Imagine driving to a remote tourist destination last Christmas—somewhere completely unfamiliar, yet you arrived safely and confidently. How was this possible? The most likely answer is that you relied on Google Maps, enhanced by the advanced LiDAR laser technology integrated into your car.
Modern vehicles often feature a 3D color map of the immediate surroundings displayed on the car’s monitor. This real-time mapping system provides drivers with a comprehensive view of the area, significantly improving safety and navigation. But what powers this innovative technology? It’s called LiDAR laser, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging.
Curious about how LiDAR works and what components make up this system? Let’s explore the architecture, working principles, and diverse applications of LiDAR laser technology.
Architecture of LiDAR Laser
A standard LiDAR system consists of four main components:
- Transmitter (Light Source)
- Receiver (Light Detection)
- Signal Detection System
- Data Acquisition and Control System
LiDAR architecture can be configured in two primary ways: biaxial or coaxial.
- Biaxial Configuration: The transmitter and receiver are set on separate axes. This setup helps avoid near-field backscattered radiation, which could otherwise saturate the photodetector.
- Coaxial Configuration: The axis of the LiDAR laser beam aligns with the receiver optics. This allows the receiver to detect the laser beam in the zero-range bins. In coaxial systems, near-field backscattering can be managed by gating the photodetector or using a fast shutter or chopper to block unwanted signals.
Most modern LiDAR lasers are monostatic, utilizing either a biaxial or coaxial setup. The choice between these configurations depends on the required detection range. Coaxial setups are ideal for near-field applications, ensuring complete overlap between the receiver’s field of view and the laser beam. Biaxial configurations are preferred when near-field range is unnecessary, as they help prevent photodetector saturation from intense near-field scattering. Scanning capabilities also influence the selection between biaxial and coaxial designs.
How Does LiDAR Work?
LiDAR technology operates on a straightforward principle: it measures the time it takes for a laser pulse to hit an object and return to the detector. By calculating the transit time and recording the angle, the system accurately maps the position of objects in a 3D environment.
Achieving high accuracy is challenging, especially when tracking fast-moving platforms or monitoring thousands of laser pulses per second. However, LiDAR technology has evolved rapidly. Early commercial systems were large and complex, capable of processing up to 10,000 points per second (10 kHz). Today’s LiDAR systems are compact, lightweight, and deliver exceptional precision, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.
Applications of LiDAR Laser
LiDAR laser technology is revolutionizing multiple industries with its precise surface scanning capabilities. Here are some of the most impactful applications:
Search and Rescue
LiDAR lasers excel at scanning surfaces, making them invaluable in search and rescue operations. These sensors can quickly identify people on various terrains, enabling rescue teams to locate missing individuals efficiently—even at night, since LiDAR does not rely on ambient light.
Mining
In mining, LiDAR lasers are used to measure mineral extraction locations by comparing current surface data with previous scans. This technology offers a faster, safer, and more cost-effective alternative to traditional surveying methods. Mobile mappers and terrestrial laser scanners equipped with LiDAR reduce risk, cost, and time in mining operations.
Transportation Expansion
Urban planners leverage LiDAR technology to design and expand rail stations and mass transit networks. LiDAR-equipped UAVs can scan vast areas, providing detailed data to inform future infrastructure development and optimize transportation systems.
Meteorology
LiDAR lasers play a crucial role in meteorology by scanning the atmosphere to monitor wind velocity and analyze atmospheric changes. This technology enables meteorologists to study cloud particles, track weather patterns, and improve forecasting accuracy.
Renewable Energy
As the world shifts toward sustainable energy, LiDAR lasers are instrumental in optimizing solar and wind power generation. LiDAR helps determine wind direction and identify the best locations for solar panels, maximizing electricity production from renewable sources.
Inphenix is a leading US-based manufacturer specializing in high-quality LiDAR lasers and advanced light sources. Inphenix also offers lasers, driver boards, superluminescent diodes, semiconductor optical amplifiers, and O-band optical amplifiers. Visit their website to discover more about their expertise, products, and innovative solutions.
