What is LiDAR | Quanergy Solutions, Inc. | LiDAR Sensors and Smart Perception Solutions

What is LiDAR?

LiDAR, which stands for Light Detection and Ranging, is a time-of-flight sensing technology that uses electromagnetic radiation to measure distances. Specifically, it pulses low-power, eye-safe lasers in the near-infrared spectrum and measures the time it takes for the laser to complete a round trip between the sensor and a target. The wavelength of the laser, typically around 905 to 1550 nanometers, plays a crucial role in both the safety and precision of the measurements. This carefully selected wavelength ensures that the laser remains eye-safe while providing high accuracy in detecting and tracking objects.

When these laser pulses hit an object, they reflect back to the LiDAR sensor. By calculating the time it takes for each pulse to return, the sensor determines the distance to the object. The resulting aggregate data forms a 3D point cloud image, which provides both spatial location and depth information. This allows LiDAR systems to identify, classify, and track moving objects with a high degree of precision, making it a vital tool in various applications, from industrial robots to physical security.

The Basics of Quanergy LiDAR Technology Solutions

**LiDAR technology operates on the fundamental principles of electromagnetism, using light to measure distances with incredible precision. At the heart of this technology is the concept of “time of flight,” which refers to the time it takes for light to travel from the LiDAR sensor, hit an object, and return to the sensor. This time measurement is crucial because LiDAR systems calculate distance based on the speed of light, a constant at approximately 299,792 kilometers per second (186,282 miles per second).

The emitted light in LiDAR systems falls within the electromagnetic spectrum, specifically in the near-infrared region. By pulsing these light waves, LiDAR technology can capture detailed information about the environment. The speed of light allows the system to perform these measurements rapidly and accurately, enabling the creation of a continuous, real-time 3D point cloud of the scanned area.

In addition to the principles of electromagnetism, LiDAR also relies on electrodynamics—the study of electric charges in motion. When LiDAR sensors emit light, they rely on these electrodynamic principles to detect the energy reflected back from objects. The sensor’s ability to measure these reflections and calculate distances is what makes LiDAR so effective in detecting and continuously tracking objects with a meshed network capability of stitching multiple sensors together in various environments.

Through this combination of electromagnetic radiation, the speed of light, and electrodynamics, Quanergy’s LiDAR technology provides robust, real-time spatial awareness, making it an essential tool for a wide range of applications.

What is a Point Cloud?

Point clouds are large data sets composed of millions of 3D points, each representing a precise location in space. These points are generated from LiDAR scans of the environment, capturing detailed information about moving objects such as vehicles and humans, as well as stationary objects like buildings, trees, and other permanent structures. The raw data from these point clouds can then be processed by software systems to create detailed 3D imagery of the scanned area.

Creating highly accurate security models and simulations in smart spaces

In the realm of 3D computer vision, point clouds generated by LiDAR are invaluable for creating highly accurate security models and simulations in smart spaces. These models provide a virtual representation of the environment, allowing for detailed planning, analysis, and simulation of security scenarios. By converting point clouds into 3Ddigital images , security systems can visualize the area in real-time, enabling better decision-making and more effective monitoring.

Advanced object detection within security systems

Point clouds also play a crucial role in advanced object detection within security systems. By analyzing the 3D data points, these systems can identify and classify potential threats in real-time, distinguishing between different types of objects, such as vehicles, humans, and other entities. This capability is essential for maintaining security in dynamic environments, where quick and accurate identification of potential threats is critical.

Contribution to high-resolution imaging

Furthermore, point clouds contribute to high-resolution imaging, offering a detailed and accurate view of the environment being monitored. This imaging capability is particularly valuable in security and smart spaces, where precision and clarity are paramount for effective monitoring and analysis. By utilizing point clouds, LiDAR-based systems can create comprehensive, high-definition images that provide a clear understanding of the security environment, aiding in the detection, analysis, and response to potential threats.

In summary, point clouds are a foundational element of LiDAR technology, enabling detailed 3D computer vision, advanced object detection, and high-resolution imaging, all of which are essential for enhancing security and monitoring in smart spaces.

What is the Field of View?

Field of view (FoV) is defined as the angle, measured in degrees, that a sensor can cover. For LiDAR sensors, this is typically expressed in both horizontal and vertical terms, indicating the extent of the area that the sensor can scan and monitor. In the context of 3D scanning, a wide field of view is crucial for capturing a comprehensive image of the environment. This is especially important in security and smart spaces, where LiDAR’s ability to perform continuous 3D scanning allows for thorough surveillance and 3D object tracking . A broader field of view ensures that no area is left unmonitored, significantly enhancing the effectiveness of security systems. Optics play a vital role in optimizing the field of view for LiDAR sensors. High-quality optical devices are integrated into LiDAR systems to maximize the sensor's ability to detect and monitor objects across large areas. These optics ensure that the LiDAR sensor can cover expansive spaces, detect intrusions, and monitor activity in smart spaces with high precision. By fine-tuning the field of view through advanced optics, LiDAR systems can provide the necessary coverage and detail required for effective monitoring and surveillance in diverse applications. Whether it’s for security purposes or managing smart environments, the field of view in LiDAR technology is key to delivering accurate, reliable, and comprehensive 3D scanning capabilities.

LiDAR Reflectivity

LiDAR operates by detecting and measuring the return of light to the sensor’s receiver. The effectiveness of this process depends significantly on the reflectivity of the target. Some surfaces reflect light better than others, making them easier to reliably detect and measure at the sensor’s maximum range. For instance, a white surface returns a greater amount of light compared to a black surface, which absorbs more light. This difference in reflectivity means that a white target can be detected and measured more accurately at longer distances than a darker target.

Mirror-like targets pose additional challenges because they reflect light in a concentrated beam rather than dispersing it in multiple directions, as diffuse surfaces do. This concentrated reflection might not return directly to the LiDAR sensor’s receiver, making mirror-like objects more difficult to detect and measure accurately.
Retro-reflective targets, such as road signs and license plates, return a high percentage of light directly back to the LiDAR sensor. These targets are ideal for LiDAR detection, as they provide strong, reliable returns, even at longer distances. However, the real-world performance and maximum effective range of a LiDAR sensor can vary depending on the surface reflectivity of the target being scanned.

Environmental Factors: Electromagnetic Absorption by Water

Environmental conditions also play a crucial role in LiDAR performance, particularly in outdoor security environments. Water, for example, can absorb certain wavelengths of light, affecting how LiDAR operates in rainy or humid conditions. When LiDAR sensors emit light, some of the energy can be absorbed by water droplets in the air, reducing the amount of light that returns to the sensor. This electromagnetic absorption by water can limit the effective range of LiDAR in outdoor applications, especially in heavy rain or fog. However, modern LiDAR systems are designed to compensate for these conditions, ensuring that they can still provide reliable data even in challenging weather.

Lighting Conditions

Lighting conditions, both indoor and outdoor, also impact LiDAR’s ability to detect and monitor security threats. In brightly lit environments, LiDAR can continue to perform effectively because it operates independently of visible light, relying instead on infrared wavelengths. However, extremely bright sunlight can introduce noise, making it more challenging to detect low-reflectivity targets. Conversely, in low-light or nighttime conditions, LiDAR maintains high accuracy since it does not rely on ambient light to function. This makes it a powerful tool for 24/7 security monitoring in both indoor and outdoor smart spaces.

Understanding these factors—reflectivity, environmental conditions, and lighting—is essential for optimizing LiDAR performance in security and smart space applications. The Quanergy sales team is available to help you select the right LiDAR solution for your specific needs, ensuring reliable and accurate performance in any environment.

LiDAR Sensors

Quanergy provides high-performance 3D LiDAR sensors and smart perception software that enhance safety, efficiency, and performance while reducing costs across a wide range of markets and applications.

Our patented portfolio of Q-Track LiDAR sensors feature high resolution and a 360-degree field of view, generating rich 3D point clouds in real-time at long range. These cost-effective, high-definition LiDAR sensors are rugged and reliable, making them ideal for challenging real-world applications that require the widest field of view and the longest range.

Quanergy Types of LiDAR

Time of Flight (ToF) LiDAR:

Time of Flight is the fundamental principle behind most LiDAR systems, including our Q-Track sensors. ToF LiDAR measures the time it takes for a laser pulse to travel to an object and back, calculating distances with high precision. This technology is particularly effective in real-time detection and tracking of objects, making it essential for security and smart space applications where quick and accurate responses are critical.

Indirect Time of Flight (iToF) LiDAR:

Unlike direct ToF, which directly measures the travel time of light pulses, iToF systems measure the phase shift between the emitted and reflected light waveforms. This phase shift is indirectly related to the time-of-flight, hence the name "indirect." The phase difference is then used to calculate the distance to the object.

Each type of LiDAR technology offers unique benefits, tailored to different applications.. Whether it’s the high accuracy effective for long-range measurements of ToF for security and smart spaces applications, or the fine depth resolution at closer ranges for mobile robots, Quanergy’s LiDAR solutions deliver the accuracy and reliability needed to meet the most demanding requirements.

How is LiDAR different from radar and camera-based systems?

LiDAR, radar, and camera-based systems are all used to detect and monitor moving objects, but they operate on different principles and offer varying levels of accuracy and functionality, particularly in security and smart space applications.

LiDAR vs. Radar:

Radar uses radio waves to determine the velocity, range, and angle of moving objects. While effective, radar's reliance on radio waves limits its resolution and precision, especially in complex environments. LiDAR, on the other hand, uses laser light to create a detailed, real-time 3D image of its surroundings. This allows LiDAR to detect and classify objects with superior accuracy and precision, providing a comprehensive view that is essential for effective monitoring and threat detection in security systems. Unlike radar, LiDAR excels in detecting intrusions or unauthorized access in challenging areas, such as sites close to residential areas with people/vehicle traffic, sites with metallic structures, constrained areas such as mantraps/lobbies, and sites with complex geometries creating blind spots.

LiDAR vs. Cameras:

Cameras capture 2D images using millions of pixels, but they have limitations when it comes to accurately gauging depth and distance. Moreover, 2D cameras have limited range and FOV and their images cannot create an integrated 3D image, therefore requiring hundreds if not thousands of cameras to reduce the number of blinds spots. Cameras also pose privacy risks since they can capture Personally Identifiable Information (PII). LiDAR, however, offers significant advantages over camera-based systems in security applications. It generates 3D images that not only map the environment but also precisely measure distances and movement, all without capturing PII. This reduces the risk of false alarms and enhances the reliability of security systems. Additionally, cameras struggle in low-light conditions and adverse weather, whereas LiDAR maintains high accuracy in darkness, rain, snow, and other challenging conditions.

Accuracy and Precision:

When it comes to detecting security threats and monitoring smart spaces, LiDAR outperforms both radar and cameras in terms of accuracy and precision. Its ability to provide detailed 3D point clouds and real-time tracking of objects allows for a level of situational awareness that is unmatched by other technologies. This precision is crucial for identifying and responding to threats quickly and effectively, ensuring that security systems are both reliable and robust.

In summary, while radar and camera-based systems have their uses, LiDAR offers superior accuracy, precision, and versatility in security and smart space applications, making it the preferred choice for modern, high-performance monitoring solutions.

Sensing Technologies Comparison

	LiDAR	Radar	Video
Sensing Dimensions	3D	1D	2D
Range
Field of View
Object Detection – Shape / Orientation
Object Detection – Static / Lateral Motion
Resolution with Range
Range Accuracy
Rain, Snow, Smog, Dust, Sand Storm
Fog
Ambient Light – Pitch Darkness / Bright Sunlight
Read Sign / Color
Intensity / Reflectivity

Comparisons table are subject to change without notice

What makes LiDAR an essential technology?

LiDAR remains the only sensor technology that offers the highest range of accuracy and the finest angular resolution, making it indispensable for various applications, particularly in security, smart spaces, and industrial automation. Its unique capabilities set it apart from other technologies like radar and cameras, ensuring its position as a critical tool in modern technology ecosystems.

Imaging

When it comes to imaging capabilities, LiDAR outperforms both radar and cameras in terms of resolution and accuracy. While radar is effective at detecting objects over long distances, it lacks the fine resolution necessary for detailed imaging. Cameras, although capable of capturing high-resolution images, are limited to 2D views and are highly dependent on lighting conditions. In contrast, LiDAR provides precise 3D imaging that captures both the spatial location and depth of objects in real-time, even in low-light or adverse weather conditions. This superior imaging capability makes LiDAR ideal for detailed surveillance and environmental monitoring in security systems and smart spaces, where understanding the exact position and movement of objects is crucial.

Analytics

The rich 3D data generated by LiDAR significantly enhances analytics in security and smart space management. Unlike radar or camera data, which can be limited by resolution or environmental conditions, LiDAR offers comprehensive and highly accurate data that can be used to derive actionable insights. This data enables advanced analytics, such as precise object detection, classification, and tracking, leading to better decision-making processes. For instance, in a security application, LiDAR’s data allows for the differentiation between humans and vehicles, reduces false alarms, and enables more effective threat assessment and response strategies. In smart spaces, LiDAR’s detailed environmental data supports efficient traffic management, infrastructure planning, and resource optimization.

Real-Time Computing

One of LiDAR’s standout features is its ability to support real-time monitoring and rapid response in security applications. LiDAR sensors continuously scan the environment, providing immediate feedback on any changes or potential threats. This real-time computing capability ensures that security systems can detect and mitigate potential risks as they occur, rather than relying on delayed or post-event analysis. In contrast, camera-based systems may struggle with real-time processing due to the sheer volume of data and potential lighting issues, and radar, while fast, often lacks the necessary resolution for immediate and precise threat identification.

Environmental Performance

LiDAR also excels in challenging environmental conditions where other technologies may falter. For instance, radar can struggle with clutter and may not distinguish between objects in complex environments, while cameras are heavily impacted by low-light, fog, rain, or snow. LiDAR, however, maintains high accuracy and reliability across a wide range of environmental conditions. Its ability to penetrate fog, rain, and even operate in total darkness makes it a reliable choice for continuous monitoring and security in diverse climates and settings.

In conclusion, LiDAR’s unmatched imaging capabilities, enhanced analytics, real-time computing, and robust environmental performance make it an essential technology for security and smart space applications. Its ability to deliver accurate, reliable, and real-time data ensures that it remains the preferred choice for industries that demand the highest levels of precision and safety.

What industries use LiDAR?

LiDAR technology is widely utilized across a diverse range of industries, each benefiting from its precision, accuracy, and real-time data capabilities. Some of the key industries where LiDAR is making a significant impact include security, smart cities, smart spaces,, and autonomous guided vehicles and mobile robots.

Safety

In the realm of security and smart spaces, LiDAR plays a critical role in enhancing safety. By providing accurate, real-time 3D imaging, LiDAR allows for continuous monitoring of environments, helping to detect and respond to potential threats quickly. In industrial settings, LiDAR ensures worker safety by monitoring hazardous areas and automating safety protocols, reducing the risk of accidents.

Automation

LiDAR is at the forefront of automating security processes in various industries. In smart spaces, LiDAR systems can automate the monitoring of large areas, detecting unauthorized access, and triggering alerts without the need for human intervention. This automation not only enhances efficiency but also improves response times, ensuring that security threats are addressed promptly. In industrial automation, LiDAR is used to guide robots and machinery with high precision, enabling seamless and efficient operations.

Traffic Management

LiDAR is also crucial in managing both foot and vehicle traffic within smart cities and spaces. By accurately detecting and continuously tracking the movement of people and vehicles, LiDAR helps maintain order and maximize throughput in busy environments. It can monitor pedestrian flow in crowded areas, optimize traffic light timings, and even detect traffic violations, all contributing to a safer and more organized public space.

These applications highlight the versatility of LiDAR technology, making it indispensable in industries focused on safety, automation, and traffic management. Whether it’s for improving security, enhancing operational efficiency, or ensuring the safety of individuals, LiDAR continues to be a driving force in modern technological solutions across a wide range of sectors.

LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging)

Eye-safe near infrared light, with high resolution output and low consumption power – pioneering 3D laser sensors by Quanergy