What is LiDAR?

 

LiDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging. Though, some people call it laser scanning, or 3D scanning.

It’s a remote sensing device that uses pulsating light to measure distances and other data poins to the Earth. When the light pulses, it bounces off objects and sends that information back to the sensor. The sensor records the time and distance for each pulse of light, happening a millions times per second.

The data collected by this sensor is then sent to a computer which produces three-dimensional images.

Here’s what the image looks like (that’s a bridge):

TrueView+Lidar+Image.jpg
 

The instrument itself usually consists of a durable case, a laser, a scanner, and a specialized GPS receiver. They are commonly attached to a drone (unmanned aircraft) airplane, or helicopter, but are used in many other ways.

This is what one looks like (@ Yellow Scan):

YellowScan+Lidar.jpg
 

The technology is becoming more and more popular as it allows businesses to save time and money on collecting key data. There are already a lot of use cases for LiDAR sensors and the industry is growing fast. Here are some industries that are using them today:

  • Forestry

  • Engineering

  • Construction

  • Mining

  • Agriculture

  • Energy

And they are not cheap. Today (April 2020), the average LiDAR sensor costs around $150,000. Some are under $100,000, but we are already seeing units above $400,000.

This is why you need to get the right insurance policy and insurance broker.

Give us a call and let’s chat about your options.

Call today: 213.792.2846

 
Tyler Crawfordlidar, laser detection, drone, payload, laser payload, drone laserComment