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Extreme Condition 3D LiDAR Obstacle Detection

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Neptec OPAL LiDAR scanner on a tripod in front of a mining haul truck

An Inside Glimpse Into the Development of Neptec's 3D LiDAR Sensor

Electronic Design Concept

Background & Design Requirements

Neptec reached out to Design 1st to integrate their custom PCBs and 3D LiDAR technology into a rugged housing that would withstand the world’s harshest working environments during operation. Design requirements included:

  • 360 visual field of view for 3D LiDAR sensors.
  • Volume production ready design in ten months
  • Build a full functional alpha prototype for testing
Functional Prototype Early Stage Lab Test

Engineering Challenges

Implementing Design 1st’s proven process, the team was able to overcome several obstacles to:

  • Create fast prototype mock-ups to identify fit, function, and form issues early on.
  • Build 3D virtual model "digital twin" of device for FEA simulations on design concepts to review any thermal issues with air flow and internal heat.
  • Create bench-model engineering prototype for Neptec to run early-stage lab testing
Simulations of FOV on Machine Mounting Locations

Project Results

Through creativity and technical understanding, the Design 1st team developed Neptec’s flagship product:

  • Neptec Design Group was acquired by Maxar Technologies in 2018 for $42 Million.
  • Achieved rapid turnaround from concept to production units for in-field testing and use in thirteen months.
  • The design passed all regulatory certifications and remains the most rugged 3D LiDAR devices in the industry
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Play video: Neptec Acquired by Maxar Technologies for $42 Million

Neptec Acquired by Maxar Technologies for $42 Million

“We needed an up and running engineering team and we needed them right away. We found that Design 1st had a lot of interesting ideas and paths that we probably wouldn’t have thought of because they have rugged electronics experience.”

Derek Butler Director of Engineering, Neptec Technologies

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