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November 19, 2025
Previously, we explored how LiDAR technology paired with smart software leverages 3D digital twins that aid in detecting movement and security breaches. LiDAR emits laser pulses and records their reflections to create accurate 3D maps. While it is highly effective for perimeter security, its applications extend beyond just security uses.
One of the key contributions of LiDAR in security lies in its ability to distinguish between actual threats and benign movements — such as those caused by animals or weather conditions. This precision significantly reduces false alarms, ensuring resources are directed only toward genuine incidents. The reliability of this technology makes it valuable for safety applications. 2D LiDAR was first used in manufacturing in the early 2000s, mainly for collision avoidance in the automotive industry. Today, 2D LiDAR is widely implemented across various manufacturing environments, including robotics, logistics and general plant operations.
Beyond manufacturing plants, the automotive industry was once again a major driver for cost-effective 3D LiDAR systems. The integration with intelligent management software and combination with video systems have now enabled a broader range of LiDAR applications in safety-related areas. An illustrative instance is rail networks, where unauthorized entry onto tracks and into tunnels poses significant safety hazards.
Imagine a setting where security at train stations isn’t just monitored but completely reimagined — this is precisely what 3D LiDAR makes possible. The innovative combination of video cameras and highly precise 3D LiDAR sensors brings an entirely new dimension to surveillance at train, tram and railway stations. With digital twin technology and advanced simulation tools, monitoring areas can be planned down to the smallest detail, blind spots identified early and the detection of varied object sizes optimized.
Anyone who has witnessed how reliably 3D LiDAR detects people on the tracks knows: the era of error-prone radar and video analysis is over! The system is so sensitive that false alarms are drastically reduced — especially where speed and accuracy matter most. Whether on the platform, in tunnels or supporting autonomous train operations: vehicles are reliably ignored, while people in hazardous zones are instantly detected and alarms triggered.
Optimized systems enable the precise measurement of distances to objects surrounding a vehicle, maintaining high accuracy even when visibility is compromised. This technology also allows for the reliable identification of individuals or items located within potentially dangerous zones, such as track areas or railway lines. Furthermore, when LiDAR is integrated with cameras or radar, it enhances object recognition capabilities, allowing for better classification and the determination of an object’s direction of movement.
3D technology helps create digital twins and enhances situational awareness by providing better overviews, additional security layers, fewer false alarms and seamless handover of persons and objects between sensors like cameras or LiDAR. The possibilities for individual adjustment are impressive. Detection and pre-alarm zones can be configured precisely, ensuring only relevant events are reported and immediate action can be taken when necessary.
Such systems offer extra security and safety to protect tunnels, where video-based technology would fail because of poor lighting conditions and high contrasts. While 2D systems offer a basic level of protection, they can’t distinguish between object types, causing high false alarm rates. High-tech 3D systems are the perfect solution here and can be combined with video cameras outside the tunnel and intelligent software to create a digital twin and track every movement. They leave operators enough time to react or create automatic reactions like automated IP speaker announcements to warn people in time. Integration with access control devices ensures only unauthorized access triggers an alarm — authorized personnel are reliably excluded. The result is an intelligent, flexible safety and security solution that meets the demands of modern transportation companies in every way. 3D LiDAR systems are already in use at multiple operators, proving every day: advanced technology protects lives and makes public transport safer than ever. More precision, fewer false alarms and maximum safety for everyone is the future.
Beyond security and safety, LiDAR’s detailed mapping capabilities also assist in the modernization of transport networks. By feeding data into information systems, LiDAR enables smarter decision-making around maintenance, traffic flow and emergency response. This holistic approach not only protects lives and property, but also ensures the sustainable and efficient operation of the entire transport system.
HxGN dC3 LidarVision is an award-winning, AI-assisted advanced 3D surveillance software solution based on volumetric detection technology. It uses modern 3D LiDAR sensors to visualize threats in a digital twin and is revolutionizing physical security surveillance. It has a proven track record in public transportation projects where the system monitors entire passenger areas, tracks and tunnels. The HxGN dC3 Designer tool offers advanced camera planning, providing simulated views for accurate placement and testing with virtual intruders to assess detection effectiveness. The modular system integrates perfectly with Hexagon’s advanced video management software, HxGN dC3 Video, and industry-leading computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system, HxGN OnCall Dispatch, to manage vast amounts of sensor data and optimize dispatch operations.
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Andreas Conrad is the vice president of marketing, physical security, for Hexagon’s Safety, Infrastructure & Geospatial division. With more than 20 years’ experience, Andreas is an expert in physical security software technology applications and leads a global team of dedicated product professionals.
