PitFusion is a powerful yet compact imaging solution that integrates a Melexis MLX90640 thermal sensor with a Raspberry Pi Camera Module. This enables users to capture thermal and visible images simultaneously, making it an essential tool for automation, robotics, security, and environmental monitoring applications.

The name "PitFusion" is inspired by the pit viper snake, which uses organic heat receptors to detect thermal signatures.

The Heat is On

PitFusion is an incredible asset for anyone hoping to detect heat, and the plug-and-play compatibility with Raspberry Pi devices makes creating different types of devices for any number of roles and industries simple:

Automation: Enhance machine vision systems with thermal detection
Security: Detect unauthorized activity based on thermal fluctuations
Environmental monitoring: Track temperature changes and heat leaks in sensitive areas
DIY: Integrate into existing machine vision Raspberry Pi projects to capture thermal data

Features & Specifications

• Thermal Sensor: Melexis LX90640 (32 x 24 pixel array)
• Camera Sensor: OmniVision 0V5647 - comparable to the RPi Camera Module v1.3 (2592 x 1944)
• Temperature Range: -40° C to 300° C
• Frame Rate: Up to 32 Hz (thermal), 30 fps (camera)
• Spectral Range: 8 µm to 14 µm (optimal for human body and object detection)
• Interfaces: I²C (thermal sensor), CSI (camera)
• Software Support: Compatible with Raspberry Pi, Python, OpenCV, and custom APIs
• Dimensions: 40 x 30 x 10 mm (1.57 x 1.18 x 0.49 in)
• Weight: 15 g (0.53 oz)

Comparisons

Support & Documentation

Pitfusion is open hardware, and our design files are available under the GPL-3.0 license. You can find our source files on GitHub. Schematics and layout files will be available after the campaign has ended.