Melexis Launches Free People Detection Algorithm for its FIR Array

Tessenderlo-Ham, Belgium 4 December 2025 – Melexis introduces a new algorithm for people detection, counting and localization, tailored for its MLX90642 far-infrared (FIR) 32×24 thermal array. This solution is a more privacy-preserving alternative to traditional cameras. Specifically designed for ceiling-mounted sensors in constrained spaces, it enables engineers to accelerate their development and quickly integrate advanced FIR-based people detection into the next generation of smart building applications.

Demand for advanced people detection is growing rapidly in smart building ecosystems, driven by the need for accurate occupancy monitoring, intelligent energy savings, low-power operation, and a more privacy-preserving alternatives to cameras. Unlike vision-based systems, FIR thermal sensing delivers reliable detection even in complete darkness while being more privacy-preserving, making it well-suited for offices, meeting rooms, and other sensitive environments.

The new Melexis people detection algorithm comes as a precompiled library supporting several commonly used microcontrollers (MCUs). Hardware-agnostic by design, the library requires only modest memory resources, giving engineers the flexibility to work across platforms. This ensures straightforward adoption without being locked to a specific MCU family and enables integration even on cost-optimized hardware. It has been optimized for space-constrained applications, such as elevator cabins, and delivers maximum performance for ceiling-mounted sensors.

Developed using Melexis’ extensive in-house FIR imaging expertise, the logic-based approach is optimized for the MLX90642 sensor’s low-noise performance and broad operating range. This ensures stable and predictable operation across different environments and scenarios, removing the retraining and thermal performance variability often associated with AI-based solutions.

In application, the algorithm processes thermal array data to detect people within its field of view (FoV), delivering accurate occupancy awareness – a critical component for many smart building systems. By adopting Melexis’ precompiled solution, engineers can minimize the need for highly specialized expertise and extensive development effort, reducing months of work while unlocking advanced functionality.

To further simplify evaluation, Melexis also launches a dedicated kit. The evaluation kit combines the MLX90642 sensor with pre-installed firmware running the people detection algorithm, giving engineers a ready-to-use platform to assess detection performance out of the box. Furthermore, configurable parameters allow testing under different scenarios, helping engineers validate suitability before committing to a design.

“This solution embodies our mission to go beyond just components and to find new ways to help engineers succeed by removing barriers to advanced technology adoption,” said Joris Roels, Marketing Manager at Melexis. AL

Both the people detection algorithm for the MLX90642 FIR array and a supporting evaluation kit are available. The algorithm will be accessible via MyMelexis for registered Melexis customers.

To learn more about the algorithm and evaluation kit, please visit melexis.com/Library-People-Detection