Term of the Moment
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Redirected from: laser radar
Definition: LIDAR
(LIght Detection And Ranging) An optical technology that is used to sense the shape, motion and makeup of objects in the environment. LIDAR is used in a wide variety of disciplines, including airborne mapping, measuring atmospheric conditions and self-driving cars. LIDAR works by pulsing laser signals using all light ranges (ultraviolet, visible, infrared) and amplifying the light that is scattered back through an optical telescope and photomultiplier tube. A 3D map is generated of the surroundings. Sometimes called "laser radar," LIDAR uses light waves and not "radio" waves. See self-driving car.
LIDAR vs. Radar
In today's cars with advanced safety systems, radar may be used to determine the distance to the next vehicle on the road, and LIDAR can also be used for this purpose. However, because LIDAR emits nanometer waves rather than radar's millimeter waves, LIDAR provides greater granularity. The computer can analyze the returning LIDAR signals and differentiate more accurately between objects such as a pedestrian, bicycle or deer, which allows a vehicle's safety and self-driving electronics to make more accurate decisions. See radar.
LIDAR in the iPhone
For improved photos in 2020, the iPhone 12 Pro models added LIDAR to better sense the depth of the image. The LIDAR takes sharper photos, enhances augmented reality (AR) and enables more creativity in game development. The addition of LIDAR also lets users take room measurements with their phone. Samsung added LIDAR in its Galaxy line for a while but dropped it in 2022, claiming it was not used sufficiently to warrant its manufacturing cost.
LIDAR in a Self-Driving Car
Temi Moves on Its Own
LIDAR vs. Radar
In today's cars with advanced safety systems, radar may be used to determine the distance to the next vehicle on the road, and LIDAR can also be used for this purpose. However, because LIDAR emits nanometer waves rather than radar's millimeter waves, LIDAR provides greater granularity. The computer can analyze the returning LIDAR signals and differentiate more accurately between objects such as a pedestrian, bicycle or deer, which allows a vehicle's safety and self-driving electronics to make more accurate decisions. See radar.
LIDAR in the iPhone
For improved photos in 2020, the iPhone 12 Pro models added LIDAR to better sense the depth of the image. The LIDAR takes sharper photos, enhances augmented reality (AR) and enables more creativity in game development. The addition of LIDAR also lets users take room measurements with their phone. Samsung added LIDAR in its Galaxy line for a while but dropped it in 2022, claiming it was not used sufficiently to warrant its manufacturing cost.
LIDAR can be used to sense objects in front, back and on the sides of a vehicle. (Image courtesy of Phantom Intelligence.)
The LIDAR module (red arrow) on the Temi personal robot is used to detect objects as it moves around the house. (Image courtesy of Temi.)