Benewake Launches NOVA20 LiDAR for Robot Near-Field Safety
Benewake has introduced the NOVA20 solid-state LiDAR sensor to enhance robot safety at close range. The device addresses limitations in current robot sensor systems for near-field perception.
Benewake has officially launched the NOVA20, a solid-state multi-point LiDAR sensor designed for robotic platforms.
The new sensor aims to improve safety for robots operating in close proximity. Many current robotic systems, particularly those using conventional 360-degree spinning LiDAR, face limitations in detecting obstacles within close range, typically under one meter. Camera-based systems can also be affected by lighting conditions and physical obstructions.
NOVA20 features a 20-point detection array with a 40-degree field of view, providing distance sensing from 0.05 to 1 meter. The sensor is compact, weighing less than 5 grams and consuming less than 1 watt of power, allowing for flexible deployment on various robot components.
According to Benewake, the NOVA20 is suitable for applications such as lateral edge-following for autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), navigating narrow passages, and detecting drop-offs like stairs. It can also contribute to human-robot interaction safety by enabling preemptive deceleration.
Founded in 2015, Benewake specializes in LiDAR technology and physical-world AI perception. The company states it has delivered over three million units globally.