In the rapidly evolving world of Industrial AIoT, choosing the right sensor technology is critical. Whether you're optimizing a smart factory floor, automating AGVs, or managing predictive maintenance, your choice of sensing technology directly impacts performance, precision, and scalability.
Three of the most common sensor types are LiDAR, Radar, and Ultrasonic. They each have distinct characteristics. In this article, we compare their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal applications to help you make an informed decision.
LiDAR: High Precision for Complex Environments
LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) uses laser pulses to measure distances with millimeter-level accuracy. Wiseome’s Mini LiDAR, for example, offers compact, low-power solutions ideal for industrial robots, AGVs, and autonomous mobile robot (AMR) fulfillment solutions.
Pros
- Extremely accurate 3D and 2D mapping
- Ideal for edge computing and real-time feedback loops
- Scalable for complex AIoT architectures
Cons
- Sensitive to environmental noise (e.g. dust, glare)
- Typically more expensive than ultrasonic
Related reading: Comparison of 1D, 2D, and 3D LiDAR Systems
Radar: Reliable in Harsh Industrial Environments
Radar systems use radio waves to detect objects and measure speed or distance. They are widely used in automotive safety, long-range obstacle detection, and outdoor surveillance.
Pros
- Performs well in extreme weather or dusty conditions
- Suitable for long-range tracking
- Works well in low-visibility environments
Cons
- Lower spatial resolution than LiDAR
- May not be ideal for high-precision tasks
Ultrasonic: Simple and Cost-Effective
Ultrasonic sensors measure distance using high-frequency sound waves. They’re best suited for short-range object detection, such as robotic arms, liquid level sensing, or parking assistance systems.
Pros
- Inexpensive and widely available
- Good for proximity sensing in controlled environments
Cons
- Performance degrades in noisy or humid settings
- Limited range and resolution
How to Choose the Right Sensor for Your AIoT System
When designing an industrial AIoT system, consider the following:
- Precision requirements: For mm-level precision, LiDAR is often superior.
- Environmental conditions: Radar is more resilient in harsh outdoor or dirty environments.
- Budget constraints: Ultrasonic sensors offer low-cost options but are limited in range and precision.
- Application complexity: For advanced AI/ML decision-making at the edge, LiDAR + edge computing may offer the best value.
Related reading from our archives:
While no single sensor technology is a one-size-fits-all solution, understanding the capabilities of LiDAR, Radar, and Ultrasonic systems can guide you toward the right choice for your AIoT application.
At Wiseome, we specialize in miniature LiDAR solutions that are compact, efficient, and built for precision.
Want help designing your AIoT sensing strategy?
Contact us to learn more.