What is SLAM Technology and How Does Eagle Achieve It

What is SLAM technology?

SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) is a pivotal technology in robotics and computer vision that utilizes data from various sensors, such as cameras, LIDAR, and IMU, etc. to identify features in the surrounding environment. This capability allows a device to navigate autonomously without prior knowledge of the area while simultaneously mapping that environment.

 

The operation of SLAM involves several key steps. First, the device captures sensor data to recognize features in its surroundings. Next, algorithms process this data to estimate the device's trajectory while constructing a map. A critical component of this process is "Loop Closure," which detects when the device has revisited a previously mapped area, enabling it to correct any cumulative errors in both the map and localization. By continuously refining both the map and the device's position, SLAM facilitates robust navigation in dynamic and complex environments, making it an essential component of modern autonomous systems. (The purple route is the scan path and the dot is the start and end point.)

 

 

Eagle Utilizes SLAM Technology

The Eagle Lidar Scanner Series is designed to seamlessly integrate advanced imaging and mapping capabilities, particularly through the use of SLAM technology. Available in two models—the Eagle Max, featuring four 48 MP HD cameras, and the standard Eagle, equipped with one 48 MP HD camera—both are capable of producing stunning 8K HDR ultra-high-definition panoramic images. The Eagle Max offers versatile multi-view acquisition options, including first-person, overhead, and 45° perspectives, enabling effective data collection in a variety of environments and enhancing adaptability during scanning operations.

 

Utilizing SLAM technology, the Eagle series excels at constructing detailed environment models through real-time localization and mapping. By identifying and leveraging environmental features, these scanners can navigate complex spaces with multiple routes and varying elevations, ensuring precise modeling even in challenging conditions. With accuracy levels reaching up to 2 cm at 10 meters, 3 cm at 20 meters, and 5 cm at 40 meters, the Eagle series is particularly well-suited for design and mapping applications that require a high degree of precision.

 

In addition to its impressive imaging and mapping capabilities, the Eagle series incorporates GPS data to support both absolute and relative coordinate positioning. This integration allows users to merge scanning results with existing maps, providing a comprehensive and coherent view of the scanned environment. By harnessing the power of SLAM technology, the Eagle LiDAR Scanner Series not only captures high-quality imagery but also ensures reliable and accurate data for effective navigation and modeling in diverse and complex settings.

Advantages of SLAM Technology

1. Autonomous Navigation

SLAM empowers Eagle LiDAR scanner to navigate through unfamiliar environments without needing pre-existing maps. This is particularly beneficial in scenarios such as search and rescue operations or exploratory missions where the environment may be unpredictable. The ability to operate autonomously enhances efficiency and safety, as devices can make real-time decisions based on their surroundings.

 

 

2. Real-Time Mapping

One of the standout features of SLAM is its ability to create maps on the fly. As the Eagle moves, it continuously gathers data from its sensors—such as cameras and LIDAR—and processes this information to update the map in real-time. This is crucial in dynamic environments where obstacles may change or new features may appear, allowing the device to adapt its navigational strategies accordingly.

 

 

3. High Accuracy

SLAM technology employs sophisticated algorithms to achieve exceptional accuracy in positioning and mapping. By leveraging sensor fusion techniques, SLAM effectively combines data from multiple sensors to minimize errors. The Eagle Lidar Scanner provides an impressive accuracy of up to 2cm, which is especially crucial in applications such as building mapping, where precise spatial modeling is essential for effective planning and execution.

 

 

4. Reliability in Complex Environments

SLAM is designed to handle the complexities of real-world environments, including indoor spaces with intricate layouts and outdoor settings with varied terrain. It can navigate through cluttered areas, such as crowded rooms or dense forests, by recognizing features like walls, furniture, and natural landmarks. Additionally, SLAM can manage multiple levels and dynamic changes in the environment, such as moving objects or obstacles.

 

 

5. Cost Efficiency

Traditional mapping methods often require extensive manual labor and infrastructure, such as prior surveying or expensive equipment. SLAM reduces these costs by enabling devices to autonomously gather and map their surroundings. This not only lowers operational expenses but also accelerates the data collection process, allowing for quicker project turnarounds. Our Eagle series is priced at around $2,000, which is very cost-effective compared to the market price of $4,000! Pre-order and get up to 50% off!

 

 

6. Integration with Other Technologies

The Eagle Lidar scanners leverage SLAM in conjunction with GPS, Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs), and computer vision systems. In outdoor environments, GPS supplies absolute positioning data, while SLAM oversees local mapping and navigation. This integration enhances the overall accuracy and reliability of the system, enabling it to precisely position itself as it scans each location.

 

 

7. Flexibility and Scalability

SLAM systems can be designed to work with a wide range of expansions or sensors, making them adaptable to different applications and environments. Eagle supports installing a Manual Tripod to collect spatial information at fixed points, adding an Automotive Rooftop Mount to fix it on the car and collect street scenery at will; or using a Backpack Kit to collect data on the back, which can be used for exercise and synchronized collection; or use Bicycle Kit to mount it on the bike. Or use the RTK Antenna & Signal Module to acquire GPS data for surveying and mapping.

 

 

8. Various Applications

SLAM technology has a wide range of applications across numerous industries, including Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), agricultural field mapping, transportation monitoring, construction surveying, environmental monitoring, and home automation, among others. Its versatility and effectiveness make it a valuable tool in enhancing operational efficiency and providing innovative solutions across these sectors.

 

 

Collection Data

First, install the handle of the Eagle by aligning the metal buckle on the handle with the metal buckle on the machine. This will facilitate an easy scanning. Next, start the machine by pressing and holding the ON/OFF button on the screen for about 6 seconds (the same process applies for turning it off). The sun symbol in the bottom right corner can be used to select indoor and outdoor modes, as well as adjust the brightness and exposure value, to achieve better model effects in subsequent processing.

 

Click on the "Scan" button and name the project you wish to scan. If you are outdoors, you can enable the GPS; however, this feature is not available indoors. We typically recommend selecting "Continuous" scanning. Upon first turning on the device, the system will automatically synchronize the camera and laser for approximately 30 seconds. Once this synchronization is complete, the “Scan” button at the bottom will turn blue. Click this button to officially begin scanning.

 

During the acquisition process, the four-directional camera will automatically capture images at a resolution of 4000x3000 pixels, at a rate of one photo per second. Throughout the scanning process, the collected laser point cloud and camera view information will be displayed in real-time. The three images at the top of the screen represent different viewing angles of the point cloud, which can be toggled by the user: first-person view, bird's-eye view, and 45-degree overhead view. The timer in the red area at the bottom of the screen indicates the duration of the data collection.

 

Hold the Eagle LiDAR scanner steady along the area you wish to scan, maintaining a constant speed. After data collection is complete, point the camera back toward the initial starting point. You do not need to physically walk back; simply ensure the camera is aimed at the starting position. A display of 0°  indicates that you have returned to the starting point. This process is what we previously referred to as the "Closed Loop". Once the closed loop is complete, click the time button to end the scan, and finally, click the “Save” button to finalize your project.