PrinciPLes of oPeration

HDL-64E S2 and S2.1 User’s Manual

The sensor operates, instead of a single laser firing through a rotating mirror, with 64 lasers fixed mounted on upper and lower laser blocks, each housing 32 lasers. Both laser blocks rotate as a single unit. With this design each of the lasers fires tens of thousands of times per second, providing exponentially more data points/second and a more data-intensive point cloud than a rotating mirror design. The sensor delivers a 360° horizontal Field of View (HFOV) and a 26.8° vertical FOV (31.5° VFOV for the S2.1).

Additionally, state-of-the-art digital signal processing and waveform analysis are employed to provide high accuracy, extended distance sensing and intensity data. The sensor is rated to provide usable returns up to 120 meters. The sensor employs a direct drive motor system with no belts or chains in the drive train.

See the specifications at the end of this manual for more information about sensor operating conditions.

Laser

Emitters

(Groups of 16)

Laser

Receivers

(Groups of 32)

Motor

Housing

Figure 1. HDL-64E S2 design overview.

Housing

(Entire unit spins

at 5-20 Hz)

[ 2 ]

HDL-64E S2, HDL-64E S2.1 specifications

The Velodyne Acoustics HDL-64E S2.1 and HDL-64E S2 represent cutting-edge advancements in Lidar technology, specifically designed for autonomous vehicle navigation and mapping applications. These high-definition lidar sensors are acclaimed for their precision, reliability, and robustness, making them indispensable tools in various industries, from robotics to transportation.

One of the defining features of the HDL-64E series is its 64 laser channels, which allow for high-resolution 3D mapping of the environment. This multi-channel design significantly improves the sensor's ability to capture fine details in the surrounding area, providing a complete spatial representation necessary for autonomous driving. The HDL-64E S2.1 and S2 can generate dense point clouds with over 1.3 million points per second, facilitating real-time data acquisition and processing capabilities.

The HDL-64E series employs advanced technologies for optimal performance. Its 360-degree horizontal field of view and a vertical field of view ranging from -15 to +15 degrees allow the sensors to detect and classify objects in a comprehensive manner. This feature is crucial for ensuring the safety and efficacy of autonomous vehicles, as it enables them to perceive their surroundings from multiple angles.

In terms of accuracy, the HDL-64E models boast a measurement range of up to 120 meters, with an accuracy of ±2 centimeters. This level of precision ensures that autonomous systems can make informed decisions based on reliable data, essential for avoiding obstacles and navigating complex environments.

The sensors are designed to operate effectively in a range of environmental conditions. With IP67-rated waterproofing and robustness against dust and debris, the HDL-64E S2.1 and S2 are built to withstand challenging operating environments, thus ensuring continuous, dependable performance.

Integration of the HDL-64E series into existing systems is streamlined, thanks to its advanced Ethernet interface. This functionality makes it easier for developers to incorporate the Lidar data into existing software frameworks, enhancing the usability of the sensor in various applications.

In summary, the Velodyne Acoustics HDL-64E S2.1 and HDL-64E S2 represent a significant leap forward in Lidar technology, featuring high-resolution mapping, advanced detection capabilities, and rugged design. These characteristics make them an ideal choice for companies looking to implement reliable and precise sensing solutions in their autonomous systems.

Velodyne Acoustics HDL-64E S2.1 user manual PrinciPLes of oPeration, HDL-64E S2 design overview

Models: HDL-64E S2 HDL-64E S2.1