NCJ Number
229178
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 36 Issue: 10 Dated: October 2009 Pages: 60,62-64,66,67
Date Published
October 2009
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article explains and promotes the use of laser devices, also known as LIDAR (light detection and ranging), in order to provide quicker and more accurate isolation and citation of speeders on highways and streets, particularly in high-density traffic.
Abstract
The latest innovation in LIDAR speed detection technology involves incorporating video in a laser system in order to provide a complete sequence of video-recorded speeding incidents while creating a high-resolution image that identifies vehicle make, model, license plate number, and facial characteristics of the driver. Laser Technology Inc. (LTI) of Centennial, CO, will unveil such a device in its LTI 20-20 TruCAM. A Dual Speed Mode automatically differentiates between cars and commercial vehicles, applying the correct preset speed limit. A Distance Between Cars (DBC) Mode can be added to TruCAM for "following too closely" violations. DBC mode measures speed, traveling time, and distance between two vehicles. TruCAM also feeds statistical data into any geographic information system. The built-in GPS (global positioning system) can automatically generate location-based information every time the TruCAM is used. Advocates of LIDAR envision the time when officers will only have to show video evidence of a traffic violation rather than having to testify at length. Radar guns direct an electromagnetic (microwave) signal at a specified vehicle, picking up the return signal off of the vehicle, comparing it with the frequency of the original signal to calculate the speed of the target vehicle. LIDAR, on the other hand, uses a time/distance calculation to measure speed. When a user aims a laser speed gun's narrow beam of light at the target vehicle, speed is measured by the time it takes to receive the reflected light. Both radar and LIDAR have defined though separate roles. LIDAR is best suited for detecting speeders in high-density traffic.