Environmental and Target-Related Factors

The environment in which a LiDAR operates and the nature of the objects it detects play a significant role in its measurement precision.

1. Target Reflectivity

Reflectivity is a measure of how much light a surface reflects at the sensor's wavelength. A target with high reflectivity, like a license plate, will return a strong signal, enabling accurate detection at long distances. Conversely, a target with low reflectivity, such as a black tire or dark clothing (often around 10% reflectivity), returns a much weaker signal. This weaker signal is more challenging for the sensor to distinguish from background noise, which can impact the maximum effective detection range and accuracy.

2. Atmospheric Conditions

Adverse weather conditions like heavy rain, dense fog, snow, and dust can affect LiDAR performance. The water droplets or particles suspended in the air can scatter, absorb, or reflect the laser pulses, a phenomenon known as atmospheric attenuation. This weakens the signal that reaches the target and returns to the sensor, potentially reducing the effective range and precision of measurements. High-end LiDAR systems are engineered with advanced algorithms and hardware to mitigate these effects.

3. Ambient Light

High-intensity ambient light, especially direct sunlight, can introduce significant noise into the sensor's detector. This can overwhelm the faint return signal from the laser pulse, making it difficult to achieve an accurate measurement. Advanced LiDAR systems combat this with narrow optical band-pass filters and sophisticated signal processing algorithms to isolate the true signal from environmental noise.

Intrinsic Sensor and System Factors

Beyond external conditions, the design of the LiDAR itself is a primary determinant of its accuracy.

1. Angular Resolution

Angular resolution defines the smallest angle between two adjacent laser points, both horizontally and vertically. A higher resolution (a smaller angle) means the LiDAR can place more points on a distant object, creating a denser point cloud. This is critical for accurately detecting the shape and size of small or distant objects and is a key factor in overall system accuracy.

2. Signal Processing Algorithms

The software and firmware within the LiDAR module are crucial for interpreting the raw data. Advanced algorithms are used to filter out noise, correct for variables like temperature, and accurately calculate the time-of-flight for each laser pulse. The sophistication of these algorithms directly impacts the final accuracy and reliability of the output data.

Introducing the Benewake AD2-S-X3: Precision Engineered for Reliability

The Benewake AD2-S-X3 is a high-performance 3D LiDAR designed to deliver superior accuracy and reliability in demanding automotive and industrial environments. It addresses the core factors affecting detection accuracy through advanced hardware and software-based definable specifications. With a high angular resolution and the ability to define a high-density Region of Interest (ROI), it excels at detecting low-reflectivity targets at long distances.

Key Specifications:

· Detection Range: 200m @10% reflectivity

· Field of View (FOV): 120° (H) x ~51.2° (V)

· Angular Resolution: Up to 0.1° × 0.1° in ROI

· Frame Rate: 10 Hz

· Equivalent Lines: Up to 256 lines

· Reliability: Automotive-grade, IP67/IP69K rated

Engineered to meet stringent automotive standards for environmental resilience (temperature shock, salt spray) and functional safety (ASIL-B), the AD2-S-X3 3D LiDAR sensor ensures consistent performance. Its compliance with ISO 21434 for cybersecurity makes it a secure choice for connected autonomous systems.

Benewake is a global LiDAR technology company with hundreds of patents, serving clients in over 90 countries. We provide innovative LiDAR solutions that empower leading enterprises to build more intelligent and secure automated systems. Contact us to learn how the AD2-S-X3 can deliver the detection accuracy your project demands.