LiDAR: Shaping the Future of Interaction and Data Collection

Imagine being able to see through walls, map out entire cities in 3D, and track the movement of objects with precision. This is no longer the stuff of science fiction, thanks to LiDAR technology. This powerful measurement tool uses laser light to detect the presence and distance of physical objects, delivering detailed and high-resolution images in real-time. From mapping and navigation to self-driving cars and beyond, LiDAR is shaping the future of how we interact with our environment.

The LiDAR market is growing at a fast pace. It is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.65% during the forecast period 2021-2027, according to the new report published by Report Ocean. As LiDAR technologies continue to converge and enhance each other, the technology is poised for further growth to meet industry demands.

Our new article aims to provide an overview of LIDAR technology, some of its use cases and benefits.

What is LIDAR Technology?

LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is a cutting-edge measurement technology that harnesses the power of laser light to detect the presence and distance of physical objects. This is accomplished by sending out laser light pulses from a LiDAR sensor and measuring the time it takes for the reflected light to return. The closer the object is to the sensor, the quicker the light reflects back, providing a highly accurate measurement.

LiDAR, compared to RADAR, sets itself apart by its ability to produce detailed and high-resolution images of objects and their surroundings. This superior imaging capability is why LiDAR is widely used across a diverse range of industries. Let's explore how it works and some examples of where LiDAR can be used.

How does it work?

The use of LiDAR technology began in the 1960s with the implementation of LiDAR scanners on aircraft, which used lasers to gather data. However, it wasn't until the 1980s that LiDAR unleashed its full potential, as the data collected could be combined with GPS insights.

LiDAR operates by emitting laser pulses that reflect off objects and return to the scanner. The speed of light is used to determine the distance from the scanner to the object, with LiDAR sensors able to produce 1 million pulses per second. This results in a series of points that can be used to create maps and models.

In brief, LiDAR is a type of laser rangefinder that creates detailed maps by measuring the trajectory of laser beams from a scanner. The collected coordinates generate a comprehensive image of the area being scanned.

Application of LiDAR

Nowadays, LiDAR is widely used in many fields, from its application in meteorology and agriculture to the automotive, traffic management, and public safety industries. However, we will focus on the retail and real estate industry to understand how it is applied and what benefits it can bring.

Retail:

• Enhance the shopping experience with highly-accurate 3D maps of indoor environments;
• Increase sales through improved navigation and product direction;
• Improve inventory management with real-time data on stock levels and restocking insights;
• Enhance loss prevention with the detection of suspicious activity and improved monitoring of high-traffic areas.

Real Estate:

• Obtain precise and detailed insights about buildings and structures with highly-accurate 3D models;
• Enhance design, construction, and maintenance with valuable insights into properties;
• Conduct property assessments with quick and accurate measurements of building dimensions and critical data points;
• Assess property value and make informed decisions about renovations, repairs, or remodels;
• Identify potential structural issues and provide insights into energy efficiency for sustainable building design and construction.

Among many technologies on the market, LiDAR, integrated with machine learning algorithms and computer vision techniques, can help track people's movements and collect data and insights about humans behavior. Its application can be really useful in such industries as retail and real estate.

In Retail:

• Track the flow of customers through a store, providing data on which areas are most visited, how long customers stay in certain sections, and which products are most popular. All this data can then be used to optimize store layouts, improve product placement, and inform promotional strategies.
• Monitor crowd density and flow, helping retailers to manage safety and security.

In Real Estate:

• Track foot traffic in commercial buildings and public spaces, such as shopping centers and airports. This data can help to determine which areas are most popular, how long people spend in certain areas, and which times of day are busiest. They can also inform decisions about lease terms, space allocation, and design, as well as provide valuable insights into consumer behavior that can be leveraged to improve marketing and sales efforts.

What are the advantages of using LiDAR in the retail and real estate industries?

• High accuracy and precision: LiDAR provides high-resolution 3D data that is more accurate and precise than other tracking methods, such as beacons or Wi-Fi routers.
• Non-intrusive: LiDAR is a passive technology that does not require people to carry any tracking devices or interact with the system in any way, making it non-intrusive.
• Real-time data: LiDAR provides real-time data that can be used to inform decisions and respond to changes in the environment quickly.
• Versatility: LiDAR can be used in a variety of settings, from indoor retail environments to outdoor public spaces, making it a versatile solution for tracking people's movements.

In conclusion, LiDAR technology has revolutionized the way we perceive and interact with our environment. From precise mapping and navigation to self-driving cars, this cutting-edge technology harnesses the power of laser light to deliver detailed and high-resolution images in real-time. With its diverse range of applications in different industries, LiDAR is a technology to watch for those who are interested in shaping the future.