Robotics relies on various types of sensors to gather information about the environment and the robot's state. Among the most common sensors used in robotics are cameras, LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), and IMUs (Inertial Measurement Units). Each of these sensors provides unique data that helps the robot navigate, understand its surroundings, and make decisions.
Cameras are widely used in robotics for visual perception. They can capture images and videos, which are then processed to identify objects, track movements, or even recognize faces. For example, a robot equipped with a camera can use computer vision algorithms to navigate through a room by detecting walls, furniture, and other obstacles. Cameras can be used in conjunction with other sensors to enhance the robot's understanding of its environment, providing rich visual information that helps in tasks such as autonomous driving or robotic visual inspections.
LiDAR sensors provide precise distance measurements by emitting laser beams and measuring the time it takes for the light to return after hitting an object. This allows the robot to create a detailed 3D map of its surroundings. For instance, autonomous vehicles commonly use LiDAR to detect nearby objects and navigate safely through traffic. The dense point clouds generated by LiDAR sensors enable robots to understand complex environments and avoid obstacles effectively. Meanwhile, IMUs track the robot's orientation and motion by measuring acceleration and rotational rates. This data is critical for tasks requiring precise movement and stabilization, such as balancing a robot on two wheels or controlling drones. Together, these sensors help robots perform complex tasks more reliably and efficiently.