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SLAM Lidar

Scanning with Lidar SLAM Technology

SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) using LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is a technology utilized in robotics, autonomous vehicles, and other applications requiring accurate localization and mapping in real-time.

Simply put, the system utilizes a lidar laser scanner and a computer algorithm. This means that the lidar unit could be carried through a structure on foot, without using GNSS reference points, and a point cloud be created reflecting the environment.  Here’s a breakdown of how it works and its accuracy claims.

  1. How it Works:
  • Localization: LiDAR sensors emit laser beams and measure the time it takes for them to bounce off surrounding objects and return to the sensor. By calculating the time of flight and angles of the returned beams, the sensor can determine distances and angles to objects around it.
  • Mapping: As the LiDAR-equipped device moves through its environment, it continuously collects distance measurements from different angles. These measurements are then processed to construct a detailed map of the surrounding environment, including the positions of obstacles, landmarks, and other features.
  • Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM): SLAM algorithms use the collected sensor data to simultaneously estimate the device’s current position (localization) and update the map of the environment (mapping) in real-time. This involves integrating new sensor data with previous measurements while accounting for uncertainties and errors.
  1. Accuracy Claims:
  • LiDAR sensors are known for their high accuracy in measuring distances to objects, typically with multi centimeter-level precision.
  • SLAM algorithms aim to maintain accurate localization and mapping environments with obstacles, or changes in lighting conditions.
  • Accuracy claims may vary depending on factors such as sensor specifications, project conditions, and the specific SLAM algorithm used.

Lastly, SLAM LiDAR technology combines the capabilities of LiDAR sensors with sophisticated algorithms to achieve multi cm accurate real-time localization and mapping.  While this level of accuracy is not to the accuracy of terrestrial scanners (1-3mm), it is believed that in time, this accuracy may come.