Under high time and cost pressure, operational efficiency has become a top priority in warehousing and logistics businesses. The increased use of forklifts and other mobile equipment has already resulted in enhanced speed and productivity. However, the daily risk of collisions, unnecessary equipment damage, and safety issues still hinder maximum efficiency.
MicroVision’s 3D lidar sensor, MOVIA™ L features advanced functions like a lidar collision avoidance system, which we call L-CAS. L-CAS is our fully integrated solution with the software embedded on the SoC (System on a Chip). A retrofit collision warning system utilizing lidar sensors offers an advanced solution to reduce collisions, prevent equipment damage, and enhance overall efficiency while providing relief to drivers. The process of retrofitting a forklift with a 3D lidar sensor system refers to adding or upgrading an existing forklift that did not originally come with one. Retrofitting a 3D lidar sensor system for a forklift is typically done to modernize the equipment without the need to invest in entirely new vehicles. It is a cost-effective solution that enhances operational safety and efficiency.
Better detection with 3D lidar solution
While cameras can be limited by lighting conditions, such as darkness or excessive brightness, and have difficulties in detecting floor surfaces, lidar solutions offer significant advantages in these scenarios. Unlike 2D lidar, which is confined to a single horizontal plane and lacks height detection or the ability to detect floor obstacles, a 3D lidar system excels in both horizontal and vertical coverage. This enables it to detect a wide range of obstacles, including small or irregular ones, such as those on the floor or overhanging objects from shelves. Its high-resolution point cloud allows precise distance measurement and object detection, making it ideal for leading anti-collision systems.
Advantages for the driver
There are significant advantages for the driver when a 3D lidar system is retrofitted onto a forklift. By helping with obstacle detection, the system reduces the burden on the driver to spot every potential hazard in real time. Especially, when a forklift driver needs to reverse, 3D lidar technology enhances safety and maneuverability by providing a clearer, more accurate view of the area behind the forklift. Efficiency can be maintained throughout a long shift.
Simple integration is indispensable
One of the most important aspects of a retrofit solution is its simple integration. It must be easy to mount and compatible with existing equipment. Furthermore, simple software integration and configuration to different environments and customer requirements are key.
"Thanks to its onboard software, MicroVision’s L-CAS secures a simple integration. It features a robust solid-state design and enables configurable 3D zone detection, object tracking and detection, and ground detection, making it ideal for high-speed warehouse applications," explains Dan Cowan, Vice President of Business Development at MicroVision. "With its regular and automotive Ethernet capabilities, the 3D sensor meets industrial standards, thereby avoiding additional costs," adds Dan.
3D solution triggers alerts or action signals
Warehouse vehicles retrofitted with MicroVision’s L-CAS can trigger visual and auditory alerts to warn operators of potential collisions, allowing them to take immediate corrective action. With its onboard software, MicroVision’s lidar solution also offers the ability to initiate actions like brake signals or speed reductions, in line with warehouse and logistics requirements.
Cost-efficiency by retrofit
"Retrofit is a great option to increase efficiency at a low cost. Furthermore, sensors with low power consumption as well as minimal configuration and integration times enable cost-efficiency for sectors like warehousing and logistics," explains Dan.
As the demand for efficiency and safety grows, MicroVision’s L-CAS is a cost-effective way to enhance productivity without requiring a complete fleet upgrade.