Camera vs laser mapping technology

[piokrza]

Here, I would like to gather opinions for and against these two mapping technologies. From manual for Philips HomeRun I learn that it can't work in dark room. I wonder if the Neato XV-11 can work at night? Moreover, I think that camera mapping technology consumes more power than laser. What you think about that? Any comments are welcomed.

[Fraggboy]

Since we know the XV-11 uses laser mapping, it will bounce off objects in the dark.

Like you said, camera mapping is limited due to it needing to 'see'. Turn off the lights, and it can't see. Granted, one can use infrared camera, but that will increase the price.

IMHO, laser mapping hands down! I know there are some disadvantages of laser mapping, but I still prefer it.

[gozkil]

laser range finder will definitely consume more power than a camera. (because of the spinning motor)
xv-11 has its own infrared light source (laser) that is invisible to human eye.
if phillips engineers are smart, they should also use IR illumination along with a band-passfilter.

in theory visual mapping can be quite powerful (and better than lrf), but i dont see it happening in the near future.

[Jimson]

Yeah...from the vids I've seen. Laser seems to be better for detecting obstacles etc. Would mean that the Neato would never get stuck in a corner somewhere right?

[Fraggboy]

Would mean that the Neato would never get stuck in a corner somewhere right?

Technically, yes. The Neato maps the surroundings, so it knows where to 'escape'.