Bosch says it is making long-range LiDAR sensors production-ready – the first LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) system that is suitable for automotive use. According to the company, the sensor will cover both long and close ranges – on highways and in the city and is intended to complement the company’s camera and radar technologies and thus enable safe autonomous driving.
In order for automated driving to become a reality, according to Bosch analysts, a third sensor principle is required in addition to camera and radar systems. The company is, therefore, entering the series development of the first automotive LiDAR. The laser-based distance measurement technology is indispensable for driving functions at SAE Levels 3 to 5.
Particularly narrow silhouettes and plastic cladding of two-wheelers are difficult to see for a radar. A camera can also be blinded by unfavorable light. In the trio, the radar, camera, and LiDAR should complement each other and provide reliable information at all times.
Bosch wants to reduce the price of the elaborate LiDAR technology with the help of economies of scale and thus be suitable for the mass market.
The LiDAR has a very high resolution with a long-range and a large field of vision. The laser-based distance measurement also reliably detects non-metallic obstacles at a great distance – for example, stones on the street. At the same time, in terms of temperature resistance and reliability over the entire life of the vehicle, it places high demands on the vehicle components.
