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SLAM

SLAM

Simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) is the computational problem of constructing a map while simultaneously keeping track of the Lidar location within it. In other cases, it can be continuous localization inside an already mapped location. There are many SLAM solutions on the market, from turnkey systems where you simply switch it on and start to Open-source algorithms that requires knowledge to run. Further on some algorithms use an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) while others don’t. Anyway, the IMU used is a simple non expensive one and some Lidars already have it inside.

If you want a Lidar to work with SLAM Visimind has several solutions to help you:
  • Commercial SLAM
  • Pre-installed kit with Lidar, computer and IMU.
  • An installation guide to Open-source SLAM
Commercial SLAM

Visimind can guide with commercially available SLAM algorithms that we know work with our Lidars. Some also operate without IMU and instead relies on a fast updating of the Lidar frame. How SLAM works varies with the use case, and we believe we can help you there. Contact us to discuss your Lidar need and use case.

Pros and cons with SLAM

When using SLAM you will get a point cloud which has a metric coordinate system but it’s not georeferenced, ie you have no latitude and longitude and no idea of where is north.  The quality of the point cloud will be dependent on factors like

  • Be aware of fast rotations!
  • The terrain needs to have some features that the Lidar can track, in an empty field that looks the same everywhere SLAM will not function.
  • Errors will accumulate while you move to new terrain where you have not been before.
  • If you come back to an already mapped area and the loop closure is working properly.
Pre-installed kit with Lidar, computer and IMU

This is a ready kit with computer, Lidar of your choice, IMU and Open-source SLAM installed. It’s easy to use but assumes you know Linux. As output you will get a point cloud.

Installation guide with docker packages for Open-source SLAM

Visimind has prepared an installation guide with dockers and scripts to install SLAM on a Linux computer with Lidar and IMU. You still need to be familiar with Linux but you should quickly have SLAM up an running to generate