RPLIDARC1 Emulator

Published: 25 September 2025| Version 1 | DOI: 10.17632/h42dy8j4h6.1
Contributor:
Liliana Palacios

Description

This project implements a RPLiDAR C1 sensor emulator using an Arduino Uno board. The emulator generates data that replicates the basic operation of a LiDAR sensor, allowing software testing, serial communication, and visualization without the need for the physical device. The system is designed to: Transmit emulated distance data through the Arduino Uno’s serial port, following a format similar to that used by the real LiDAR C1. Generate points with random distances and an incrementing angle, simulating the characteristic scanning behavior of a LiDAR. Configure basic parameters* (such as range, update frequency, and values generated either randomly or predefined) to reproduce different test scenarios. Facilitate integration and debugging in robotics projects, autonomous vehicles, or 2D/3D mapping systems, where communication and data processing need to be validated before having the real hardware. This emulator is especially useful for developers, students, and researchers who require a fast and cost-effective validation environment, ensuring compatibility with applications that typically rely on the LiDAR C1.

Files

Institutions

  • Instituto Politecnico Nacional

Categories

Software Engineering Enhancement

Licence