Voyant Photonics, developers of LiDAR-on-a-chip solutions for 3D sensing, have announced the availability of CARBON, a Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) LiDAR sensor featuring a highly integrated silicon photonic chip.
4D Capabilities with Instant Velocity Detection
CARBON offers millimeter-level precision, object detection, and dynamic segmentation up to 200 meters at a fraction of the cost of current best-in-class LiDAR systems. The compact, fingernail-sized chip delivers high resolution and affordability by integrating optics onto a LiDAR photonic integrated circuit (PIC), designed to enhance machine perception in industrial, robotics, and security applications.
CARBON employs FMCW technology, enabling instant velocity measurement at every point in addition to traditional distance, reflectivity, and intensity data. This “4D” capability produces high-fidelity point cloud data with unmatched accuracy, providing a real-time environmental view at up to 20 frames per second. Instant velocity detection also supports vehicle ego-positioning in GPS-denied environments, potentially replacing high-end inertial measurement units (IMUs).
Performance in Challenging Conditions
Per the company, CARBON outperforms traditional Time of Flight (ToF) LiDAR by operating effectively in adverse weather conditions, such as dust, fog, rain, and snow. It is immune to sunlight interference, including during sunrise and sunset, and remains unaffected by retroreflective objects like traffic signs, cones, and safety vests.
Despite its compact size and light weight of 250g, CARBON is built for durability, offering IP67 dust and water protection and strong resistance to shock and vibration. Its low-power FMCW laser technology ensures eye safety.
High-Resolution, Wide-Angle Coverage
With a native resolution of 128 lines per frame, CARBON delivers camera-level resolution and precise tracking of moving objects up to 200 meters away. The sensor’s field of view is 45° vertical and 90° horizontal, with a maximum detectable radial velocity of 63 m/s (140 mph). The software-defined LiDAR (SDL) allows for customizable frame rates and adjustable fields of view during operation, enabling a focus on zones of interest and enhanced detection of small objects. CARBON LiDAR is now available for order at $1,490 per unit, with volume pricing and a two-year warranty.
About Voyant Photonics
Voyant Photonics develops LiDAR-on-a-chip solutions for 3D sensing, providing competitive performance in compact, lightweight, and power-efficient designs. Founded in 2018 by researchers from Cornell and Columbia universities, Voyant leverages patented nano-optic technologies to create imaging sensors for autonomous vehicles, drones, robotics, and industrial applications. With over $20 million in funding, Voyant is headquartered in New York City.
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Source/Photo Credit: Voyant Photonics
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