Environmental LIDAR Device Compliance Testing

All Light Detection And Ranging (LIDAR) devices not enclosed in an environmentally-controlled case must be tested to evaluate their ability to operate in extreme environments. As a certified environmental test lab, we realize the importance of Light Detection And Ranging device testing. Meeting the LIDAR environmental requirements can be difficult. We understand the challenges and guide companies through the process.

Keystone Compliance ensures that all your compliance needs are met under one roof. Our ISO 17025 accredited lab provides emergency immediate scheduling, constant communication, and assistance in the troubleshooting process. Additionally, we utilize more than 15 climatic chambers with sizes ranging up to 1,300 cubic feet and shakers up to 12 kip.

Ready to get started? Request a quote to receive testing services tailored to your specific requirements.

Please note: Keystone exclusively provides testing for radar manufacturers. Our lab does not provide customer LIDAR reports or information to unauthorized personnel.

If you have received a ticket from a speed-enforcing device, we have been instructed to direct all calls to the jurisdiction that issued the violation. Please contact the jurisdiction with any questions and/or concerns you may have.

Summary of LIDAR Environmental Compliance Testing

LIDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) devices measure the time of flight for the pulses reflected from moving vehicles. Next, the speed of the target vehicle is calculated and displayed. Lastly, the LIDAR device will automatically record images of the vehicles which exceed a specified speed.

The purpose of LIDAR device testing is to specify the minimum performance specifications for LIDAR devices used by law enforcement. Thus, the device is used to enforce speed regulations.

The environmental requirements for LIDAR device testing is described below.

Temperature Testing

Light Detection And Ranging devices must be able to properly operate within specified conditions. Generally, operating temperature conditions may range from -30° C (-22° F) to +60° C (+140° F). After testing the LIDAR device to the specifications above, the device must still be able to generate accurate speed readings.

Furthermore, the temperature conditions of a LIDAR device are measured with specialized equipment. The data is taken with thermometers separate from the sensor used to control the chamber temperature and humidity.

LIDAR Temperature Standard Testing Procedures

First, 3 speeds are chosen within the LIDAR device’s capability. The unit is then placed, with the power off, in an environmental chamber. Next, the chamber temperature is adjusted to a specified low temperature. Thermal equilibrium must then be achieved and maintained for 30 minutes.

For this test, frost is not an intended outcome. Thus, if frost occurs, reducing the ambient humidity is allowed.

The LIDAR device is then taken out of the chamber and connected to the standard supply voltage. Lastly, the unit is turned on, coupled with the simulator, and measured at the three chosen speeds previously noted at the beginning of this test procedure.

The high-temperature conformance test is then conducted the same day.

For more temperature testing standards, please follow the links below:

Humidity Testing

When LIDAR systems and devices are being used in the field, physical and chemical changes may occur. These changes may include surface effects such as oxidation and/or corrosion. Changes may also include electrical short circuits, fogging of optical surfaces, and thermal transfer characteristics.

Similar to temperature conditioning, humidity conditions of a LIDAR device are measured with specialized equipment. The data is taken with hygrometers separate from the sensor used to control the chamber temperature and humidity.

LIDAR Humidity Standard Testing Procedures

First, the unit under testing is placed in the humidity chamber with the power turned off. The relative humidity is adjusted to a minimum of 90% at 37° C. These conditions are maintained for at least 8 hours.

Next, the LIDAR unit is removed from the chamber and brought to the simulator. The unit is then connected to the standard supply voltage, and measurements are performed. Additionally, the LIDAR unit must meet specified requirements within 15 minutes of operation.

For more information on environmental humidity testing please follow the links below:

IP Code Testing

IEC 60529 IP Code testing evaluates electrical equipment resistance to ingress from particles such as dust and water. IP Codes range from IP0X to IPX9. The degree of protection provided by an enclosure is shown by the IP code in the following way:

The first digit ranges from 0 to 6. It is the ingress protection against solid bodies. In this case, 6 is the most resistant. This includes solid objects such as a hand, finger, sand, dust, etc.

The second digit ranges from 0 to 9. It is the ingress protection against liquids. In this case, 9 is the most resistant. Ingress testing may include protection from water jets, submersion, continuous immersion, etc. Various levels of ingress are permitted for each rating.

IEC 60529 Testing

Conditioning and Test Samples

Unless otherwise specified, IEC 60529 standard tests are carried out under conditions described in IEC 60068-1. These include:

Temperature: 15° C to 35° C.
Relative humidity: 25% to 75%
Air pressure: 86 kPa to 106 kPa

The IEC 60529 test samples must be in a clean and new condition. All of the parts must also be in place and mounted in accordance with the manufacturer.

Sometimes, testing the full-scale and complete equipment may be impractical. If so, representative parts or smaller equipment having the same design may be tested.

Compliance Testing Procedures

Protection from Solid Foreign Objects & Dust: There are various acceptance criteria for satisfactory ingress protection. This includes diverse sizes of rigid spheres, steel rods, and dust particles not passing through any opening of the electronic equipment.

Protection Against Water: Waterproofness ingress protection testing can include liquids of miscellaneous levels, volumes, and test durations. Different products must be immersion proof to different IP standard requirements. This includes the depth of submersion and time of exposure.

For more information on IP Code testing, please refer to the links below:

Expert LIDAR System Environmental Compliance Testing

Our team strives to give our customers more time and energy on product development instead of testing. In addition to environmental testing of electrical products, Keystone has a full scope of expertise including corrosion, reliability, altitude, and much more.

Have a question about environmental testing of Light Detection And Ranging (LIDAR) devices? Contact us or call (724) 657-9940 and we will determine the best course of action. Request a quote to see why so many companies partner with Keystone Compliance for their LIDAR system certification testing.