Laser Radar Innovation Enhances Precision Across Industries

2025-04-21 photonics

Seoul, Monday, 21 April 2025.
Professor Lee Jeong-dong’s successful test of photonic radar using laser technology at Seoul National University promises enhanced precision for applications in automotive, environmental monitoring, and more.

Photonics: Revolutionizing Radar Systems

Seoul National University, under the leadership of Professor Lee Jeong-dong, has made significant progress in the field of photonics, particularly in laser radar technology, also known as LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging). This advancement promises to revolutionize several industries, including automotive and environmental monitoring, by enhancing precision through the use of laser light instead of traditional radar technologies, which primarily rely on radio waves. Professor Lee’s team focuses on leveraging photonic technology to improve detection accuracy, which is crucial in the development of autonomous driving technologies and precision mapping for environmental studies [2][5].

How Photonic Radar Works

The core principle of photonic radar lies in its use of laser light to measure distances and create high-resolution images of the surrounding environment. This method offers several benefits over conventional radio-wave radar systems, including higher precision and the ability to function in complex environments like urban landscapes. Utilizing technologies such as Time of Flight (ToF) and Phase Shift methods, LiDAR systems can capture 3D data with remarkable accuracy, making them indispensable in fields ranging from surveying to robotics [3][5].

Applications and Industry Impact

The integration of photonic radar technology is seen as a breakthrough for sectors that require high precision and reliability. In the automotive industry, for example, the use of LiDAR systems can significantly enhance Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), providing better situational awareness and improving safety for autonomous vehicles. In environmental monitoring, these systems are crucial for mapping and assessing areas vulnerable to natural disasters, offering data critical for urban planning and disaster response [3][5].

Future Prospects and Industry Collaboration

Seoul National University’s collaboration with industry partners aims to push the boundaries of photonics technology further. With an investment of approximately $5 million allocated for ongoing research, Professor Lee’s team is poised to develop integrated solutions that meet the precision demands of future technologies. The advancements in laser radar not only set new standards for precision but also open up possibilities for future applications in fields such as quantum computing and advanced telecommunications [5][6].

Bronnen

Photonic technology Laser radar