LiDAR measures surfaces
Laser returns provide distance observations around the scanner. The sensor’s coverage and the visibility of a surface determine what can be sampled.
LiDAR & SLAM
Measure geometry and map movement with LiDAR and SLAM.
LiDAR samples distances to surrounding surfaces. SLAM—simultaneous localization and mapping—estimates the scanner’s movement while building a map. Together, they support portable spatial capture through connected environments.
Measurement and mapping
Two roles in a portable mapping workflow.
SLAM estimates movement
The mapping system relates observations across the capture route to estimate movement and assemble the surrounding geometry into a map.
Preview helps guide capture
Supported handheld scanners display coverage during collection. Use preview to identify missed areas while you can still adjust the route.
Other sensors add context
Cameras and motion sensors provide additional observations in supported systems. The sensor configuration and processing vary by product.
How it works
Plan a route that supports connected observations.
- 01
Plan
Identify the required spaces, access points, and likely obstructions.
- 02
Capture
Move steadily with surrounding geometry visible to the sensor.
- 03
Review
Check preview coverage and revisit required surfaces where practical.
- 04
Process
Inspect the assembled map and verify it against project requirements.
Field preview supports capture decisions. Project accuracy still needs evaluation using the intended processing workflow and control.
In practice
See the geometry in a processed scan.
The supplied Cobra S sample shows a colorized point cloud produced from a handheld capture workflow. Use it to explore the data representation, then plan a demonstration around your own environment.
Practical evaluation
Plan for the conditions that affect capture.
- Reflectivity and range. Keep the sensor’s stated reflectivity conditions attached to quoted range values.
- Coverage and obstruction. Consider field of view and viewing angle, and plan additional passes behind equipment or around corners.
- Movement and scene structure. Move steadily and assess areas with repetitive geometry, moving objects, or few visible features.
- Reference and validation. Define any survey control and check measurements against the intended project tolerances.
Scanner selection
Choose coverage around the site.
Cobra, Pentra, Radix, and Staris offer different sensor configurations, fields of view, weights, and battery options. Compare those characteristics with the distances, access constraints, and output requirements on your project.
Questions about LiDAR and SLAM
Is SLAM the same as satellite positioning?
SLAM estimates movement from observations of the environment, while satellite positioning provides a different positioning input. Systems may combine these approaches where the hardware and workflow support them.
Does a higher point rate guarantee better accuracy?
Point rate describes how many measurements are produced over time. Accuracy also depends on sensor performance, capture conditions, alignment, processing, and project control.
What happens after field capture?
The recorded observations are processed into the supported spatial outputs. Explore point clouds and 3D modeling →