LiDAR technology has become the standard approach by scientists and researchers to evaluate the natural as well as man-made ambiance with flexibility and sheer precision. The application of 4d lidar is wide and is utilized in several fields like military, automobile, navigation, astronomy, robotics, geology, and so on. Scientists are using LiDAR technology to acquire accurate shoreline maps, creating digital elevation models for geology information, and several other emergency response functioning.
What is LiDAR all about?
It is a remote detection procedure that functions similar to a radar. Unlike radio waves, LiDAR emits infrared light and measures the distance and time taken to hit and return nearby objects. LiDAR sensor calculates the distance to every object accurately based on the speed of light between the output laser pulse and the reflected light pulse.
In short, the LiDAR sensor is capable of measuring millions of similar accurate distance points every second. This results in the creation of a 3D matrix of the environment. Furthermore, the technology also allows acquiring information on the behavior, position, and shape of the object from the intensive mapping of the environment.
Applications of LiDAR technology
Some of the popular applications of 4d lidar technology are mentioned below.
- Transportation
Thanks to LiDAR technology, one can navigate safely on various modes of road transportation. The technology delivers high-quality images of road contour, detection of lanes, localization, and other aspects to make driving safer and more efficient.
- Defense/Military
LiDAR helps to gather high-resolution image data and information on enemy tanks, and targets during wars. In recent years, LiDAR technology is playing a vital role in the military and defense sectors around the world.
- Agriculture/farming
One of the highlighting features of LiDAR technology is the creation of high-quality digital elevation maps. This is key in the development of soil science and geology, which proves to be beneficial for agricultural farming.
- Airplanes
Another application of LiDAR technology is identified in the aviation industry. The laser is attached to the airplane which helps in creating a 3D cloud model of the entire landscape during the flight. This is particularly helpful for pilots navigating through safe routes.
- Astronomy
4D LiDAR technology is a common system that is positioned in observatories around the world. the technology aids in determining the precise positioning of the moon.
- Robotics
LiDAR technology in the robotics industry is used primarily for the classification of objects and observing the environment minutely.
Pros of LiDAR technology
The below mentioned are some of the key benefits of LiDAR technology highlighted briefly.
- The technology can easily convert the data accumulated into 3D maps, thereby helping to interpret the 3D mapping environment precisely.
- LiDAR can generate 100% accurate measurements of huge amounts instantly.
- LiDAR sensors don’t get affected by environmental light changes, thereby can function precisely in low or any light conditions.
- The distance measurements using LiDAR data don’t need any interpretation, thereby eliminating processing time, and thus faster performance.
Conclusion
4d lidar technology renders precise, and exact measurements of computer-friendly data and information. This is one of the reasons which lead to the popularity and wide usage of LiDAR technology in several applications including automation, aviation, astronomy, robotics, military, etc.