Drones were once used as toys for hobbyists and tools for niche applications. However, they have undergone a remarkable transformation in recent times, which has become a common sight across various industries. For instance, these devices are extensively used for delivery purposes and performance shows, revolutionizing traditional business operations and entertainment experiences.

A vital component of this technological leap is the UAV LiDAR sensor, which plays an essential role in enhancing drone safety and functionality. By emitting laser beams to measure precise distances to a specific target, it allows drones to achieve stable hovering. This feature is particularly beneficial for delivery drones and drone shows, where maintaining a fixed position is crucial.

Without further delay, follow us to delve into the pivotal role and impact of UAV LiDAR sensors on these innovative applications.

UAV LiDAR Sensor in Delivery Drones

Market Analysis of Logistics in Urban Air Mobility

The Urban Air Mobility (UAM) market is experiencing remarkable growth, with projections estimating its value to soar from $3.8 billion in 2023 to $28.5 billion by 2030^[1]. The surge is being fueled by the growing demand for UAVs in logistics and delivery services as companies seek to meet the fast-paced needs of the modern consumer.

Challenges in Logistics Industries

The logistics sector faces significant hurdles that UAV delivery can potentially overcome:

l Speed and Efficiency: Traditional logistics systems often suffer from slow speeds and reduced efficiency due to traffic congestion and sub-optimal routes.

l Reaching Remote Areas: Traditional logistics struggle with delivering to remote or hard-to-reach locations, which can lead to increased delivery times and vehicle damage.

Special Scenarios of a UAV LiDAR Sensor

In scenarios requiring precise delivery of goods, such as during medical emergencies or the urgent supply of materials, a single-point LiDAR assists delivery drones in achieving a high-precision lock mode by emitting laser beams towards a specific target point and measuring its exact distance. Even when encountering gusts or other external disturbances, it ensures stable hovering and precise cargo delivery.

UAV LiDAR Sensor in Drone Shows

Market Analysis of Drone Show

A recent study^[2] has revealed a significant achievement for the drone show industry, with the global market value surpassing $338.99 million. North America claims the top position with a market value of $84,151,881, taking the lead. Europe follows closely with a market value of $66,193,384, while the Asia Pacific region holds a market value of $15,189,100. Additionally, both Latin America and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) regions are demonstrating strong growth prospects, accounting for 12% and 10% of the market share, respectively.

The Challenges of Drone Shows

l Flight Safety: Ensuring the safety of drone operations is critical. Drones need to keep a safe distance from each other and obstacles to prevent collisions and accidents. 

l Regulatory Restrictions: Drone shows are subject to strict regulations regarding airspace usage, flight paths, and operational times.

l Weather Effects: Adverse weather conditions can impact the performance of drones, requiring contingency plans and sometimes cancellations.

Special Scenarios of a UAV LiDAR Sensor

l Precision and Synchronization in Performances: A LiDAR sensor for UAVs provides precise distance data, allowing choreographers to design complex aerial performances. At the same time, the technology makes drones acutely aware of their exact position relative to other drones and the surrounding environment, facilitating coordinated control and movement synchronization. This enables complex and visually stunning aerial formations.

l Light and Shadow Effects: Drone shows often incorporate dynamic lighting effects that respond to music or audience interaction. The LiDAR of UAVs allows drones to move in sync with these light changes, creating a harmonious blend of light and movement that can be interactive, further engaging the audience.

Introduce to the Benewake LiDAR 

Benewake TFmini-S

This micro LiDAR sensor is ideally suited for drone shows. Here are its outstanding features:

l Mini Size for Easy Integration: The compact design (42*15*16mm) and lightweight nature (just 5g) of the TFmini-S make it an ideal UAV LiDAR sensor for drone shows, where space is often at a premium. Its small form factor allows it to be integrated into drones without adding significant weight or altering the drone's aerodynamics.

l High Accuracy: Drone performances require precise movement and coordination. This LiDAR for drones could maintain high accuracy within a range of 0.1m to 6m is crucial for keeping formation flights and avoiding collisions between drones. The 10cm reduced blind spot guarantees that drones can detect and respond to obstacles or other drones at close distances.

l Energy Efficiency: With an average current of ≤140mA and power consumption of ≤0.7W, our TFmini-S does not drain the drone's battery significantly. This feature is essential for drone shows, where prolonged flight times are necessary, and battery life is a critical factor.

l Compatibility and Flexibility: It can be compatible with a wide array of different open-source flight control systems, offering flexibility and broad applicability. Users can select the flight control system that best suits their project needs and integrate it with our Benewake LiDAR sensor.

Benewake 170M Ranging Sensor (only 10g)

At Benewake, we have a 170M ranging sensor with only 10g.

l It is a globally leading lightweight LiDAR product with a range of over 170 meters. With a reduction of 1 gram enhancing flight time by approximately 6 seconds, it can significantly increase the operation time of drones.

l The LiDAR's special reflective optical path design gives it an exceptionally small size among similar products, making it ideal for integration into compact drone airframe and tight gimbal.

l Our TF product series has shipped over 1 million units, maintaining close collaborations with numerous leading drone manufacturers worldwide, earning an excellent reputation in the drone industry.

l The product is capable of passing DO-160G certification, allowing it to withstand various harsh airborne environments.

Conclusion

At Benewake, we are committed to providing the best LiDAR for drones, elevating your aerial operations to new heights. Our steadfast pursuit of cutting-edge solutions and exceptional performance ensures that our sensors meet the highest standards of precision, reliability, and adaptability.

Ready to transform your drone operations? Dive into our range of UAV LiDAR sensors and push the boundaries of what's possible in the sky with Benewake.