Comparative Analysis of Slamtec Lidar Sensors: RPLIDAR A1 vs A2 vs A3

Comparative Analysis of Slamtec Lidar Sensors: RPLIDAR A1 vs A2 vs A3

Introduction

Let’s delve into a detailed comparison of the RPLIDAR A1, RPLIDAR A2, and RPLIDAR A3 from Slamtec. These laser range scanners (LIDAR) play a crucial role in robotics, mapping, and navigation. Here’s an in-depth analysis

RPLIDAR A1

  • Scanning Range: 0.15 - 12 meters
  • Working Range: 0 - 360°
  • Scanning Frequency: 5.5Hz
  • Angular Resolution: 1°

Highlights:

  • 360° full-scan detection.
  • Sample rate of up to 8000 times/second.
  • Ideal for robot navigation and localization.
  • Plug-and-play via micro USB connection.
  • Meets Class 1 laser safety standards.

Applications:

  • UAV mapping and obstacle avoidance.
  • ROS trolleys for mapping and obstacle avoidance.
  • Environment scanning and 3D rebuilding.
  • Robot navigation and obstacle avoidance.
  • AGV obstacle detection and avoidance.

Use Case

  • Small-scale robotics, educational purposes, hobbyist applications.

RPLIDAR A2

  • Scanning Range: 0.2 - 12 meters
  • Working Range: 0 - 360°
  • Scanning Frequency: 10Hz
  • Angular Resolution: 0.225°

Highlights:

  • 360° full-scan detection.
  • Sample rate of up to 8000 times/second.
  • Extended range radius of up to 16 meters.
  • Quiet operation with a self-designed brushless motor.
  • Ultra-thin design (only 4 cm thick).
  • Meets Class 1 laser safety standards.

Applications:

  • Similar to RPLIDAR A1, with enhanced performance.

Use Case

  • Robotics navigation, 3D mapping, terrain modeling, industrial automation.

RPLIDAR A3

  • Scanning Range: 0.2 - 25 meters
  • Working Range: 0 - 360°
  • Scanning Frequency: 5-15Hz
  • Angular Resolution: 0.225°

Highlights:

  • 360° full-scan detection.
  • Sample rate of up to 16000 times/second (highest in the economical LIDAR industry).
  • Extended range radius of up to 25 meters.
  • Indoor and outdoor availability (enhanced mode for indoor, reliable outdoor mode).
  • Utilizes RPVISION 3.0 for long-distance measurements.
  • Ultra-thin design (4 cm thick).
  • Meets Class 1 laser safety standards.

Applications:

  • UAV mapping and obstacle avoidance.
  • Robot navigation and obstacle avoidance.
  • Environment scanning and 3D rebuilding.

Use Case

  • Autonomous vehicles, drone navigation, industrial robotics, high-performance applications.

Technical Specifications Comparison

Feature RPLIDAR A1 RPLIDAR A2 RPLIDAR A3
Model A1M8 A2M12 A3M1
Dimensions 98.5mm x 70mm x 60mm 76mm x 76mm x 41mm 76mm x 76mm x 41mm
Weight G.W 170g G.W 190g G.W 190g
Battery Exclude Exclude Exclude
Distance Range 0.15 - 6m, White objects 0.2 - 12m, Based on white objects with 70% reflectivity White object: 25 meters; Black object: 10 meters
Angular Range 0-360 Degree 0-360 Degree 0-360 Degree
Distance Resolution <0.5mm <0.5mm N/A
Angular Resolution ≤1 Degree 0.225 degree 0.225° or 0.36°
Sample Duration 0.5ms 0.25ms N/A
Sample Frequency 2000~2010Hz 16000Hz 16 kHz
Scan Rate 1~10Hz, Typical 5.5Hz 5~15Hz, Typical 10Hz Typical value: 15 Hz (adjustable between 5 Hz-20 Hz)
Communication Interface USB USB TTL UART
Typical Applications Small-scale robotics, educational purposes, hobbyist applications Robotics navigation, 3D mapping, terrain modeling, industrial automation Autonomous vehicles, drone navigation, industrial robotics, high-performance applications
Product Link Link Link Link

 

Conclusion:

In summary, Slamtec's RPLIDAR product line provides a diverse range of Lidar sensors catering to different needs and applications. Whether you require a basic model for educational purposes or a high-performance sensor for industrial automation, there's a Slamtec Lidar sensor to suit your requirements. Choose wisely based on your project's specific needs for range, resolution, and scanning frequency.