Velodyne Lidar introduces solid state sensor for autonomous mobile robotics and last-mile delivery

Velodyne Lidar, Inc. announced the Velarray M1600, a solid-state lidar sensor. The sensor is the latest in a new line of Velarray products and the first within the new M-series. It’s built using Velodyne’s proprietary micro-lidar array architecture (MLA) and leverages Velodyne’s manufacturing partnerships for cost optimization and high-volume production.

The Velarray M1600 enables touchless mobile and last-mile delivery robots to operate autonomously and safely, without human intervention.

The Velarray M1600 provides autonomous robots with outstanding near-field perception up to 30 meters and a broad 32-degree vertical field of view, allowing them to traverse unstructured and changing environments. The sensor enables robots to securely navigate crowded urban areas and corridors for delivery and security applications. Other environments during which the Velarray M1600 will enable autonomous mobile robot operation include warehouses, retail centers, industrial plants, and medical facilities. For customers seeking a perception solution package, Velodyne provides Vella software, which utilizes Velarray M1600 data for object and hazard detection, to guard roadway users including pedestrians, bicyclists, and pets.

Designed for functional safety and sturdiness, the Velarray M1600 supports autonomous mobile robots during a big variety of challenging environmental conditions, including temperature, lighting, and precipitation. Featuring a compact form factor, the sensor is well-suited for external mounting but can also be easily embedded into robotics systems.