7 Real-World Applications of LiDAR Technology

LiDAR is a versatile technology that finds extensive applications in diverse fields such as mapping, ranging, security, 3D scanning, surveying, positioning, and interactive media, among others.

In the following, we will elaborate on each of these scenarios and introduce the LiDAR types used in each.

Let's dive in!

Mapping

Figure: LiDAR Mapping

(credit: https://semiwiki.com)

LiDAR can be used for mapping because high-precision LiDAR can capture almost all details of the surrounding environment. These LiDARs can use laser or millimeter-wave technology to scan the scene and generate point cloud maps, thereby creating high-precision digital maps. These maps can be used for navigation and path planning of autonomous vehicles, robots, drones, etc.

The LiDAR types used in mapping are laser LiDAR and millimeter-wave LiDAR. Laser LiDAR uses a laser beam to scan the surrounding environment, capturing the distance and shape of objects. Millimeter-wave LiDAR uses radio waves to scan the scene to generate digital maps. These LiDARs are usually installed on autonomous vehicles, robots, or drones to quickly scan the surrounding environment.

Ranging

Figure: LiDAR Ranging

(credit: https://denso-x.com)

LiDAR can help measure the distance and speed of objects by measuring their distance and speed. This technology can be used to measure distance, speed, and position, thereby supporting real-time target tracking and positioning. LiDAR can be used to measure the distance, speed, and position of vehicles and pedestrians, thereby improving road safety.

The LiDAR types used in ranging are millimeter-wave LiDAR and ultrasonic LiDAR. Millimeter-wave LiDAR uses radio waves to measure the distance, speed, and position of objects. Ultrasonic LiDAR uses ultrasonic waves to measure the distance of objects. These LiDARs are usually installed on cars to help drivers with ranging during driving.

Security

Figure: LiDAR used in Monitor

(credit: https://unsplash.com)

LiDAR can also be used in the security field, such as security, monitoring, and control systems. LiDAR can be used to monitor the surrounding environment to help people detect potential security risks in time. For example, vehicle safety systems can use LiDAR to detect obstacles ahead, thereby preventing collisions. LiDAR can also be used to monitor hazardous areas and monitor borders to detect illegal activities in a timely manner.

The LiDAR types used in security include millimeter-wave LiDAR and infrared LiDAR. Millimeter-wave LiDAR can scan the surrounding environment, detect any existing objects, and identify their location. Infrared LiDAR can identify the location of an object by detecting infrared radiation. These LiDARs are usually installed on monitoring cameras or border security systems to detect potential security risks in a timely manner.

3D Scanning

Figure: LiDAR Generate 3D Models

(credit: https://www.towill.com)

LiDAR can be used to generate 3D models. By using laser LiDAR scanning, people can generate very detailed 3D terrain models, which can be used for terrain analysis, building measurement, and urban planning. LiDAR can also be used to capture 3D models of artworks and cultural relics for digital preservation and cultural heritage protection.

The LiDAR type used in 3D scanning is laser LiDAR. Laser LiDAR uses a laser beam to scan the surrounding environment to measure the distance and shape of objects. These LiDARs are usually installed in scanners used to scan buildings, artworks, and cultural relics.

Surveying

Figure: LiDAR Map

(credit: A lidar map of Lynnhaven Inlet, Virginia. https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/lidar.html)

LiDAR can be used for map-making and building measurement. Using laser LiDAR for surveying, one can capture accurate contours, heights, and sizes of buildings, thereby improving surveying accuracy. LiDAR can be used to create 3D maps, building stereograms, and land contour maps, thereby providing support for geographic information systems (GIS).

The LiDAR type used in surveying is laser LiDAR. Laser LiDAR uses a laser beam to scan the surrounding environment to measure the distance and shape of objects. These LiDARs are usually installed on drones or scanners used to scan buildings, terrain, and land.

Positioning

Figure: LiDAR Positioning

(credit: https://www.freepik.com)

LiDAR can be used to locate people and objects. By using millimeter wave LiDAR, people can track the position and speed of vehicles, pedestrians, and other objects in real-time. This technology can be used for navigation, road safety, and monitoring moving targets in areas such as airports, train stations, and public places.

The LiDAR type used in positioning is millimeter-wave LiDAR. Millimeter-wave LiDAR uses radio waves to measure the distance, speed, and position of objects. These LiDARs are usually installed on cars, boats, and drones to help people track and locate targets.

Interactive Media

Figure: LiDAR Create Art

(credit: https://surveyinggroup.com)

LiDAR can also be used to create interactive media. By using LiDAR scanning, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) applications can be created. This technology can create realistic games, virtual experiences, and interactive displays. For example, people can use LiDAR to scan exhibition halls and museums and create interactive VR experiences.

The LiDAR type used in interactive media is millimeter-wave LiDAR. Millimeter-wave LiDAR can scan the surrounding environment to detect people's positions and movements and interact with them. This technology can be used to create gesture-based interactive applications and games.

Summary

In conclusion, LiDAR has extensive applications in various fields such as mapping, ranging, security, 3D scanning, surveying, positioning, and interactive media. With continuous technological innovation and progress, LiDAR technology will become more and more popular and play a role in more fields. Different LiDAR types are used in different scenarios, so it is necessary to select different types of LiDAR according to different application scenarios.

You can find more information on the prices and detailed specifications of different LiDAR types at DFRobot.