LiDAR: A Sensory Technology Brimming with Opportunities
When we hear “LiDAR,” self-driving cars are usually the first thing that comes to mind. And it’s no wonder because this sensor is the core technological element of autonomous driving and futuristic cars. However, LiDAR’s applications extend far beyond automotive and have enormous potential across most industries, including environmental monitoring, agriculture, archeology, mapping, healthcare, and robotics.
In a nutshell, LiDAR has the potential to change the way we perceive the world and how we interact with it. But first, what exactly is LiDAR, and how does it work?
LiDAR – Harbingering the new age of automation
LiDAR, an abbreviation of Light Detection And Ranging, is a remote sensing technology that measures the distance between objects by hitting the target with a laser and analyzing the reflected light. The current maximum range of LiDAR is approximately 300 meters. LiDAR is considered to be the basic building block in an array of technologies harbingering the new age of automation. Its application ranges from automotive to archeology to climate change mitigation to city planning and security.
LiDAR opens doors to future opportunities
At 10Pearls, we stay ahead of emerging technologies. Fully aware of LiDAR’s potential, we are increasingly incorporating it in our applications – yet the possibilities are unlimited, and a lot is still to be explored. Our cognitive and interactive technology services portfolio includes AR/VR/MR, IoT, Chatbots, and AI/ML, to name a few, and now we are ready to take the LiDAR market by storm.
Here are some ways 10Pearls can integrate LiDAR technology for future opportunities:
- 3D mapping
- AR experience of products
- Weather forecasting and trend prediction
- AR E-commerce
- Spatial models for architecture and archeology
Let’s discuss each of these possibilities a bit further.
Integrating LiDAR technology for future opportunities
3D mapping: have the world at your fingertips
Why leave the comfort of your bed and go to a physical location when you can recreate it using LiDAR right from your room?
AR systems use LiDAR to process and produce high-quality 3D mapping by stacking data on a high-resolution map. This AR experience is created by using point clouds for collecting and refining topographic data. LiDAR beams are directed at objects to collect their 3D measurements, such as position and attitude, and then the 3D mapping is rendered. 3D mapping can provide an incredible virtual experience to your potential customers, and its applications range from archeology to civil engineering to mining and beyond.
Augmented reality experience of products
In a post-COVID, “no-touch” world, consumers are looking for ways to try on products without actually having to touch them. Because conventional testing is no longer acceptable, this experience has also become virtual. With LiDAR, you can showcase your product to customers and give them a feel for how the product will look on them. The LiDAR Scanner enables rapid plane detection, allowing for the instant placement of AR objects in the real world without scanning. With this advanced functionality, we can create improved AR shopping apps, home design tools, and better AR games.
Weather forecasting and trend prediction to help with agricultural needs
The beauty of LiDAR lies in its accuracy of minute details. Thus it is capturing the attention of various professionals, especially scientists and geologists. LiDAR can be an efficient research assistant as it can help predict trends and identify patterns in deforestation and agriculture. One notable example is NASA’s Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI), a LiDAR-based technology that provides a unique 3D view of the Earth and its topography. LiDAR also helps predict the effects of greenhouse emissions and how to tackle them. With possibilities as broad as these, this emerging technology can easily assist in your research as well.
AR E-commerce to bring the ultimate shopping experience
What good is technology if it doesn’t help you make good decisions? E-commerce players know this rings true for consumers and are looking for ways augmented reality can enhance the customer experience and buyer journey. With true-to-scale models, buyers can see if the furniture you sell will look good in their home. If you are an airline service, you can make the onsite experience better by guiding travelers through the airport. If you are a children’s storybook writer, you can have your characters come to life right on your young audience’s study table. The possibilities are truly endless!
Spatial models for architecture & archeology
LiDAR has been instrumental in surveying topography for urban planning and construction, as well as reconstruction of dilapidated ancient ruins. Archeologists, construction workers, and architects can use LiDAR’s ability to survey promptly and accurately and create spatial models. These virtual models not only reduce costs and manpower but also offer unprecedented insights into a building or structure. If your work lies in the scope of architecture or archeology, LiDAR is again your greatest asset.
These are just a few of LiDAR’s applications and use cases. At 10Pearls, we understand that every business is unique, has different business challenges, and can benefit from LiDAR in its own unique, nuanced way.
Schedule a consultation with our team to explore the cutting-edge potential of LiDAR for your business and how it can help you innovate and lead in your market.
