LIDAR
Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) technology uses lasers to illuminate a target and measure the reflected light using sensors which convert the information into data for use in visual analysis. MINELiDAR’s scanning technology differs from standard survey technology due to the type and amount of data it is able to capture.
While a standard survey Cavity Measuring System (CMS) uses LIDAR to capture spatial data only, MINELiDAR is capable of capturing spatial data as well as using the intensity of the reflected light to identify and map geological rock types and materials, geotechnical structures, and even ground support such as bolts and mesh.
SLAM
MINELiDAR’s specialized Emesent Scanners employs a world-leading technology known as SLAM – Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping, which allows mobile mapping in GPS-denied environments (though it does have onboard GPS if required).
Capabilities include recording about 300,000 data points per second, allowing for an accuracy of +/- 3cm or approximately 8mm with repeat scans as the data becomes denser. Every time the scan starts, the system creates its own local datum at 0,0,0 then builds its own model based on that. All that is required to align the data with the operational datum is to pick up a particular survey peg and map it to that location.
The versatility of the intensity field can even be leveraged to pick up a quick custom datum using something as simple as spraying bright white painted “X” on the wall.
Want to know more?
MineLiDAR Director, Peter Evans, was interviewed for the 3D Technology article in the Australian Mining Review magazine’s November issue of the Technical Talk segment.
To read more about LiDAR and see how we use it to collect and interpret data to enable clients to make informed decisions, download your copy below.