Sensor technology developer Chirp will become a wholly-owned TDK subsidiary, providing exits to University of California and UC Berkeley’s Skydeck accelerator.
Chirp, a UK-based sensor technology developer partly based on University of California research, today agreed to be acquired by electronics manufacturer TDK for an undisclosed sum.
Founded in 2013, Chirp manufactures ultrasound microelectromechanical sensors (Mems) that can be embedded into computing and internet of things devices such as augmented or virtual reality consoles, smartphones, assisted driving systems and industrial automation machines.
The sensors use a piezoelectric effect, which converts kinetic or mechanical energy into electricity or vice versa, to operate with efficiency and precision.
TDK will operate Chirp as a wholly-owned subsidiary, using the ultrasonic technology to complement fingerprint sensors developed by its InvenSense unit.
Chirp supports the expansion of TDK’s sensor and actuator line, which includes pressure, temperature, current and magnetic products.
Chirp’s technology commercialises research from the Berkeley Sensor and Actuator Center at University of California (UC) Berkeley, as well as work from UC Davis.
The company had raised approximately $4m in funding prior to the acquisition, according to Xconomy, from investors including University of California, UC Berkeley’s Skydeck accelerator and America’s Seed Fund, operated by government-owned research agency National Science Foundation.
Chirp was also backed by Innobridge Capital Management, Draper Nexus, Vertical Ventures, Atlantic Bridge, Dolby Family Ventures, Peregrine Ventures and unnamed angel investors.
