DENSO International America Inc. has invested in TriLumina Corp., a semiconductor laser technology company that focuses on providing light sources for LiDAR and interior illumination products. DENSO says it is looking to speed up the adoption of LiDAR and driver monitoring technologies in advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), which are key technologies used in autonomous vehicles. This strategic investment enables TriLumina to gain broader access to the automotive market.

TriLumina has developed eye-safe semiconductor lasers that are among the most versatile laser illuminator solutions available in the market. TriLumina is helping to accelerate the automotive industry’s adoption of semi-autonomous and autonomous vehicles by providing lasers for 100 percent solid-state LiDAR products and advanced driver monitoring systems.

“As a supplier of advanced driver assistance systems, DENSO is eager to work closely with TriLumina to bring high-performance, cost-effective light source solutions to the market,” said Tony Cannestra, director of corporate ventures for DENSO International America Inc.

TriLumina is targeting LiDAR and driver monitoring systems in the ADAS, as well as depth sensing and gesture control for the industrial robotics, commercial and consumer electronics markets.

“It’s critical to work with leading Tier 1 suppliers like DENSO as we introduce and deploy technology that will shape the automotive industry for years to come. It’s a tremendous endorsement of our technology to have DENSO engage as one of our Tier 1 partners, work with us to become qualified, and help fuel development,” said Kirk Otis, CEO of TriLumina.

DENSO’s Silicon Valley office actively works with startup companies and, through these types of partnerships, expects to gain access to new technologies in the areas of autonomous drive, electric vehicles, transportation, batteries and energy storage, while also expanding DENSO’s overall presence and visibility within entrepreneurial networks.