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2D LiDAR Technology Guide
2D LiDAR Sensors: How They Work, Applications & Selection
A 2D LiDAR sensor measures distances across a scanning plane to create a profile of surrounding objects. Learn how scan data is generated, what specifications matter and how to select a sensor for industrial automation, robotics or interactive applications.
Laser distance measurementAngular resolution & scan frequencyRaw data & switching output
Conceptual illustration · not to scale or model-specific
01 · Measurement Principles
How Does a 2D LiDAR Sensor Work?
A 2D laser scanner repeatedly measures points over a defined angular field. Each valid measurement associates a distance with a scanning direction, creating a two-dimensional representation of objects intersecting the scan plane.
Scan a Plane
The sensor sweeps its laser beam through a horizontal or otherwise mounted plane. Objects outside that plane are not directly measured.
Acquire Distance & Angle
The device measures the distance to returned reflections and associates points with their corresponding scan angles.
Interpret the Point Data
A PLC, controller or software system uses the available output to detect objects, estimate positions, recognize contours or support mapping.
From polar scan points to XY coordinates: For a measurement at distance r and angle θ, software can calculate x = r cos θ and y = r sin θ in the sensor’s coordinate frame. Localization, object tracking and navigation require additional software processing; the LiDAR alone does not perform every function.
02 · Key Specifications
The Specifications That Affect Real-World Detection
Working range is only one part of sensor selection. Angular resolution, scan frequency, target reflectivity and installation geometry determine how useful the measurement will be in your application.
Measuring Range
Check the sensing distance at the target’s actual reflectivity. A nominal range specified at 70% reflectivity may not apply to black, dark or low-reflectivity surfaces.
Angular Resolution
A smaller angular step produces more closely spaced samples at the same distance. Approximate lateral point spacing is distance × angle in radians; it does not guarantee the detection of every small object.
Scan Frequency
Scan frequency is the number of complete scans per second. A higher rate offers more frequent scene updates; available angular-resolution and frequency combinations depend on the model.
Field of View
The scanning angle and mounting direction must cover the intended area. Machine frames, enclosures and other structures may block the beam.
Output Type
Switching outputs communicate detection states, while raw-data models provide scan points for external processing. Select according to what the host system actually needs.
Operating Conditions
Consider ambient light, dust, temperature, vibration, window contamination, target material and mounting stability during evaluation.
YB27 example: The CCH YB27 family includes models with nominal ranges up to 40 m at 70% reflectivity, a 270° scan field and selectable combinations of scanning frequency and angular resolution. Always check the exact model datasheet for supported combinations and measurement conditions.
03 · Applications
Where Industrial 2D LiDAR Is Used
2D LiDAR is used where a single-point sensor cannot provide enough spatial coverage. The application determines whether detection states or raw scan data are needed.
AGV & AMR
Raw scan points can support localization, mapping and obstacle perception when integrated into suitable robot software. Personnel safety functions may require a separate safety-rated scanner.
Industrial Automation
Distance measurement, object presence, position sensing, docking, alignment and profile monitoring around automated equipment.
Interactive Floors & Walls
Planar scan data can provide position-based input for interactive projection and touchless experiences when suitable tracking software is used.
Interactive LiDAR applications →For interactive projects, test real detection performance with the installation height, target size, surface reflectivity and software processing required. See the interactive floor application guide →
04 · Engineering Selection
How to Choose a 2D LiDAR Sensor
Start with the job the sensor must perform, then confirm the output interface, range and scan performance. Choosing a sensor by its maximum range alone can lead to poor results.
| Selection factor | Key question | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Detection, measurement, localization or interaction? | Determines whether switching output or raw scan points are needed. |
| Distance & target | Minimum/maximum distance and target reflectivity? | Nominal range may differ significantly from performance on difficult surfaces. |
| Angular resolution | How small are the relevant details at working distance? | Point spacing increases with distance; finer angular sampling can improve spatial detail. |
| Scan frequency | How quickly do objects or the robot move? | Updates and processing latency affect dynamic perception and control. |
| Scan geometry | Where is the scanner mounted, and what must be covered? | Objects must intersect an unobstructed scan plane. |
| Interface & software | PLC, IPC, embedded controller, ROS or third-party software? | Confirm output format, communication protocol and available development tools. |
05 · Data & Interfaces
Understanding Switching, Raw Data & Combined Outputs
A sensor’s output determines how it fits into a control architecture. Do not confuse a detection signal with a complete scan-point stream.
Detection Output
Selected YB27 switching-output models supply PNP/NPN signals for detection-oriented control logic. They do not deliver the raw scan points required for SLAM.
Sensor → Switching signal → PLC / Controller
Scan-Point Data
Model-dependent Ethernet UDP or serial raw-data interfaces deliver distance and angle measurements for software interpretation, mapping or tracking.
Sensor → Scan data → IPC / Robot software
Signals + Scan Data
Selected combined-output models support both detection signals and scan-data integration. Confirm the exact interface combination and pinout before selection.
Sensor → Control signals + scan data
Integration clarification: Raw measurements enable downstream functions, but SLAM, object classification and gesture tracking must be implemented by a compatible host system. Interface and SDK support are model-specific.
06 · Installation & Evaluation
What to Verify Before Integration
Laboratory specifications should be validated in the actual machine or installation. Mounting geometry and host-system handling can matter as much as the LiDAR itself.
Scan Plane & Mounting
Confirm the scan height, orientation, stable mounting surface, mechanical clearance and any objects that may obstruct the scanning plane.
Power, Interface & Cabling
Check supply voltage, connector pinout, communication interface, cable routing and network or serial configuration for the selected model.
Target & Environment
Evaluate the smallest relevant target at maximum required distance under realistic lighting, reflectivity and contamination conditions.
Software & Coordinate Frames
For ROS, robot navigation and interactive systems, confirm driver compatibility, time handling and coordinate transformations before field deployment.
Personnel safety: Standard YB industrial LiDAR is not a safety-rated device for protective stopping or personnel safeguarding. Use an appropriately rated safety laser scanner where required by the machine risk assessment.
07 · Next Steps
Product Models, Documentation & Application Guides
This page explains the technology. Use the resources below for current CCH model specifications, integration materials and application examples.
YB27 Series
Compare available YB27 models, ranges and output variants.
Explore YB27 Series →Download Center
Access available datasheets, manuals, YB Assistant, ROS drivers, CAD and compliance files.
Browse technical downloads →Interactive LiDAR Guides
Explore LiDAR-based interactive wall and floor applications.
Explore application guides →08 · Technical FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About 2D LiDAR
What is the difference between 2D LiDAR and 3D LiDAR?
2D LiDAR measures points within a scanning plane, while 3D LiDAR captures spatial information across multiple elevation angles or a three-dimensional volume. Choose based on the geometry the application must observe.
What is the difference between angular resolution and scan frequency?
Angular resolution describes the angular spacing between adjacent measurements. Scan frequency describes how many complete scans are produced per second. A smaller angular increment increases spatial sampling density; a higher frequency produces more frequent updates. Available combinations vary by device.
Why does target reflectivity affect LiDAR range?
Dark, low-reflectivity, transparent or difficult surfaces may return less usable laser energy than high-reflectivity targets. A range rating at 70% reflectivity is not a guarantee of the same range on every material.
Can any 2D LiDAR be used for SLAM or AGV navigation?
No. Navigation and mapping systems generally require suitable scan-data output, software compatibility and adequate scan performance. YB27 switching-output-only models are not substitutes for raw-data models. Safety functions require a separate assessment.
How do I estimate point spacing at a given distance?
A useful small-angle approximation is distance multiplied by the angular step in radians. For example, at 5 m, a 0.3° step corresponds to roughly 26 mm between adjacent ray directions; actual detection depends on beam characteristics, target geometry and the sensor’s measurement behavior.
Where can I find YB27 drivers, protocol documentation and CAD files?
See the Download Center for published files. CCH can provide model-specific communication information and available integration resources for suitable projects. Confirm compatibility with the exact model you plan to use.
09 · Project Consultation
Need Help Selecting a 2D LiDAR?
Share your application, sensing distance, target size, required output, host system and environment. We can help identify a suitable YB27 configuration for evaluation.