Detecting Falling Objects with a LiDAR

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    Falling Lasers Optics
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the use of a LiDAR system for detecting falling objects, particularly in scenarios where objects may be thrown from heights such as balconies or bridges. Participants explore the technical challenges and considerations involved in ensuring effective detection while minimizing false positives.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions the scanning frequency of 100Hz and an angular resolution of 1°, questioning how to effectively detect vertically falling objects while scanning horizontally.
  • Another participant raises the concern that a narrow horizontal scan may miss objects falling faster than the scanning frequency.
  • A suggestion is made to rotate the LiDAR to a vertical position, along with questions about whether speed detection is necessary or if simple presence detection suffices.
  • A participant expresses the need to avoid false positives, specifically mentioning birds, while also questioning the choice of using LiDAR over a conventional camera with image processing.
  • Concerns are raised about the difficulty of avoiding false positives in open areas, suggesting that distinguishing between falling objects and birds may be challenging.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the effectiveness of LiDAR versus camera systems for this application, and there is no consensus on the best approach to minimize false positives or the necessity of detecting speed.

Contextual Notes

Participants do not fully clarify the assumptions regarding the environment in which the LiDAR will be used, nor do they resolve the technical limitations related to scanning frequency and detection capabilities.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in sensor technology, object detection systems, or applications involving falling object detection may find this discussion relevant.

daniel1211
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I am experimenting with a LiDAR system, one of my goals is to detect falling objects. The scanning frequency is 100Hz with an angular resolution of 1°. I have been able to detect an object if it is a certain size or greater moving horizontally but I'm not sure what I should focus on to make sure that it will see an object falling vertical as it scans horizontal.
 
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Where do the objects fall?
If you can just scan a narrow horizontal line, I guess you'll miss some objects that fall through faster than your scanning frequency.
 
rotate the LIDAR so it is vertical

do you need to detect speed of the falling object or just that it is there ?

if just that it is there ... why use a LIDAR ?

tell us more about what you are trying to achieve ... as in explain you project clearly

Dave
 
I would like to detect if objects are being thrown over a balcony, edge, bridge, etc... but I would also like to avoid false positives such as a bird.
 
daniel1211 said:
but I would also like to avoid false positives such as a bird.

in an open area ... that is going to be virtually impossible
 
Well, most birds have a motion different from falling objects, but I don't see why a LIDAR would be used. A conventional camera and some image processing looks easier.
 
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