What is the difference between 2D and 3D LiDAR?

2D LiDAR scans a single horizontal plane to measure distance, while 3D LiDAR captures multiple planes of data to create a volumetric representation of the environment.

When should 2D LiDAR be used?

2D LiDAR is commonly used for navigation, obstacle detection, and area monitoring in robotics and industrial automation systems.

When should 3D LiDAR be used?

3D LiDAR is used when applications require detailed environmental modeling, complex object recognition, or advanced autonomous navigation.

Laser Distance Sensor Solutions for Industrial Measurement and Positioning

Hokuyo laser distance sensors provide accurate, non-contact distance measurement for industrial automation applications including positioning, collision avoidance, level monitoring, and long-distance measurement.

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What Is a Laser Distance Sensor?

A laser distance sensor is a non-contact measurement device used to determine the distance between the sensor and a target. In industrial environments, laser distance sensors are selected when accurate distance data is needed for equipment positioning, collision avoidance, level monitoring, or process control.

Hokuyo laser distance sensors are designed for indoor and outdoor industrial measurement applications where reliable sensing, durable performance, and precise distance feedback are essential.

For a broader comparison of Hokuyo sensing technologies, visit the Industrial Sensors pillar page.

Laser Distance Sensor Applications

Crane Positioning

Laser distance sensors can support overhead crane, gantry crane, and material handling applications where accurate position feedback is required.

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Collision Avoidance

Distance measurement can help equipment detect relative position and maintain safer operating distances in industrial environments.

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Level and Distance Monitoring

Laser distance sensors can measure to natural surfaces, reflectors, or liquids, supporting level monitoring and distance-setting trigger points.

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When to Use a Laser Distance Sensor

A laser distance sensor is often the right choice when the primary requirement is precise, non-contact measurement to a defined target. Unlike a scanning LiDAR sensor, which is commonly used for area awareness and obstacle detection, a laser distance sensor is typically selected for direct measurement, positioning, monitoring, or trigger-point applications.

Requirement	Why a Laser Distance Sensor Fits	Example Application
Precise distance measurement	Provides non-contact measurement between the sensor and target	Positioning a crane, carriage, or moving platform
Measurement to varied surfaces	Can support measurement to natural surfaces, reflectors, or liquids depending on the application	Level monitoring or industrial process measurement
Distance-setting trigger points	Can support output-based monitoring or switching based on distance thresholds	Equipment positioning, collision avoidance, process control

Laser Distance Sensor vs. LiDAR Sensor

A laser distance sensor is typically used for precise measurement to a specific target or surface. A LiDAR sensor is typically used when the application requires scanning coverage, area monitoring, mapping, localization, or obstacle detection across a field of view.

Choose a Laser Distance Sensor When You Need:

Direct non-contact distance measurement
Position feedback
Long-distance measurement
Measurement to reflectors, liquids, or natural surfaces
Distance-based trigger points

Choose a LiDAR Sensor When You Need:

Scanning coverage
Obstacle detection
Area monitoring
AMR or AGV navigation support
Spatial recognition or mapping

Featured Laser Distance Sensor Product

PGL Series Laser Distance Sensor

The PGL Series is designed for demanding industrial indoor and outdoor measurement applications, including overhead and gantry crane positioning, loop control, and long-distance measurement to suitable targets.

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Related Laser Distance Sensor Resources

Laser Distance Sensor FAQ

What is a laser distance sensor used for?

A laser distance sensor is used for non-contact distance measurement, equipment positioning, collision avoidance, level monitoring, distance-setting trigger points, and industrial process measurement.

What is the difference between a laser distance sensor and a LiDAR sensor?

A laser distance sensor is generally used for direct distance measurement to a target or surface. A LiDAR sensor is generally used for scanning, area monitoring, mapping, localization, and obstacle detection across a field of view.

Can laser distance sensors be used outdoors?

Hokuyo laser distance sensors are designed for industrial measurement applications, including indoor and outdoor use depending on the model, target, range, and environmental conditions.

What targets can a laser distance sensor measure?

Depending on the application and sensor model, laser distance sensors can measure to suitable targets such as natural surfaces, reflectors, or liquids.

Need Help Choosing a Laser Distance Sensor?

Hokuyo USA can help evaluate your distance measurement, positioning, crane, collision avoidance, or monitoring requirements.

Contact Hokuyo USA to discuss your laser distance sensor application.