Using LiDAR for Smart City Planning
First developed in the 1970s, LiDAR technology has come a long way in just 40 years. Laser Imaging Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) can analyze a cloud of data points to help design smart cities today.
More than just your average city, “Smart Cities” use information and communication technologies to function in a more efficient and streamlined way. These “self-aware” cities conserve energy and care for the environment, all while creating a vibrant urban economy for the citizens in that location.
How LiDAR Can Be Used in Smart Cities
LiDAR can be a great asset for urban city planning. With its ability to examine and analyze an enormous amount of data, the technology can be used to create urban environments and improve designs in a way that functions better for its citizens.
- Increase walkability and pedestrian safety
LiDAR can track pedestrians in real-time to control traffic control devices appropriately. It can also examine how people are currently walking so city planners and officials can make adjustments to add crosswalks, crossing lights, or other safety measures. Once planners know how people are behaving in a current environment, they can adjust to make the area safer and more efficient.
- Get accurate topography for planning and design
Long before anyone breaks ground in a particular area, LiDAR can examine the topography of the land to plan around (and with) natural resources and existing features. Understanding this information allows for better planning and design.
Topography analysis when it comes to water can help address concerns with flooding or water management in an area. It can also be used to examine the best locations to place clean energy sources like solar panels or wind turbines.
- Prepare for efficient emergency response planning
LiDAR can also provide valuable information for emergency response planning. By examining building placement, traffic congestion, and locations of first responders, city officials can determine whether their current emergency services are adequate or if there can be additional improvements.
The use and application of LiDAR technologies can help cities be leaps and bounds more efficient than they already are — and ACI Corporation can help. Contact us today for more information about how LiDAR technologies can improve your community.