RealSense has just unveiled its new D585 Pro, a depth camera designed to be the 'intelligent eyes' for the next generation of robots.
At its core, this camera features its own powerful AI chip, a Gen5 SoC. This means it can process visual data like detecting people right on the camera itself, rather than sending raw data to the robot's main computer. This approach, called 'on-camera AI,' is a game-changer. It drastically cuts down the data bandwidth by up to 75%. For a robot using four cameras, the data load becomes equivalent to just one old-style camera. This simplifies wiring, reduces the burden on the main processor, and ultimately lowers the total cost and complexity of building a robot.
This development couldn't be more timely. It perfectly complements the rise of powerful robot 'brains' like NVIDIA's Jetson Thor. As central processors become more capable of handling complex decision-making, there's a growing need for peripherals to become smarter and more self-sufficient. The D585 Pro embodies this principle of division of labor: the 'eyes' (sensor) handle the immediate perception tasks, freeing up the 'brain' (host) to focus on higher-level planning and action.
Several recent events have paved the way for this launch. First, NVIDIA's recent announcements for humanoid robot safety software and its GR00T reference design have highlighted the need for reliable, on-board perception. The industry is clearly moving towards making robots safer and more autonomous, which requires better sensors.
Second, the real-world demand is already here. BMW, for example, is deploying humanoid robots in its factories, proving the need for advanced vision systems that can work closely and safely with humans. This trend, combined with competitive pressure from companies developing other advanced sensors like color LiDAR, has pushed the industry toward more integrated and intelligent solutions.
Finally, the groundwork has been laid over the past year. RealSense's spin-out from Intel gave it the agility to innovate, and new safety standards have made advanced perception a near-necessity. The D585 Pro is not just a new product; it's the culmination of trends in AI, robotics, and industrial automation, representing a significant step towards more capable and accessible robots.
- Physical AI: Artificial intelligence that interacts with the physical world through robotics, enabling tasks like manipulation and navigation.
- GMSL (Gigabit Multimedia Serial Link): A high-speed communication protocol used in automotive and industrial applications to transmit video, audio, and control data over a single cable, ideal for robust multi-camera setups.
- SoC (System-on-a-Chip): An integrated circuit that combines all or most components of a computer or other electronic system into a single chip.