LiDAR

  • Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) is a remote sensing method that uses laser pulses to measure distances. Based on the measurements, a computer creates a detailed 3D map of the environment.  Learn more about how LiDAR works in general here. 

  • Imagine a drone that detects even a small electric wire without you having to lift a finger — well, it’s finally here. ABZ Innovation has recently released the world's first LiDAR-based obstacle avoidance and terrain-following system on a drone! On 17 October 2024, we had the pleasure of hosting a highly successful LiDAR press trip at Breier Farm in a picturesque environment. The live demos, engaging presentations, and insightful discussions highlighted how our LiDAR system and collaborative technologies can transform agriculture and several other industries. The opportunities with our advanced new technology are truly endless.

  • ABZ Innovation drones equipped with ABZ Sense can scan terrain, structures, and vegetation, providing valuable data for obstacle detection and precise altitude holding and terrain-following.
  • Let’s compare our old LiDAR with LiDAR V2:

    • V1 LiDAR: single-beam

      • Uses one beam to measure the relative height of the drone (relative to the ground)

      • It is not ideal for creating detailed 3D maps

      • The raw data has to be processed by the flight controller (ArduPilot) for measuring the altitude

      • Simple, easy-to-manage data, but low-quality

      • Real-time, live

    • ABZ Sense: laser scanning single-beam (often referred to as “multi-beam”, but this name is more precise)

      • Point clouds are created with the moving beam

      • Time stamps are added

      • Position stamps are added

      • Which transfers data to the flight controller that can be used for altitude measurement

      • Territory mapping, then a map is created

      • SLAM - simultaneous localization and mapping

      • 3D maps are created the following way:

      • Created with an external processing unit

      • High-quality data

      • An RTK Base can make it more accurate, but it’s not necessary: GPS can be enough

Last modified: Tuesday, 11 February 2025, 4:40 AM