LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) is a ranging sensor that measures distances by emitting laser pulses and timing their return after reflecting off surrounding objects. Mounted on a mobile robot, it produces a 3D point cloud used by SLAM to map the site and detect obstacles.
LiDAR: how it works and concrete examples
A 2D LiDAR scans a single plane (often at leg or wheel height), sufficient for detecting an obstacle on the ground and triggering a safety stop. A 3D LiDAR scans several planes at once and produces a volumetric point cloud, which makes it possible to recognize more complex shapes, a pallet, a rack, a moving person, and improves the robot's overall perception.
Material-handling robots generally combine several LiDAR units and cameras for 360° perception. The robot carries a 3D LiDAR paired with depth cameras to detect people, equipment and obstacles in real time, with dynamic avoidance and route recalculation. The MiR1200 Pallet Jack goes further by combining three 360° SICK laser scanners, five 3D cameras and a top-mounted 3D LiDAR. The STILL AXL 15 iGo combines LiDAR and 3D visual SLAM to load trucks with no floor infrastructure.
On a robot, LiDAR therefore serves a dual function: feeding navigation (via SLAM) and ensuring safety (obstacle detection and avoidance), often using the same sensors.
LiDAR differs from a simple camera in that it measures distance directly, independent of lighting conditions: it works just as well in full light as in a poorly lit area of a warehouse. That's why manufacturers most often combine LiDAR and cameras (sometimes depth cameras) rather than choosing one or the other: LiDAR secures the distance measurement, while cameras enrich shape recognition (standard or non-standard pallets, people, moving obstacles).
The autonomous pallet truck carries a 3D LiDAR paired with depth cameras for 360° perception. See the product page.
FAQ
What is the difference between a 2D LiDAR and a 3D LiDAR?
A 2D LiDAR scans a single horizontal plane, sufficient for detecting obstacles at ground level. A 3D LiDAR scans several planes and produces a volumetric point cloud, which improves detection of overhanging obstacles or complex shapes such as pallets.
Is LiDAR used only for navigation?
No, it also serves a safety function: detecting people, vehicles or static obstacles to trigger a slow-down, a detour or an emergency stop. Navigation and safety often rely on the same LiDAR sensors, which limits the number of components to install on the robot.
Related terms
Let's check your aisles before everyone else
Distribution is launching soon in France. In the meantime, four questions are enough: your regional contact sends you a written verdict on your site — no price, no date.