What is LiDAR and how does it work?

LiDAR sensors are an essential component in GeoSLAM’s mobile mapping solutions.

Together with our SLAM algorithm, these two technologies are responsible for
producing 3D pictures or “point clouds” of the environment.

LiDAR technology has been around since the 1960’s when laser scanners were
mounted to planes. This type of airborne LiDAR emitted light beams towards the
surface of the ground to provide distance measurements. LiDAR data became a useful
tool for providing accurate geospatial measurements in the late 1980s. The introduction
of commercially viable GPS systems made this possible.

What is LiDAR?
LiDAR is a remote sensing method. LiDAR technology uses the light from a laser to
collect measurements. These are used to create 3D models and maps of objects and
environments.

What does LiDAR stand for?

Light Detection and Ranging. The acronym LiDAR is often used to name this remote
sensing method. It uses light to measure distances and is also known as laser scanning
or 3D scanning.

How does Light Detection and Ranging

(LiDAR) work?
A LiDAR system calculates how long it takes for beams of light to hit an object or
surface and reflect back to the laser scanner. The distance is then calculated using the
velocity of light*. These are known as ‘Time of Flight’ measurements.

*The velocity, or speed of light is 299,792,458 metres per second

How do LiDAR sensors work?

Depending on the sensor used, LiDAR scanning units can fire hundreds of thousands of
pulses per second. These light waves bounce off objects and return to the LiDAR
sensor. The sensor uses the time it takes for each pulse to return to calculate distance
(time of flight). Each of these pulsed laser measurements, or returns, can be processed
into a 3D visualization known as a ‘point cloud’. That’s how a LiDAR sensor works
explained in a nutshell.

What is the difference between Radar and LiDAR?

LiDAR works in a similar way to Radar and Sonar yet uses light waves from a laser,
instead of radio or sound waves.

What is LiDAR Technology?

LiDAR technology is the application of the remote sensing method described above. It is
usually used to examine the surface of the earth, assess information about the ground
surface, create a digital twin of an object or detail a range of geospatial information.
LiDAR systems harness this technology, using LiDAR data to map three-dimensional
models and digital elevation. From handheld to airborne LiDAR, there’s a LiDAR system
to capture the data you need. LiDAR mapping uses a laser scanning system with an
integrated Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) and GNSS receiver or in GeoSLAM’s case,
the SLAM algorithm, which allows each measurement, or points in the resulting point
cloud, to be georeferenced. Each ‘point’ combines to create a 3D representation of the
target object or area.

LiDAR maps can be used to give positional accuracy – both absolute and relative, to allow
viewers of the data to know where in the world the data was collected and how each point
relates to objects terms of distance.

LiDAR data, in the form or a point cloud, can be used to map entire cities, enabling decision
makers to accurately pinpoint structures or areas of interest in millimetre perfect detail. Features
and objects such as road networks, bridges, street furniture and vegetation can be classified
and extracted.

LiDAR maps can also be used to highlight changes and abnormalities such as surface
degradation, slope changes and vegetation growth.

What can you use LiDAR systems and data for?

There aren’t many applications that wouldn’t benefit from using LiDAR. From the games
industry to Formula 1 teams – simulations based on 3D models are often used to give
teams the edge before setting foot on a racetrack.
  Mapping: Surveying tasks often require LiDAR systems to collect three-
dimensional measurements. They can create digital terrain (DTM) and digital
elevation models (DEMs) of specific landscapes.

 Architecture: Laser scanning systems are popular for surveying the built
environment too. This covers buildings, road networks, and railways.

 Real Estate: Laser scanners can be used indoors to measure space and create
accurate floorplans.

 Construction: The construction industry is also using LiDAR surveys

increasingly. LiDAR technology tracks building projects and produces digital
twins for BIM applications. It can also help produce 3D models for the conditional
monitoring of structures, and revit models for architects and structural engineers.

 The Environment: Environmental applications for LiDAR are plentiful. Laser scanning is
a popular method of mapping flood risk, carbon stocks in forestry, and monitoring
coastal erosion.

 Automotive: LiDAR is also seeing increased levels of adoption for automation

applications. Smaller, low-range LiDAR scanners help navigate autonomous
vehicles.

What is LiDAR mapping?

LiDAR mapping uses a laser scanning system with an integrated Inertial Measurement
Unit (IMU) and GNSS receiver. In GeoSLAM’s case, we use the SLAM algorithm to
power our laser mapping technology. This allows each measurement, or point in the
resulting point cloud, to be georeferenced. Each ‘point’ combines to create a 3D
representation of the target object or area.

LiDAR maps give absolute and relative positional accuracy. This allows viewers of the
data to know where in the world the data was collected and how each point relates to
objects in terms of distance.

LiDAR point cloud data can map entire cities. Decision-makers can pinpoint structures
or areas of interest in millimetre perfect detail. Features and objects such as road
networks, bridges, street furniture, and vegetation can be classified and extracted.

LiDAR maps can also highlight changes and abnormalities such as surface degradation, slope
changes and vegetation growth.
LiDAR Scanning Technology Explained
So, what is LiDAR? Hopefully, we’ve satisfied your curiosity about LiDAR (light
detection and ranging). This pulsed laser technology has so many applications for
mapping, providing detailed information and data on the environment. What’s more, you
can be assured of speed and accuracy when you carry out a LiDAR scan.

If you’re looking for a LiDAR scanner for a business application, GeoSLAM technology
gives you the power to collect the geospatial data you need. Our range of handheld
laser scanners uses LiDAR and SLAM technology to produce point clouds for many
different applications. Contact us for more information, and find out what a new
GeoSLAM LiDAR laser scanner could do for you.

References

https://geoslam.com/what-is-lidar/

https://geoslam.com/what-is-lidar-surveying/

LiDAR for Surveying – how does it work?

There are two main types of LiDAR:

 Topographic LiDAR typically uses a near-infrared laser to map the land

 Bathymetric LiDAR uses water-penetrating green light to also measure seafloor and
riverbed elevations.

Laser-based scanners use a process called trigonometric triangulation to accurately

capture a 3D shape as millions of points. A LiDAR instrument works by projecting a
laser line or multiple lines onto an object. It then captures its reflection with single or
multiple sensors. The sensors are located at a known distance from the laser’s source.
As a result, accurate point measurements can then be made by calculating the
reflection angle of the laser light.

LiDAR System for Surveying – what are the

best use cases?
There are many great use cases for LiDAR. These include civil engineering and
surveying, from highways and roadworks, to bridge construction and mapping large
retail developments. In fact, LiDAR is extensive, allowing surveying firms to be more
cost effective while maintaining the highest level of professionalism. Some great
examples include:
 Design

LiDAR surveying equipment and 3D scanners help civil engineers get highly accurate
results in a very short space of time. Essential when working with tight timeframes.

Evaluation

LiDAR technology is perfect for creating a digital model so you can spot and correct
irregularities before building work starts, as well as monitor changes between scans to
show progress.

Surveying

Surveyors prefer LiDAR systems to help them create detailed 3D images, accurate
digital terrain models (DTM) and digital elevation models (DEMs) of specific landscapes.

LiDAR really comes into its own when surveying historic sites, occupied
spaces, underground environments and dynamic cities.
LiDAR Surveying Benefits – what sets it apart
from traditional methods?
 Speed: LiDAR can collect hundreds of thousands of points per second making it an
exceptionally fast method of surveying. Scans of building interiors can take only minutes,
and even large-scale surveys can be completed in under an hour. Without the need for
GPS.

 Accuracy: LiDAR systems collect extremely dense data with very little room between
points. This means that the results are highly accurate. This accurate data allows
professionals to plot and model natural and man-made geographies with the level of
precision they need to plan detailed projects.

 Flexibility: When it comes to surveying land with LiDAR, there are plenty of options to
choose from. Hand-held devices are ideal for laser scanning and can be mounted on to
cars, poles or drones. LiDAR data can even be collected at any time of day or night
since it uses light as the measurement tool.

 Safety: LiDAR systems work relatively quickly and can be operated remotely, making
them a good choice for locations that may be unsafe for humans to operate or stay for
extended periods.

LiDAR Drones for Surveying – how

surveyors are reaching new highs
Amidst all the new consumer tech developments of the last 10 years, there’s nothing
that quite excites forward-thinking surveyors as airborne laser scanning for (drone)
remote surveying.

And you can see why:

 Capturing topographic data with a drone can be up to five times faster than with
land-based methods and requires less manpower.

 The beauty of airborne lasers and drones, unlike manned aircraft, is that they can
fly at a much lower altitude, and are not restricted by cloud cover in making the
generation of high-resolution, high-accuracy data much faster and less
expensive.

 Airborne LiDAR takes the surveying out of your hands and delivers data from
places that humans cannot go such as dense jungles or underground caverns.

 They don’t interfere or disrupt site operations below.

 here are 4 main parts of an airborne LiDAR which produce a vertical accuracy of 15 cm
vertically and 40 cm horizontally. It sends over 160,000 pulses per second. This is why LiDAR
point clouds create millions of points.

1. 1. LiDAR Sensors: As the drone travels, sensors scan the ground from side to side.
The pulses are commonly in green or near-infrared bands.
2. 2. GPS Receivers: They measure the altitude and location of the drone. These tracks
are important for accurate terrain and elevation values.
3. 3. Inertial Measurement Units (IMU): As the drone travels, IMUs track its tilt. LiDAR
systems use tilt to accurately measure the incident angle of the pulse.
4. 4. Data Recorders: As LiDAR scans the surface, a computer records all of the pulse
returns. As a result, these recordings get translated into elevation.

SLAM – what exactly is it, and how is it

used in surveying?
Alongside LiDAR, you’ll likely have heard the acronym ‘SLAM’ and wonder what it’s all
about. SLAM stands for Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping and SLAM devices
take data from sensors to build a picture of the environment around them and where
they are positioned within that environment.

These sensors may use visual data (such as camera imagery), or non-visible data
sources (such as Sonar, Radar, or LiDAR) and basic positional data, using an inertial
measurement unit (IMU for short). The device utilizes this information to compute a
‘best estimate’ of where it is within the environment.

By moving its position within the environment, all environmental features (i.e., walls,
floors, pillars) will move in relation to the device and the SLAM algorithm can improve its
estimate with the new positional information. SLAM is an iterative process – the more
iterations the device takes, the more accurately it can position itself within that space.

With a SLAM handheld scanner, it’s possible to simply walk through an environment
and build a digital map as you go. By removing laborious set-ups from the equation, the
time and cost savings are enormous. SLAM-based mobile mapping systems slash
survey times and can be over 10 times faster at acquiring data. By cutting out GPS,
SLAM systems let you scan by hand or by attaching a scanner to a trolley, drone, pole
or cradle.

How to conduct a LiDAR survey

Conducting a LiDAR survey is both easy and fast:

Choose the mobile scanner you’d like to use for your project. The LiDAR
works by pointing a laser at a target surface.
The surface reflects the light back to the LiDAR equipment, and the
sensor records the reflected light to measure the distance travelled.

This data is then combined with the position and orientation of the
LiDAR equipment, which is measured using the GPS receiver and
internal measurement systems.

This creates a set of three-dimensional spatial coordinates that include

latitude, longitude and height, creating a combination of data that is
called a point.

When land surveying, the LiDAR equipment collects innumerable points

using the measurement methods described above.

You now have your point cloud.

LiDAR Data
LiDAR data attributes can vary, depending upon how the data was collected and
processed. You can determine what attributes are available for each LiDAR point by
looking at the metadata. All LiDAR data points will have an associated X,Y location and
Z (elevation) values.

Most LiDAR data points will have an intensity value, representing the amount of light
energy recorded by the sensor.

The real value comes from turning raw data and LiDAR survey data into actionable
information. Including being able to georeference your point cloud. With modern
software, data that’s been collected can be extracted from most scanner units by either
connecting the device to a PC or downloading the data to a USB memory stick. This
LiDAR scan data can then be calibrated allowing analysis and modelling. Moreover,
LiDAR data processing is very fast. Raw data requires just a few minutes of calibration
(5-30min) to generate the final product.

LiDAR Accuracy
Depending on the environment in which the scan is conducted and the specifics of the
3D laser scanner, an accuracy of 0.002-0.197” may be achieved. This high level of
accuracy helps ensure that measurements are correct the first time so that less work is
needed to complete subsequent steps in design and production. Additionally, LiDAR
takes the human element out of the process making the data even more accurate.

LiDAR Cost
When we look at the overall cost of LiDAR surveys, there are multiple cost items to be
considered. First of all, the hardware: UAV LiDAR sensor sets (scanner, IMU, and
GNSS) cost anywhere between tens to hundreds of thousands. How much does a
drone LiDAR survey cost? It generally turns out to be about £3,000 per km2 for each of
the survey grids. On the other hand, for example, GeoSLAM’s ZEB Go mobile laser
scanner costs around £22,000. Furthermore, GeoSLAM ZEB products come with a
software package and local storage, with no hefty storage or subscriptions costs,
making it the most cost effective SLAM system available today.

LiDAR vs Traditional Surveying

We know how time-consuming it can be to set up traditional survey equipment,
especially in very inaccessible environments. Fortunately, mobile laser scanners take
away all this headache. You can literally create a point cloud as you ‘walk and scan’, or
use remote scanning while simultaneously transmitting high-level fidelity images.

Airborne LiDAR h; elps to create highly accurate digital elevation and terrain models.
This makes LiDAR particularly useful for example, in measuring surveying land, tree
size, flood elevations, and site distances. Also, for modelling narrow objects such as
power lines or road networks and poorly visible objects. All this information is captured
in mere minutes – versus weeks when compared to a traditional survey crew using
GPS. That means there’s no need to visit the site more than once. In short, with LiDAR
you can expect three improvements over a typical survey – faster delivery, value-added
service, and a better return on investment.

LiDAR laser technology in surveying has been a game-changer for many companies
around the world wanting to take advantage of its many benefits, as you can see from
these success stories. And it will continue to do so as the rapid development in LiDAR
hardware coupled with advanced, user-friendly software offer professionals greater
opportunity to conduct highly accurate surveys faster, safer and more cost-effective.

Where in the World is

LiDAR Being Used?
Top 6 uses from 2021
With increasing awareness of LiDAR technology, its applications are becoming more diverse.
From helping to prevent natural disasters to mapping historic caves and restoring architectural
wonders, our ZEB laser scanners have been involved in a range of interesting projects over the
past 12 months.

Here are our top 6 real-world uses of 2021, showing how people made use of this technology all
over the globe. These examples detail the versatility of laser scanning technology and the
essential information and intriguing findings it can uncover.

First: US: America’s Oldest Show Cave Mapped

For the First Time
Accurately surveying and mapping caves has historically been a challenge. Cave
systems often include difficult terrain, dangerous conditions and inaccessible
passageways. What’s more, there’s no option to use GPS underground, which limits the
mapping opportunities.

This year, a team from James Madison University overcame these limits by mapping
the oldest show cave in America using a ZEB Horizon scanner.
Grand Caverns (formerly known as Weyers Cave) is the oldest show cave in the USA. It
is now a popular tourist attraction but is also a site of scientific and even historical
interest. It was used during the Civil War by Confederate and Union soldiers. These
soldiers made their marks on the cave, with over 230 signing their names on the walls.

Professor Angel A. Garcia jr. and his students are the first to ever map the cave in 3D,
creating a comprehensive point cloud with many intended uses. This data is being used
to help measure mineral formations, plus monitor any human impact on the cave.

Video presentation using lidar :

https://youtu.be/KVUfQD5EXUw?si=06fBU36j_Dct9PvL

The point cloud data has also been used to create 3D printed models of the cave
system. These models are a celebration of the cave’s extensive history and highlight its
fascinating geoheritage.

The models will also enable people to learn all about the caverns, even when they are
physically un:able to visit them.

Second: Greece: Greek-Roman Odeon Scanned for

Restoration
Another historical preservation project made possible by the use of LiDAR scanners was the
creation of a digital model of the ancient Roman Odeon theatre in Greece.

The Roman Odeon is known around the world as one of the most important monuments in the
ancient Greek city, Nikopolis. Dating back as far as the first century AD, historians believe it
was used for lectures, literary and musical events. It was also used for theatrical performances
that honour the Greek god Apollo. It’s made up of 19 rows of seats, a semi-circle orchestra and a
stage.
Traditional scanning methods would have struggled with mapping this impressive monument,
due to its age. The intricacy and delicacy of the structure only add to this difficulty. But the
‘walk and scan’ method used with the ZEB Revo RT scanner, made it much more achievable.
The team were able to capture and understand the layout of this historic site within only 15
minutes.

With the resulting scans, researchers were able to identify areas of the ancient structure that are
in need of restoration work.

Third uses: US: Forest Wildfire Management and

Prevention
Environmental change ensured 2021 was another catastrophic year for wildfires across
the world. Particularly across the American West. Almost 7.7 million acres faced
ferocious fires across the U.S.

One team from Northern Arizona University are hoping to shrink the spread of future
fires, and LiDAR scanning is a key tool in their fight. They’re using drones and planes
equipped with scanners to accompany ground measurements and build a 3D view of
forested areas.

These scans and 3D models will then be used to identify areas of forest that are so
overgrown and thickly populated with trees that they pose an alarming wildfire risk.
Workers will then thin out these areas, to slow the spread of wildfires.

This slower rate of spread will make it easier to control and contain wildfires.

The project is hoping to thin out around 500,000 acres by 2035. This is a mammoth task
and the LiDAR data captured by the team is an integral part of being quick and efficient
with their work.

Fourth uses: France: Deep Time Isolation

Experiment
LiDAR scanning played an important role in an unusual project conducted by The Human
Adaptation Institute, which ended in April 2021.

The ‘Deep Time 40’ experiment, sent 15 participants to live in caves in the Lombrives region of
France for 40 days. During this time they had no access to clocks or sunlight and had no contact
with the outside world.

The aim of the experiment was to learn about the limits of human adaptability to extreme
isolation. They also wished to explore the human brain’s relationship to time.
Participants were set a series of tasks, one of which was to scan the depths of the cave, to help
give structure to their days. The researchers chose ZEB Horizon scanners as the best tool for this
job. Mainly because they are so user friendly while still being capable of capturing the expanses
and crevices of the cave.

The caves stretch for 3km, with chambers of up to 70m in height and wells up to 90m deep.
Impressive, but the Lombrive terrain data was easily mapped with the ZEB Horizon’s 100m
range.

Fifth: Caribbean: Large Scale Hospital Restoration

Project
Hospitals can often pose a difficult prospect to map, due to their significant size, and
their complex, multi-room layouts. But in 2021, this complicated job was completed in
less than a week thanks to the use of a ZEB Horizon scanner.

The St. Elizabeth Hospital supported its local community for over 160 years, functioning
as the main hub for medical care to Curaçao and nearby island nations. Constructed in
1855, it had a long and illustrious history but in 2011 it was deemed no longer fit for
purpose.

A new hospital was built beside it, and in November 2019 the St Elizabeth hospital
closed its doors to the public after 164 years of service to the people of the islands.
Less than two years later, it is already earmarked for potential renovation projects to
commemorate its contribution to local life.

In anticipation of this restoration work, Ellen de Brabander from Urban Studio was
tasked with scanning the hospital. The size and complexity of the building meant this
posed a difficult prospect. The hospital consists of 6 sub-buildings, with an average of 3
floors each, not to mention the many, many rooms on every floor. The time frame for the
project appeared to be significant.

Instead of relying on a traditional tripod-based system, Ellen used a ZEB Horizon

scanner. This meant she could move easily through the complicated buildings and
awkward spaces capturing data as she went.
Rather than the anticipated months, the building was completely captured within just 6
working days. These scans covered 22,346 square metres, spread over 52 separate
scans. Each scan took around 20 mins.
Ellen has already used this point cloud data to create an accurate BIM model of the
hospital. Next, she hopes to create a virtual tour, so that people can enter the buildings
from anywhere in the world.

Video presentation using lidar :

https://youtu.be/JxWDDg4Thrk?si=7ijooS098oQlMLGS

sixth: France: Surveying a Villa for a Large

Renovation Project
Professional surveyors have adopted LiDAR technology quicker than most, cutting the
time it takes to accurately measure large areas, cost effectively. In early 2021, Robin
Bruna of CEP David Pierrot scanned a large villa in the South-East of France, ahead of
its new land insertions and construction work.

The 8000 SQ/m villa is on a hillside, further adding to the complexity of the scan. Using
the ZEB Horizon scanner, the team mapped the entire area over 4 scans, each lasting
10-15 minutes. They captured the entire villa, pool area, and the hillside leading up to
the house.
Using the point cloud as a foundation, Robin created both 2D and 3D vector maps
in Autocad. They also created longitudinal cuts through the point cloud to provide
reliable and visual information of the incline of the hillside.

The results were sent to an architect so they could begin to work out the feasibility of
the work that needed to take place, without needing to visit the location.

Video presentation using lidar :

https://youtu.be/qx_-fagUf28