enabling a diverse range of applications in the retail and industrial equipment industries and contributing to building optimal systems that link with the cloud. Different AI models can also be chosen by rewriting internal memory in accordance with user requirements or the conditions of the location where the system is being used.