From IoT (Internet-of-Things) to AoT (Autonomy-of-Things)

IoT dealt with smart machines communicating data to each other, and was enabled by advances in semiconductor technology, WiFi and cloud computing. It enabled the control and remote operation of static machines. AoT is enabled by similar technological advances, the goal being to automate the movement of things — including robots, drones and vehicles (terrestrial, abovewater, underwater and outer space). One key enabler for AoT is perception and a clear understanding of the environment around these autonomous systems. In most cases, 3D imaging, and LiDAR are critical for creating accurate and low latency perception maps of the environment. This talk will focus on the state of LiDAR for AoT — including the ecosystem, the players, the technologies, and product readiness.