A Comprehensive Guide to Purchasing LiDAR Scanners

What is LiDAR?

LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is a remote sensing technology that accurately measures distances to objects by emitting laser pulses and measuring the time it takes for the reflected light to return. LiDAR can generate 3D or 2D images containing spatial and depth information, widely used in fields such as geographic surveying, autonomous driving, robot navigation, environmental monitoring, and industrial automation.

LiDAR technology can dynamically detect and map the environment in real-time, used for object detection, localization, measurement, and tracking. It plays a crucial role in industries such as autonomous vehicles, logistics, warehousing, and aerospace, particularly in industrial environments, where it effectively detects obstacles and prevents collisions, enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and safety.

Real-world Application Examples

• Autonomous Driving: Real-time environmental perception and obstacle detection.

• Logistics and Warehousing: AGV navigation and object recognition.

• Environmental Monitoring: Natural disaster assessment and risk management.

Differences Between Radar and LiDAR

In autonomous driving sensor technology, the core difference between Radar and LiDAR lies in the wavelength of the electromagnetic waves used:

• Radar
: Utilizes millimeter waves (typically between 4-12 mm), with strong penetration capability that enables all-weather object detection.

• LiDAR
: Uses lasers (typically with wavelengths between 900-1500 nm) and accurately locates objects by measuring the time it takes for laser pulses to travel to the object and back.

Technical Comparison

Technology	Radar	LiDAR
Working Principle	Emits and receives millimeter waves, strong penetration	Based on laser technology, locates objects by measuring round-trip time
Detection Accuracy	Lower accuracy, suitable for rough object positioning	High spatial resolution, generates detailed environmental models
Working Distance	Excellent for long-range detection,suitable for high-speed and open environments	Limited working distance, better for mid to short-range applications
Cost Comparison	Low hardware cost, easy integration, simple signal processing	High hardware cost, requires significant data processing

Brief Overview of 2D LiDAR and 3D LiDAR Differences

• Scanning Dimensions: 2D LiDAR scans in a horizontal plane, capturing single-height cross-section data; 3D LiDAR scans from multiple angles, generating three-dimensional point cloud data.

• Application Scenarios: 2D LiDAR is suitable for planar navigation like AGVs and AMRs; 3D LiDAR is used for complex environmental perception such as autonomous driving and advanced robotic operations.

Advantages of 2D LiDAR in Industrial Automation

✅ Cost-effectiveness: 2D LiDAR is low-cost, suitable for efficient and economical solutions.

✅ Simplified Data Processing: Generates significantly less data than 3D LiDAR, requiring less processing power, enabling quick responses, particularly in navigation and obstacle detection.

✅ Area Monitoring and Safety: Effectively monitors work areas in industrial settings, preventing accidents. For example, setting safety boundaries in robotic arm operation areas to trigger stop commands if an object breaches the boundary.

✅ Application Flexibility: Smaller size and simpler structure allow for easy integration into production lines and robotic systems.

✅ Real-time Obstacle Detection: Quickly identifies obstacles around production lines, ensuring efficient operation of equipment.

How to Purchase 2D LiDAR Scanner

Key Factors to Consider When Purchasing

• Main Functions: Determine the application scenarios and functional characteristics of the LiDAR, such as obstacle detection and area monitoring.

• Operating Range: The effective measurement distance of the LiDAR should be selected based on the specific application scenario.

• Aperture Angle: The scanning coverage area; a larger angle provides wider coverage.

• Angular Resolution: Affects measurement accuracy and detail capturing capability; higher resolution allows for more precise object recognition.

• Frequency: Determines the data update rate and real-time responsiveness; higher frequency enables faster processing and feedback.

• Environmental Adaptability: Consider the challenges of the working environment, such as lighting and weather conditions, to ensure the selected product can adapt to these conditions.

• Interface: Ensure the LiDAR's communication interface is compatible with existing systems for easy integration and use.

Brand and Quality Assurance

Global Leading brands

When choosing safety laser scanners, globally recognized brands offer a variety of reliable product lines. As one of the solutions for safety and monitoring needs in industrial applications, DADISICK's 2D LiDAR also features area monitoring capabilities. Here are some well-known brands and their product series:

Autonics: LSC Series - Known for high reliability in safety applications, offering precise detection and area monitoring.

BANNER: SX5 Series - Features robust designs for industrial environments, providing excellent protection and detection capabilities.

Datasensing: Navigation Lidar Series - Combines navigation and safety functions, suitable for automated guided vehicles and advanced robotics.

Datasensing: Safety Laser Scanner Series - Ensures safe operation in dynamic environments, effectively detecting obstacles.

IDEC: SE2L Series - Compact and versatile, ideal for safeguarding areas with high safety requirements.

KEYENCE: SZ-V Series & SZ Series - Offers advanced features for high-precision detection in various applications.

Leuze: RSL 410 - 450P Series & RSL 425, 445, 455P Series - Renowned for their robust performance in complex environments.

OMRON: OS32C Series - Features extensive monitoring capabilities, enhancing safety in industrial operations.

PEPPERL+FUCHS: R2000 Series - Provides reliable performance in challenging conditions, ideal for both safety and navigation.

PILZ: PSENscan Series - Focuses on safety monitoring with flexible configurations for various applications.

Rockwell Automation: SafeZone Safety Laser Scanners Series - Combines safety and automation, ideal for industrial settings.

Alternatives

Reasons for Choosing Replacement Services:

1️⃣ Old Product is Damaged: When existing equipment fails or is damaged, replacement services can quickly provide new solutions to ensure business continuity.

2️⃣ Manufacturer Discontinued Production: If the manufacturer of the original product has stopped production or support, replacement services can help users find compatible new equipment, avoiding operational risks due to lack of support.

3️⃣ Reduced Budget: In cases of limited budgets, replacement services offer a cost-effective option, helping businesses maintain operational efficiency while cutting costs.

4️⃣ Cost-Effective Choice: Replacement services often provide better value for money, enhancing product performance and functionality, allowing businesses to achieve better returns on investment without increasing expenses.

After-sales Service

Choose brands with comprehensive after-sales support to ensure effective maintenance and technical assistance. Regardless of the specific product model or technical parameters you need, DADISICK can offer the most professional recommendations and replacement solutions based on your requirements. Whether you seek higher performance, lower costs, or compliance with specific industry standards, DADISICK can tailor a solution to guarantee you receive the best safety sensor replacement service. We look forward to providing you with quality service!