Velodyne has announced the Velarray M1600, a new solid-state LiDAR sensor designed for autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) and last-mile delivery systems. Velodyne built the M1600 using its proprietary micro-LiDAR array architecture, or MLA, and manufacturing partnerships for cost optimization and high-volume production.

The Velarray M1600 can enable mobile robots to operate autonomously and safely, without human intervention. Designed for functional safety and durability, the Velarray M1600 supports AMRs in a wide variety of challenging environmental conditions, including temperature, lighting, and precipitation. “Featuring a compact form factor, the sensor is well-suited for external mounting but also can be easily embedded into robotics systems,” said Velodyne.

The Velarray M1600 provides near-field perception up to 30 meters and a broad 32-degree vertical field of view to allow AMRs to traverse unstructured and changing environments at a walking pace. The sensor is designed to enable robots to safely navigate crowded sidewalks and corridors for delivery and security applications.

Other environments in which AMRs can use the Velarray M1600 include warehouses, retail centers, industrial plants, and medical facilities. For customers seeking a perception package, Velodyne offers the Vella software, which uses Velarray M1600 data for object and hazard detection, to protect roadway users including pedestrians, bicyclists, and pets.

In addition, a Robot Operating System (ROS) driver is available for the Velarray M1600, providing a user-friendly interface for developers, said Velodyne. It noted that the sensor has modest power demands, so robots can operate longer between battery charges.

“The Velarray M1600 lidar sensor is the latest proof point for Velodyne’s innovation track record,” stated Anand Gopalan, CEO of Velodyne Lidar. “The sensor was designed for high-volume mobile robotic applications, with direct input from robotics and last-mile delivery customers.”

“This durable and compact sensor can be deployed in a wide variety of environments and weather conditions allowing nearly 365-day, 24/7 usage,” he said. “It can provide the smart, real-time perception data required by autonomous mobile robots for safe and extended operation without human intervention.”

Velodyne also offers a whitepaper on “The Benefits of 3D Lidar for Autonomous Mobile Robots.” The company said samples will be available to qualified customers with a lead time of approximately six to eight weeks.