Volume Monitoring

Blickfeld’s Volume Monitoring solution based on unique 3D LiDAR technology enables a host of applications, such as stockpile monitoring, silo level sensing, and various other application scenarios. Blickfeld’s high-resolution 3D-LiDAR sensors continuously collect data and produce point clouds that map the sensor environment in 3D. The associated on-device software Percept analyzes this data on-device and outputs exact volume information on-demand.

Percept employs various detection zones to apply specific algorithms within areas of interest in the point cloud. These zones can monitor volumes, such as piles within a designated area.

As Blickfeld’s 3D LiDAR sensors are optical measurement devices, dust on the front screen can reduce its performance. If the device is deployed in a harsh environment (e.g. very dusty conditions) it is recommended to remove dust and heavier dirt from the front screen on a regular basis.

A proper mounting position and the correct number of LiDAR devices are crucial for reliable results.

If object occlusion or obstacles within the field of view are expected, consider adjusting the mounting position or adding more LiDAR sensors from different angles. Occlusion can significantly impact system performance.

During and shortly after the operation of the device, the Cube itself and the mounting surface can become very hot. This is common, however, it can potentially cause skin burns. In order to avoid any injury or burns, the device should be allowed sufficient time to cool down before being touched.

Volume Monitoring zone

The Volume Monitoring zone offers a method to monitor volume within a specific area. Alignment of the point cloud on the XY plane is essential for reliable functioning of this zone. Grid resolution can be specified for volume calculations, affecting the accuracy of the result. Smaller grids provide higher accuracy but at a higher processing cost. Larger zones may benefit from a higher resolution, while the default resolution is sufficient for most cases.

A grid resolution smaller than the point-to-point distance in the point cloud won’t enhance accuracy.

Taring the volume zone allows subtraction of a specific value from the total volume, useful for removing unintended objects or walls from measurements. Negative volumes can also be measured.

Grid resolution per tile is in meters, and volume is measured in cubic meters.