Introduction
In January 2026, Panasonic Industry launched its first flat-lens PIR sensor incorporating the new PaPIRs+ technology [citation:2]. This represents a significant advancement in motion sensing, with redesigned pyroelectric elements delivering twice the sensitivity of the previous PaPIRs generation. The Flat Wide Detection Type sensor is engineered for modern building automation, professional lighting control, and smart home markets where aesthetics and performance are equally important.
Key Technical Innovations
Redesigned Pyroelectric Elements
The core of PaPIRs+ technology is a complete redesign of the pyroelectric sensing elements. By optimizing the material composition and electrode structure, Panasonic achieved higher signal output without increasing the noise floor. This results in double the sensitivity compared to the previous generation, enabling detection of subtle movements including micro-motions from seated individuals [citation:3].
416 Detection Zones
The Flat Wide Detection Type sensor features 416 detection zones, providing gap‑free motion sensing across its entire field of view [citation:2]. This high zone density enables reliable detection of very small movements that would be missed by conventional sensors with fewer zones. The zones are arranged to ensure that any movement across the coverage area will cross at least one zone boundary, eliminating blind spots.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Field of View | 136.4° × 135.4° |
| Coverage at 3.0m ceiling height | ≈15 meters diameter |
| Detection Zones | 416 (gap‑free) |
| Lens Diameter | 32.6 mm |
| Current Consumption | Four variants: 1 µA, 6 µA, 60 µA, and 170 µA |
| Output Options | Digital (open-drain) and analog (op-amp) |
| Operating Temperature | –20 °C to +60 °C |
| Lens Color Options | White, pearl white, and black |
Detection Capabilities
The sensor reliably detects tangential, radial, and minor motion, validated under standardized IEC63180 measurement norms [citation:2]. This makes it suitable for true occupancy detection in office environments where workers may be seated for extended periods. According to Panasonic, the sensor “detects very small movements of not only moving but also sitting individuals across a large area” [citation:3].
Flat Lens Design Advantages
The flat lens addresses a long-standing aesthetic requirement from architects and lighting designers who prefer discreet, low-visual-impact hardware [citation:3]. Despite its slim appearance, the lens supports O-ring sealing for higher ingress protection ratings, making it suitable for demanding installations. The lens form factor is identical to Panasonic’s existing High-Bay Aisle “Ultra-Wide and Long-Distance Detection Type” sensor, allowing for design consistency across product ranges [citation:2].
Applications
- Office environments: Detection of seated workers for lighting and HVAC optimization
- Hotels and public buildings: Discreet occupancy sensing where aesthetics matter
- Professional lighting control: Integration with building automation systems
- Smart homes: Premium residential installations
- Educational facilities: Classrooms and lecture halls
Power Consumption Variants
The sensor is available in four current consumption variants to suit different application requirements [citation:2]:
- 1 µA version: Ultra-low power for battery-powered wireless sensors
- 6 µA version: Balanced power for most IoT applications
- 60 µA version: Standard performance for wired installations
- 170 µA version: Maximum sensitivity for critical detection applications
Conclusion
The Panasonic PaPIRs+ flat lens sensor represents a new benchmark in PIR technology. With double the sensitivity, 416 gap-free detection zones, and a sleek flat lens design, it is ideally suited for modern building automation and smart home applications where both performance and aesthetics are paramount.