Have you ever heard of LiDAR SLAM or SLAM LiDAR? It might sound like a strange combination of words, but it's a crucial technology for robots, autonomous vehicles, and even some virtual reality applications.
In the world of surveying, accuracy and efficiency are two critical factors that determine the success of any project. Surveyors have been using various technologies over the years to improve accuracy and efficiency. One of the most revolutionary technologies to emerge in recent times is LiDAR-BASED SLAM.
SLAM stands for Simultaneous Localization and Mapping, while LiDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging. LiDAR-BASED SLAM is a technology that uses laser beams to generate highly accurate 3D maps of the surroundings, while simultaneously locating the position of the sensor. This technology is highly effective in environments where GPS signals are weak or non-existent, such as indoor spaces or areas with dense vegetation.
LiDAR-BASED SLAM is widely used in the automotive and robotics industries for autonomous navigation. Still, it is also increasingly being adopted by surveyors due to its accuracy, speed, and versatility. LiDAR-BASED SLAM sensors can be mounted on drones, backpacks, or vehicles, making them highly portable and flexible.
In the surveying industry, LiDAR-BASED SLAM has several benefits over traditional technologies such as Total Station or GPS. Traditional surveying methods require line-of-sight to the target and, depending on the equipment used, may need several set-ups to cover a specific area. On the other hand, LiDAR-BASED SLAM can capture millions of points in a matter of minutes, providing a highly detailed 3D map of the area.
LiDAR-BASED SLAM is particularly useful for mid-level accuracy requirements, where traditional surveying methods may be time-consuming and labour intensive. For example, LiDAR-BASED SLAM can be used for mapping and monitoring construction sites, creating accurate floor plans of buildings, or surveying large areas of land for urban planning purposes. The technology's speed and accuracy make it possible to collect data quickly and efficiently, saving time and reducing the need for manual labour.
LiDAR-BASED SLAM technology is continually evolving, with new advancements being made regularly. One of the most exciting recent developments in the SLAM industry is the Leica BLK2GO. Where other SLAM-only algorithms fail with increasing drift and alignment errors, Leica succeeds. The innovations in technology combined with new algorithms released by Leica, take the BLK2GO past the common weaknesses using the GrandSLAM solution. The GrandSLAM solution utilises the high-speed dual axis LiDAR, multi-camera vision system, and an inertial measurement unit. The combination of these technologies allows surveyors to capture highly accurate 3D data quickly and easily, even in challenging environments. The GrandSLAM algorithm is ideal for surveyors who require higher accuracy and efficiencies in their work, such as those in the construction or urban planning industries.
With technology continually evolving and improving, it's exciting to see how it will continue to transform the reality capture industry in the future. As more advancements are made, we can expect to see even more efficient and accurate surveying techniques emerge, making it easier than ever for surveyors to gather the data they need to complete projects successfully.
