Ivmech Mechatronics Ltd.
Video & Cameras
PitFusion
Add a thermal camera to your Raspberry Pi or compatible SBC
Ivmech Mechatronics Ltd.
Video & Cameras
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.
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
| PitFusion | Thermal Imaging Module | IR Thermal Camera | PureThermal 3 | Tracam Thermal | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Ivmech Mechatronics | Waveshare | Adafruit | GroupGets | Lextar |
| Thermal Resolution | 32 x 24 | 80 x 62 | 32 x 24 | 160 x 120 | 324 x 256 |
| Thermal Frame Rate | Up to 32 Hz | Up to 25 Hz | Up to 32 Hz | Unknown | Unknown |
| Image Sensor | 5 MP | None | None | None | ~2 MP (estimated) |
| Thermal Overlay | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| Price | $159 | $89 | $75 | $383 | > $400 |
Pitfusion is open hardware, and we are making our design files 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.
PitFusion’s open-source software is under active development and may require further optimization as users integrate it into more diverse applications. We will continue maintaining and improving our Python libraries, documentation, and sample code after the campaign.
We’ve developed and tested several functional prototypes of PitFusion, and we’re now ready to transition into production. Our manufacturing plan is designed to ensure high-quality, consistent builds with minimal risk.
We have established relationships with trusted manufacturing partners in Shenzhen, China, who specialize in small-batch electronics production and camera module assembly. These manufacturers have been vetted for quality control, communication reliability, and experience with thermal sensors and RPi-compatible hardware.
Once the campaign has ended and funds have been transferred, we’ll immediately move into final preparations for production and fulfillment.
After our production run is complete, we will package everything up and send it along to Crowd Supply’s fulfillment partner, Mouser Electronics, who will handle distribution to backers worldwide. You can learn more about Crowd Supply’s fulfillment service under Ordering, Paying, and Shipping in their guide.
We’ve worked hard to minimize risks by thoroughly prototyping PitFusion and establishing relationships with experienced manufacturers. However, as with any hardware project, there are still challenges that could impact the production schedule or fulfillment process:
Global electronics supply chains can be unpredictable. While we haven not pre-sourced key components like the thermal sensor and the camera module, we are prepared to place orders as soon as we receive campaign funds. Sudden shortages or lead-time extensions may still impact production, but we have identified alternate suppliers where possible to help mitigate this risk.
Unexpected issues during assembly—such as component misalignment or firmware flashing errors—could lead to delays. To address this, we’ve built a pilot run into our timeline and will implement a strict quality-control process during mass production.
Customs delays, global shipping bottlenecks, and regulatory compliance issues (such as CE or UKCA marking) could affect the delivery schedule. We’re working closely with Crowd Supply and Mouser Electronics to ensure proper documentation and smooth import/export handling.
We are committed to transparency and will provide frequent updates throughout production, testing, and fulfillment to keep backers informed and confident.
"A Melexis MLX90640 thermal sensor sits next to a five-megapixel visible-light camera in this sensor-fusion add-on for the Raspberry Pi."
"This compact solution is engineered for applications in automation, robotics, security and environmental monitoring, catering to both professionals and DIY enthusiasts."
" enables embedded designers and hobbyists working with Raspberry Pi or other compatible single-board computers to simultaneously capture thermal and visible light images."
Produced by Ivmech Mechatronics Ltd. in Ankara, Turkey.
Sold and shipped by Crowd Supply.
The PitFusion Standard Kit is a compact, all-in-one imaging module that combines thermal and visible-light imaging using the MLX90640 thermal array and Raspberry Pi Camera Module. Perfect for automation, robotics, security, and environmental monitoring applications. Includes the PitFusion senor module, an RPi HAT, and an FFC cable
· ivmech.com · ivmech · IvmechMekatronik
We founded our company in 2012 to focus on interaction with sensors, whether that's camera modules or Raspberry Pi hats.
