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Velodyne Lidar today introduced the next generation of its Velabit sensor which is designed for autonomous mobile robots, autonomous vehicles, drones and other types of robotics systems. The solid-state Velabit sensor now has a simultaneously achievable maximum horizontal FoV of 90° and maximum vertical FOV of 70°. Velodyne said this is approximately three times more points per second than the previous model.

The Velabit sensor, which offers a range of up to 100 meters, has a compact form factor (2.4” x 2.4” x 1.38”), weighs 125 g and offers low power consumption (3-6W). Equipped with Velodyne’s proprietary micro-lidar array architecture (MLA), Velabit combines Velodyne’s LiDAR-based perception software Vella to translate Velabit’s point cloud data into perception outputs, including object classification and tracking, obstacle detection, scene segmentation, and object velocity. When combined with vehicle odometry data, Vella provides time and distance to collision measurements.

Velabit LiDAR sensor. | Credit: Velodyne Lidar

Engineered to be an automotive-grade LiDAR solution for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and autonomous vehicles, Velabit can be used for ADAS features such as blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic detection, and pedestrian automatic emergency braking.

“With our next-generation Velabit, Velodyne continues to innovate with a sensor that has small size for sleek, stylish integration while delivering high-quality performance,” said Anand Gopalan, CEO, Velodyne Lidar. “Our dedicated engineering team worked to bring our customers’ needs to life in under a year, highlighting our commitment to meeting market demands. And our goal is to not only meet market demands but transform lives globally. We believe this sensor will democratize LiDAR-based safety and autonomy across many different industries.”

Velabit can be combined with other Velodyne LiDAR technologies, such as the Velarray H800, for high-speed operation or function as a standalone LiDAR solution in low-speed applications.

Velodyne said the Velabit sensor will be available via mass production in as early as Q4 2022.

In December 2020, Velodyne announced the Velarray M1600, a solid-state LiDAR sensor it said is designed for mobile robots and last-mile delivery systems. The company said the sensor is the latest in its Velarray product line and the first in its M-series. San Jose, Calif.-based Velodyne was listed on NASDAQ in September via a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC).