Lidar – What is it, Applications and Properties of Laser Scanners

What is lidar?

Lidar is a measurement system based on the analysis of reflected laser light. The lidar scanner emits light pulses that, after being reflected from the surface, return to the sensor. Based on the time it takes for the light to return, the system calculates the exact distance between the scanner and the object. In the case of lidar scanners consisting of multiple laser beams, detailed three-dimensional maps can be created.

Lidar technology differs from other scanning methods, such as radar (using radio waves), due to its much higher resolution. The laser allows for more accurate mapping of objects, which makes lidar great where precision is required.

Applications of lidar

Thanks to its precision and ability to create accurate 3D models, lidar laser scanners are used in various fields:

1. Automotive: In autonomous vehicles, lidar helps create detailed maps of the surroundings, detecting obstacles and allowing vehicles to plan safe routes.

2. Geodesy and cartography: Lidar is commonly used for mapping areas, which is especially useful in topographic studies and analysis of the structure of areas in terms of infrastructure.

3. Archaeology: Lidar scanning allows archaeologists to discover hidden structures, such as ancient settlements, that are located below the surface of the earth, without the need for excavation.

4. Environmental protection: In ecology, lidar allows for mapping forests and monitoring changes in the surface of land, which is helpful in analyzing phenomena such as deforestation, floods or climate change.

5. Precision agriculture: Lidar technology enables monitoring of crop health and soil structure, which helps farmers optimize irrigation and fertilization.

Lidar properties

Lidar technology has several key features that distinguish it from other scanning and measurement methods:

• High resolution: Laser allows for precise mapping of even small details of the surroundings, which is important in situations where high precision is required.

• Measurement speed: Lidar scanners can scan large areas in a short time, making the technology useful in dynamic environments.

• Scalability: Lidar can be installed on vehicles, drones or satellites, allowing the technology to be tailored to specific project requirements.

• Operation in difficult conditions: Lidar works well even in low light conditions because it emits its own light. In some cases, it can also operate in foggy conditions or at night.

• Possibility of real-time data analysis: Modern algorithms enable real-time processing of lidar data, which is useful in autonomous navigation systems.

Summary

Lidar is a versatile technology that is gaining increasing recognition in various industries due to its precision and wide application. From supporting autonomous driving to field research, lidar provides the ability to map reality in detail, allowing for more informed decisions based on spatial data.