Light source sharing device and automobile

Abstract

The application provides a light source sharing device and a car, and belongs to the technical field of remote sensing. The device comprises a light source generating unit, a light source distribution network unit and a plurality of light source sharing devices. The light source generating unit is connected with the light source distribution network unit. The light source generating unit is used for generating light required by the plurality of light source sharing devices. The light source distribution network unit is connected with each light source sharing device and is used for distributing the light emitted by the light source generating unit into each light source sharing device. The car comprises the light source sharing device. The application can reduce the number of required light sources, thereby achieving the effect of reducing the cost.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of remote sensing, in particular to a light source sharing device and a vehicle. BACKGROUND

[0002] With the rise of automatic driving technology in recent years, the application of laser radar technology in automatic driving vehicles has also attracted much attention. Laser radar technology is a remote sensing technology for measuring distance. It mainly measures the relative distance of the target by irradiating the target with laser and analyzing the reflected light with a detector to calculate the time of the laser returning after encountering an obstacle. Generally, an automatic driving vehicle needs to use multiple laser radars to cover the vehicle body to detect the surroundings of the vehicle body.

[0003] In the related art, referring to Figure 1 , an automatic driving vehicle 100 is installed with a laser radar sensor 101, a laser radar sensor 102, a laser radar sensor 103, and a laser radar sensor 104. The laser radar sensors 101, 102, 103, and 104 are respectively used to cover the front field of view, the right field of view, the left field of view, and the rear field of view of the vehicle 100.

[0004] However, in the prior art, in order to cover the entire vehicle, multiple laser radar sensors are needed, and each laser radar sensor works independently, that is, a light source needs to be set in each laser radar sensor, which is too high in cost and difficult to popularize. SUMMARY

[0005] The purpose of the present application is to provide a light source sharing device and a vehicle, which can reduce the cost of using laser radar technology by using one light source to provide light for multiple light source sharing devices.

[0006] Embodiments of the present application are implemented as follows:

[0007] In one aspect of the present application, a light source sharing device is provided, which includes:

[0008] a light source generating unit, a light source distribution network unit, and multiple light source sharing devices;

[0009] The light source generating unit is connected to the light source distribution network unit;

[0010] The light source generating unit is used to generate light required by the multiple light source sharing devices;

[0011] The light source distribution network unit is connected to each light source sharing device and is used to distribute the light emitted by the light source generating unit to each light source sharing device.

[0012] Optionally, the light source generating unit comprises a power supply module, a light source and light source driving module, an optical path coupling module and a synchronization control module;

[0013] The output end of the power supply module is connected with the light source and light source driving module and the synchronization control module respectively, and the light source and light source driving module is connected with the optical path coupling module and the synchronization control module respectively; the input end of the power supply module is used for connecting a power supply;

[0014] The light source and light source driving module comprises a light source and a light source driving circuit, which is used for driving the light source to generate light and coupling the generated light to the light source distribution network unit through the optical path coupling module;

[0015] The synchronization control module is used for keeping the light source and light source driving module and each light source sharing device signal synchronization.

[0016] Optionally, the light source and light source driving module is specifically used for driving the light source to generate continuous light, or generate pulsed light, or modulate the frequency or phase of the light, or adjust the time length or time interval of the pulsed light, and coupling the light output by the light source and light source driving module to the light source distribution network unit through the optical path coupling module.

[0017] Optionally, the light source sharing device further comprises a synchronization control unit; the synchronization control unit is connected with the light source generating unit and each light source sharing device respectively, and is used for controlling the signal synchronization between the light source generating unit and each light source sharing device.

[0018] Optionally, the light source sharing device is a laser radar sensor;

[0019] One end of the synchronization control unit is connected with the synchronization control module in the light source generating unit, and the other end is connected with the signal processing and synchronization control module of each light source sharing device respectively.

[0020] Optionally, the light source distribution network unit is connected with the light source generating unit and the light source sharing device through an optical fiber.

[0021] Optionally, the light source distribution network unit comprises a light splitting component;

[0022] The light splitting component is used for distributing the light transmitted by the light source generating unit, dividing the light into multiple beams according to the number of the light source sharing devices, and distributing the light to each light source sharing device.

[0023] Optionally, the light splitting component comprises at least one input end and at least one output end;

[0024] In the case that the light source generating unit transmits light to the input end of the light splitting component, at least one output end of the light splitting component is closed or opened according to the number of the light source sharing devices required to share the light.

[0025] Optionally, the light source sharing device is a laser radar sensor; the laser radar sensor comprises a fiber coupling interface, a transmitting direction optical element, a scanning mechanism, a receiving direction optical element, a photodetector, a signal processing and synchronization control module;

[0026] The input end of the fiber coupling interface is configured to receive light emitted by the light source generating unit, and the output end of the fiber coupling interface is configured to be connected with the input end of the transmitting direction optical element and transmit the received light to the input end of the transmitting direction optical element, and the output end of the transmitting direction optical element is configured to emit the light emitted by the light source to the scanning mechanism.

[0027] The scanning mechanism is configured to adjust the propagation path of the light emitted by the light source, and is configured to re-reflect the reflected light to the receiving direction optical element, and the receiving direction optical element is configured to transmit the reflected light to the photodetector, and the photodetector is configured to convert the received light signal into an electrical signal and transmit the electrical signal to the signal processing and synchronization control module.

[0028] The signal processing and synchronization control module is connected with the synchronization control unit, and is configured to process the electrical signal transmitted by the photodetector, and is configured to synchronize the signals between the plurality of laser radar sensors and the light source generating unit.

[0029] Optionally, the scanning mechanism is a rotatable mirror.

[0030] The rotatable mirror has a rotation angle of [-60°, 60°] in a first direction, and has a rotation angle of [-20°, 20°] in a second direction.

[0031] The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0032] In another aspect of the embodiments of the present application, a car is provided, comprising a plurality of light source sharing devices according to any one of the above.

[0033] The beneficial effects of the embodiments of the present application include:

[0034] The light source sharing device provided by the embodiment of the present application is used for generating light required by each light source sharing device by a light source generating unit, and distributing the light generated by the light source generating unit to each light source sharing device by a light source distribution network unit, so that each light source sharing device can work normally after obtaining the light. The light is distributed by the light source distribution network unit, so that the light generated by one light source can be output to each light source sharing device installed at different positions. That is, only one light source can provide light for multiple light source sharing devices installed at different positions, and it is not necessary to set an independent light source in each light source sharing device to provide required light for each light source sharing device. In this way, the number of required light sources can be reduced, and the cost can be reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0035] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application, the drawings required to be used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of the present application, and therefore should not be regarded as a limitation on the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can also be obtained without creative labor on the basis of these drawings.

[0036] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a laser radar sensor installation position provided by the prior art;

[0037] Figure 2 A structural schematic diagram of a first light source sharing device provided by the embodiment of the present application;

[0038] Figure 3 A structural schematic diagram of a second light source sharing device provided by the embodiment of the present application;

[0039] Figure 4 A structural schematic diagram of a third light source sharing device provided by the embodiment of the present application;

[0040] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a first light path coupling provided by the embodiment of the present application;

[0041] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a second light path coupling provided by the embodiment of the present application;

[0042] Figure 7 A structural schematic diagram of a fourth light source sharing device provided by the embodiment of the present application;

[0043] Figure 8 A structural schematic diagram of a light splitting assembly provided by the embodiment of the present application;

[0044] Figure 9 A structural schematic diagram of a first laser radar sensor provided by the embodiment of the present application;

[0045] Figure 10 A second schematic structural diagram of a laser radar sensor provided by an embodiment of the present application.

[0046] Reference signs:

[0047] Prior art:

[0048] 100: autonomous vehicle, 101: laser radar sensor, 102: laser radar sensor, 103: laser radar sensor, 104: laser radar sensor;

[0049] The present application:

[0050] 201: light source generating unit, 2011: power supply module, 2012: light source and light source driving module, 2013: light path coupling module, 2014: synchronization control module, 202: light source distribution network unit, 2021: optical splitter, 2022: optical splitter, 2023: optical splitter, 2024: optical splitter, 2031: light source sharing device, 2032: light source sharing device, 2033: light source sharing device, 2034: light source sharing device, 204: synchronization control unit;

[0051] A: light emitting surface of light source, B1: optical fiber, B2: optical fiber, C: laser, D: lens, a: optical fiber coupling interface, b: emission direction optical element, c: scanning mechanism, d: receiving direction optical element, e: photodetector, f: signal processing and synchronization control module, g: light source emitting module. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] In order to make the objectives, technical solutions and advantages of the embodiments of the present application clearer, the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be described clearly and completely below with reference to the drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some of the embodiments of the present application, rather than all the embodiments of the present application. The components of the embodiments of the present application described and shown in the drawings herein can be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0053] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of the present application provided in the drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed present application, but only represents selected embodiments of the present application. All other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art based on the embodiments in the present application without making creative efforts fall within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0054] It should be noted that: similar reference signs and letters represent similar items in the following drawings, therefore, once an item is defined in one drawing, it does not need to be further defined and explained in subsequent drawings.

[0055] In the description of the present application, it should be noted that the terms "center", "upper", "lower", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "inner", "outer" and the like indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, or the orientation or positional relationship in which the product of the application is usually placed, and are only for the convenience of describing the present application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a particular orientation, be constructed and operated in a particular orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as a limitation on the present application. In addition, the terms "first", "second", "third" and the like are only used to distinguish the description and cannot be understood as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0056] In addition, the terms "horizontal", "vertical" and the like do not mean that the components must be absolutely horizontal or vertical, but can be slightly inclined. For example, "horizontal" only means that it is more horizontal relative to "vertical", and does not mean that the structure must be completely horizontal, but can be slightly inclined.

[0057] In the description of the present application, it should also be noted that unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "provided", "mounted", "connected", "connected" should be broadly understood, for example, it can be fixedly connected, or it can be detachably connected, or integrally connected; it can be mechanically connected, or it can be electrically connected; it can be directly connected, or it can be indirectly connected through an intermediate medium; it can be the communication between the two elements inside. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in the present application can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0058] Before the embodiments of the present application are explained in detail, the application scenarios of the embodiments of the present application will be described.

[0059] With the rise of automatic driving technology in recent years, the application of laser radar technology in automatic driving cars has also attracted much attention. Laser radar technology is a remote sensing technology for measuring distance, which mainly irradiates target objects with laser, and analyzes the reflected light with a detector to calculate the time when the laser returns after encountering an obstacle, to calculate the relative distance of the target from itself. Since the detection field of view range of the laser radar sensor is limited, multiple laser radar sensors are needed to cover the vehicle body, so that the laser radar sensor can detect the surrounding environment of the vehicle. Figure 1 For example, four laser radar sensors are needed to cover all the fields of view of the automatic driving car 100. Moreover, each laser radar sensor works independently, and there is no direct connection or influence between each laser radar sensor.

[0060] However, since each laser radar sensor works independently, each laser radar sensor needs an independent light source, so there is a disadvantage of high cost. Therefore, the embodiment of the present application provides a light source sharing device and a laser radar sensor. The cost of the laser radar sensor and the cost of using laser radar technology can be reduced, which helps the popularization of laser radar technology.

[0061] The light source sharing device provided by the present application is applicable to any scene that needs to distribute a light source, including but not limited to scenes that need to use laser ranging and scenes that need light source illumination, such as can be applied to ranging of autonomous vehicles, and can also be applied to emergency lighting in special situations. The embodiment of the present application does not limit this.

[0062] The following is described by taking that the light source sharing device is installed on a vehicle as an example. However, it does not mean that the embodiment of the present application can only be applied to vehicles.

[0063] Figure 2 For the structure diagram of the light source sharing device provided by the present application, please refer to Figure 2 The embodiment of the present application provides a light source sharing device which can be installed on a vehicle, comprising: a light source generating unit 201, a light source distribution network unit 202, and a plurality of light source sharing devices.

[0064] The light source generating unit 201 is connected with the light source distribution network unit 202.

[0065] The light source generating unit 201 is used to generate light required by the plurality of light source sharing devices.

[0066] The light source distribution network unit 202 is connected with each light source sharing device, and is used to distribute the light emitted by the light source generating unit 201 into each light source sharing device.

[0067] Further, the output end of the light source generating unit 201 is connected with the input end of the light source distribution network unit 202, and the plurality of output ends of the light source distribution network unit 202 are respectively connected with each light source sharing device.

[0068] Optionally, the light source distribution network unit 202 can also close or open at least one output end of the light source distribution network unit 202 according to the number of light source sharing devices that need light.

[0069] Optionally, the light source generating unit 201 can generate laser or can generate ordinary light for illumination. The embodiment of the present application takes the light source generating unit 201 generating laser as an example for description, but the embodiment of the present application does not limit this, and the internal light source can be flexibly adjusted according to the scene needs.

[0070] Optionally, the light source generating unit 201 can generate continuous light, can generate pulsed light, or can generate light conforming to other rules, such as light conforming to a certain frequency or phase, or pulsed light with a required length of time or time interval. Embodiments of the present application take the light source generating unit 201 generating pulsed light as an example for description, but embodiments of the present application are not limited thereto.

[0071] Optionally, the light source sharing device can be integrated into various devices requiring light sources, such as a laser radar sensor, a lighting device, and the like. Embodiments of the present application take the light source sharing device as a laser radar sensor as an example for description, but embodiments of the present application are not limited thereto.

[0072] Optionally, the light source sharing device can be installed inside the light source sharing apparatus or can be installed outside the light source sharing apparatus and connected to the light source sharing apparatus through an optical fiber. Each light source sharing device can be installed at any position, and embodiments of the present application are not limited thereto.

[0073] It should be noted that the light source generating unit 201 can be connected to the light source distribution network unit 202 through an optical fiber, and the light source distribution network unit 202 can also be connected to each light source sharing device through an optical fiber. That is, the laser generated by the light source generating unit 201 is distributed to each light source sharing device through an optical fiber, wherein the optical fiber has the advantages of wide frequency band, low loss, strong anti-interference ability, and high fidelity. In this way, the interference of the laser generated by the light source generating unit 201 caused by external environmental changes or dust and the like can be reduced, and the anti-interference and reliability of the light source sharing apparatus can be improved.

[0074] In embodiments of the present application, the light source generating unit 201 generates the light required by each light source sharing device, and the light source distribution network unit 202 distributes the light generated by the light source generating unit 201 to each light source sharing device. After obtaining the light, each light source sharing device can work normally. By distributing the light through the light source distribution network unit 202, the light generated by one light source can be output to each light source sharing device installed at different positions. That is, only one light source is needed to provide light for multiple light source sharing devices installed at different positions, and it is not necessary to set an independent light source in each light source sharing device to provide the required light for each light source sharing device. In this way, the number of required light sources can be reduced, and the cost of the light source sharing apparatus can be reduced.

[0075] In a possible implementation manner, the light emitted by the light source generating unit 201 can be distributed to each light source sharing device in a spatial coupling manner.

[0076] Optionally, the light generated by the light source generating unit 201 is coupled to the light source distribution network unit 202 through a lens, and then distributed to each light source sharing device by the light source distribution network unit 202 through a lens.

[0077] It should be noted that the light generated by the light source generating unit 201 is distributed to each light source sharing device through spatial coupling, which can reduce physical interconnection and does not require wiring requirements.

[0078] In one possible implementation, referring to Figure 3 The light source sharing device further includes a synchronization control unit 204. The synchronization control unit 204 is connected with the light source generating unit 201 and each light source sharing device respectively, and is configured to control the signal synchronization between the light source generating unit 201 and each light source sharing device.

[0079] Specifically, the synchronization control unit 204 performs one-way or two-way communication with the light source generating unit 201 and each light source sharing device through a bus, so as to perform state monitoring and synchronization control on the light source sharing device.

[0080] Optionally, each light source sharing device can be connected with different control ends of the synchronization control unit 204 respectively, or each light source sharing device can be connected with the same control end of the synchronization control unit 204. The embodiments of the present application do not limit this.

[0081] It should be noted that the synchronization control unit 204 can serve as a master device of the light source sharing device to control the light source generating unit 201, the light source distribution network unit 202 and the plurality of light source sharing devices in the light source sharing device synchronously; in the case that other devices serve as the master device of the light source sharing device, the synchronization control unit 204 can also control the light source generating unit 201, the light source distribution network unit 202 and the plurality of light source sharing devices in the light source sharing device synchronously under the control of the other devices.

[0082] The master device can be the synchronization control unit 204, or one of the plurality of light source sharing devices. The other devices in the light source sharing device except the master device serve as slave devices.

[0083] The working process of the synchronization control unit 204 will be described below in the case that the synchronization control unit 204 serves as the master device of the light source sharing device.

[0084] For example, the synchronization control unit 204 monitors or synchronously controls the light source sharing device by monitoring or inquiring the status of each slave device, or responds to the request of the corresponding slave device. The request of the slave device can include, but is not limited to, whether the light source generating unit 201 emits or turns off the light source, setting the mode of the generated light source of the light source generating unit 201 (such as generating continuous light or pulsed light, modulating the frequency or phase of the generated light in a certain rule, adjusting the time length or time interval of the generated light in a certain rule), determining that all output ends of the light source distribution network unit 202 output or turn off, determining that each output end outputs or selects output in time.

[0085] Optionally, the above-mentioned output in time of each output end means that each output end can stop outputting light after outputting light for a first preset time length. And in the case that each output end stops outputting light, the light can be continued to be outputted after a second preset time length.

[0086] Optionally, the first preset time length and the second preset time length can be preset in advance. In addition, the first preset time length can be equal to the second preset time length, and the first preset time length can also be not equal to the second preset time length. The embodiment of the present application does not limit this.

[0087] Optionally, the above-mentioned selection output of each output end means that when a part of the output ends output light, another part of the output ends do not output light.

[0088] It is worth noting that by synchronously distributing the light generated by the light source generating unit 201 to each light source sharing device through the synchronization control unit 204, each light source sharing device can be synchronized to start working and / or synchronized to obtain a feedback signal and / or synchronized to process a signal.

[0089] In one possible implementation, referring to Figure 4 The light source generating unit 201 includes a power supply module 2011, a light source and light source driving module 2012, a light path coupling module 2013 and a synchronization control module 2014.

[0090] The output end of the power supply module 2011 is connected with the light source and light source driving module 2012 and the synchronization control module 2014 respectively, the light source and light source driving module 2012 is connected with the light path coupling module 2013 and the synchronization control module 2014 respectively; the input end of the power supply module 2011 is used to connect a power supply.

[0091] The light source and light source driving module 2012 includes a light source and a light source driving circuit, the light source driving circuit is used to drive the light source to generate light, and the generated light is coupled to the light source distribution network unit 202 through the light path coupling module 2013.

[0092] The synchronization control module 2014 is configured to keep the light source and the light source driving module 2012 synchronized with each light source sharing device signal.

[0093] The power supply module 2011 can convert the power supply voltage into different levels of voltage required by the light source generating unit 201 to supply power to the light source generating unit 201.

[0094] Optionally, the light source and the light source driving module 2012 can include a pulsed photoelectric diode or other forms of tunable laser, and under the control of the synchronization control module 2014, the light source and the light source driving module 2012 drives the pulsed photoelectric diode or the tunable laser to generate light source as required.

[0095] It is worth noting that the frequency or phase of the light generated by the pulsed photoelectric diode or the tunable laser, the length or time interval of the pulsed light can be preset in advance, or can be adjusted in real time according to actual needs, and the embodiments of the present application do not limit this.

[0096] In a possible implementation manner, the light source and the light source driving module 2012 is specifically configured to generate continuous light, or generate pulsed light, or modulate the frequency or phase of the light, or adjust the length or time interval of the pulsed light, and couple the light generated by the light source and the light source driving module 2012 to the light source distribution network unit 202 through the optical coupling module 2013.

[0097] Optionally, the light source and the light source driving module 2012 modulating the frequency or phase of the light can specifically be modulating the light to a preset frequency or phase in advance.

[0098] It is worth noting that because there are many different technical routes for laser radar sensors, such as laser radar sensors using direct time-of-flight technology, and laser radar sensors using frequency modulated continuous wave (FMCW) technology. The laser radar sensor in the embodiments of the present application can be a laser radar sensor using direct time-of-flight technology, or a laser radar sensor using FMCW technology. The embodiments of the present application do not limit this.

[0099] It is worth noting that for laser radar sensors using direct time-of-flight technology, the light source and the light source driving module 2012 can only drive the pulsed photoelectric diode to emit light. For laser radar sensors using FMCW technology, the light source and the light source driving module 2012 can not only drive the tunable laser to generate light, but also modulate the frequency or phase of the light. In this way, the light source sharing device can be applied to laser radar sensors of different technical routes, and the universality of the light source sharing device can be improved.

[0100] Optionally, the light path coupling module 2013 can directly couple the light generated by the light source and light source driving module 2012 to the light source distribution network unit 202.

[0101] Specifically, referring to Figure 5 , the light path coupling module 2013 directly emits the light generated by the light source and light source driving module 2012 to the optical fiber B1 through the light emitting surface A of the light source, and then transmits the light to the light source distribution network unit 202 through the optical fiber B1.

[0102] Optionally, the light path coupling module 2013 can couple the light generated by the light source and light source driving module 2012 to the light source distribution network unit 202 through a lens.

[0103] Specifically, referring to Figure 6 , the light path coupling module 2013 can refract the light generated by the laser C to the optical fiber B2 through the lens D, and then transmit the light to the light source distribution network unit 202 through the optical fiber B2.

[0104] Optionally, if the output interface of the pulsed photodiode is an optical fiber interface, the light path coupling module 2013 can directly access the light generated by the pulsed photodiode to the light source distribution network unit 202.

[0105] In a possible implementation, the light source sharing device is a laser radar sensor.

[0106] Correspondingly, one end of the synchronization control unit 204 is connected with the synchronization control module 2014 in the light source generating unit 201, and the other end is connected with the signal processing and synchronization control module of each light source sharing device.

[0107] Optionally, one end of the synchronization control unit 204 can be connected with the synchronization control module 2014 in the light source generating unit 201 through an optical fiber, and the other end can also be connected with the signal processing and synchronization control module of each light source sharing device through an optical fiber.

[0108] It is worth noting that since the optical fiber has the advantages of wide frequency band, low loss, strong anti-interference ability and high fidelity. By connecting the synchronization control unit 204 with the synchronization control module 2014 and the scanning mechanism of each light source sharing device through the optical fiber, the anti-interference ability and stability of the light source sharing device can be improved.

[0109] In a possible implementation, the light source distribution network unit 202 is connected with the light source generating unit 201 and each light source sharing device through an optical fiber.

[0110] It is worth mentioning that, due to the advantages of wide frequency band, low loss, strong anti-interference ability and high fidelity, the optical fiber is used to connect the light source distribution network unit 202 with the light source generation unit 201 and each light source sharing device, so that the anti-interference ability and stability of the light source sharing device can be improved.

[0111] In a possible implementation, the light source distribution network unit 202 includes a light splitting component.

[0112] The light splitting component is used to distribute the light transmitted by the light source generation unit 201, and the light is split into multiple beams according to the number of light source sharing devices and is distributed into each light source sharing device.

[0113] Optionally, the light splitting component can be a light splitter that splits one beam of light into two beams of light, or a light splitter that splits one beam of light into four beams of light, or a light splitter that splits one beam of light into other numbers of beams of light. The embodiments of the present application do not limit this.

[0114] Further, the light splitting component includes at least one input end and at least one output end.

[0115] In the case that the light source generation unit 201 transmits light to the input end of the light splitting component, at least one output end of the light splitting component can be closed or opened according to the number of light source sharing devices that need light.

[0116] For the light splitting component, all the output ends of the light splitting component can be opened at the same time, or all the output ends of the light splitting component can be closed at the same time, or part of the output ends of the light splitting component can be opened while the other part of the output ends of the light splitting component is closed.

[0117] Optionally, the light splitting component can have one input end and multiple output ends, or can have multiple input ends and multiple output ends. The embodiments of the present application do not limit this.

[0118] It is worth mentioning that, by using the light splitting component, one beam of light generated by the light source generation unit 201 is split into multiple beams of light, and the multiple beams of light are respectively sent to multiple light source sharing devices, so that only one light source is needed to provide the required light for multiple light source sharing devices. In this way, the cost can be reduced.

[0119] In a possible implementation, referring to Figure 7 , the light source generation unit 201 generates light, and the light splitter 2021, the light splitter 2022 and the light splitter 2023 are used to distribute the light generated by the light source generation unit 201 to the light source sharing device 2031, the light source sharing device 2032, the light source sharing device 2033 and the light source sharing device 2034.

[0120] Specifically, the beam splitter 2021, the beam splitter 2022, and the beam splitter 2023 are beam splitters that split one beam of light into two beams of light.

[0121] Specifically, the light source sharing device 2031, the light source sharing device 2032, the light source sharing device 2033, and the light source sharing device 2034 are all laser radar sensors.

[0122] It is worth noting that one beam of light generated by the light source generating unit 201 is split into two beams of light by the beam splitter 2021, and the two beams of light are respectively sent to the light source sharing device 2031 and the beam splitter 2022. Then, the beam splitter 2022 splits the beam of light from the beam splitter 2021 into two beams of light and respectively sends them to the light source sharing device 2032 and the beam splitter 2023. Finally, the beam splitter 2023 splits the beam of light from the beam splitter 2022 into two beams of light and respectively sends them to the light source sharing device 2033 and the light source sharing device 2034. In this way, only one light source, the light source generating unit, can provide the required light for the four light source sharing devices. In this way, the cost can be reduced.

[0123] Figure 8 is a structural schematic diagram of a beam splitting assembly provided by an embodiment of the present application. Referring to Figure 8 The beam splitter 2024 includes one input end and four output ends.

[0124] The input end of the beam splitter 2024 is used to receive light generated by the light source generating unit 201. The beam splitter 2024 is used to split the light generated by the light source generating unit 201 into four beams of light and respectively send them from the output end 1, the output end 2, the output end 3, and the output end 4.

[0125] For example, there are four light source sharing devices that need light. The light generated by the light source generating unit 201 is emitted to the input end of the beam splitter 2024. The beam splitter 2024 splits the light generated by the light source generating unit 201 into four beams of light and respectively sends them from the output end 1, the output end 2, the output end 3, and the output end 4 to the four light source sharing devices.

[0126] For another example, the light generated by the light source generating unit 201 is emitted to the input end of the beam splitter 2024. The light source sharing devices connected to the output end 1 and the output end 3 need light, while the light source sharing devices connected to the output end 2 and the output end 4 do not need light. The output end 1 and the output end 3 are opened, and the output end 2 and the output end 4 are closed. The beam splitter 2024 splits the light generated by the light source generating unit 201 into two beams of light and respectively sends them from the output end 1 and the output end 3 to the two light source sharing devices that need light.

[0127] It is worth mentioning that the light source can be divided into multiple light sources by the beam splitter 2024, so that only one light source of the light source generating unit can provide the required light for multiple light source sharing devices. The light can also be split according to the actual number of light source sharing devices. In this way, the cost can be reduced.

[0128] In one possible implementation, referring to Figure 9 The light source sharing device is a laser radar sensor.

[0129] The laser radar sensor includes a fiber coupling interface a, a transmission direction optical element b, a scanning mechanism c, a receiving direction optical element d, a photodetector e, and a signal processing and synchronization control module f.

[0130] The input end of the fiber coupling interface a is used to receive the light emitted by the light source generating unit 201, and the output end of the fiber coupling interface a is used to connect with the input end of the transmission direction optical element b and send the received light to the input end of the transmission direction optical element b. The output end of the transmission direction optical element b is used to emit the light emitted by the light source to the scanning mechanism c.

[0131] The scanning mechanism c is used to adjust the propagation path of the light emitted by the light source, and the receiving direction optical element d is used to send the reflected light to the photodetector e. The photodetector e is used to convert the received optical signal into an electrical signal and send the electrical signal to the signal processing and synchronization control module f.

[0132] The signal processing and synchronization control module f is connected with the synchronization control unit 204, and is used to process the electrical signal sent by the photodetector e, and is used to synchronize the signals between multiple laser radar sensors and the light source generating unit 201.

[0133] Optionally, the scanning mechanism c can also be used to reflect the reflected light to the receiving direction optical element d.

[0134] Optionally, the light received by the receiving direction optical element d can be the light reflected by the scanning mechanism c, or the light incident from a specially set light receiving port.

[0135] It is worth noting that if the fiber coupling interface a is not provided in the laser radar sensor, a light source generating element, such as a laser, needs to be designed separately in each laser radar sensor. In the case of a large number of laser radar sensors to be used, since each laser radar sensor has a light source generating element, the more laser radar sensors used, the higher the cost.

[0136] It is worth noting that the laser radar sensor provided in the embodiments of the present application is provided with the optical fiber coupling interface a, so that the light source distribution network unit 202 can distribute the light source generated by the light source generation unit to the optical fiber coupling interface a of each laser radar sensor. That is, in the embodiments of the present application, each laser radar sensor does not have a light source generating element. In this way, the cost of the laser radar sensor can be reduced, and the cost of using the laser radar technology can be reduced, which is conducive to promoting the laser radar technology.

[0137] In a possible implementation manner, referring to Figure 10 The laser radar sensor further includes a light source emitting module g.

[0138] The input end of the light source emitting module g is connected with the output end of the optical fiber coupling interface a, and the output end of the light source emitting module g is connected with the emitting direction optical element b.

[0139] Optionally, the light source emitting module g can process the light emitted by the light source generation unit 201 as needed, and then output the processed light to the emitting direction optical element b.

[0140] The processing of the light emitted by the light source generation unit 201 by the light source emitting module g can be adjusting the light distributed by the light source distribution network unit 202 into pulsed light, or modulating the light emitted by the light source generation unit 201 into a certain frequency or phase.

[0141] Optionally, the light source emitting module g can also determine whether to output light to the emitting direction optical element b according to actual needs, and if needed, output light to the emitting direction optical element b.

[0142] Optionally, the light source emitting module g can determine the time length of the continuous light output to the emitting direction optical element b according to actual needs, or determine the time length or time interval of the pulsed light output to the emitting direction optical element b according to actual needs.

[0143] For example, the light source generation unit 201 can output continuous light, and the light source distribution network unit 202 can output the continuous light to the light source emitting module g of each laser radar sensor through the optical fiber coupling interface a of each laser radar sensor. In this case, the light source emitting module g of each laser radar sensor can set, modulate or adjust the continuous light according to the actual needs of each laser radar sensor.

[0144] For example, the light source emission module g of at least one of the laser radar sensors can not output the continuous light to the emission direction optical element b in the at least one laser radar sensor. The light source emission module g of the other laser radar sensors can output the continuous light to the emission direction optical element b connected therewith.

[0145] For example, the light source emission module g of at least one of the laser radar sensors can adjust the continuous light to pulsed light occurring at a certain time interval and output to the emission direction optical element b in the at least one laser radar sensor. The light source emission module g of the other laser radar sensors can modulate the continuous light to a preset frequency or phase in advance and output the modulated continuous light to the emission direction optical element b connected therewith.

[0146] For example, the light source generation unit 201 can output pulsed light, and the light source distribution network unit 202 can output the pulsed light to the light source emission module g of each laser radar sensor through the fiber coupling interface a of each laser radar sensor. In this case, the light source emission module g of each laser radar sensor can adjust the light emission duration or occurrence interval of the pulsed light according to actual needs, and the light source emission module g of each laser radar sensor can also determine whether to output the adjusted pulsed light to the emission direction optical element b connected therewith according to actual needs, and output if yes, otherwise, not output.

[0147] It is worth noting that the light source emission module g is arranged to process the light emitted by the light source generation unit 201, which can simplify the design of the light source generation unit 201. At the same time, the light source emission module g in each laser radar sensor can determine whether to output the light or set the characteristics of the light according to actual needs. For example, the light can be set to pulsed light or continuous light, the light can also be modulated to a certain frequency or phase, the duration or time interval of the light can also be adjusted, etc. In this way, the availability of the laser radar sensor and the light source sharing device can be improved.

[0148] In a possible implementation, the scanning mechanism c is a rotatable mirror.

[0149] The rotatable mirror has a rotation angle of [-60°, 60°] in the first direction, and a rotation angle of [-20°, 20°] in the second direction.

[0150] The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0151] It is worth noting that the rotatable mirror can be used to adjust the propagation path of the light distributed by the light source distribution network unit 202 to each laser radar sensor from the light source generated by the light source generation unit. Moreover, the rotatable mirror can also re-reflect the reflected light to the receiving direction optical element.

[0152] It is worth noting that by changing the angle of the rotatable mirror, the light can be reflected to different targets, and light reflected in different directions can be received. In this way, the effect of expanding the scanning range of the laser radar sensor can be achieved.

[0153] The embodiments of the present application also provide a car, which comprises a plurality of light source sharing devices as described above.

[0154] The above merely describes the specific embodiments of the present application, but the protection scope of the present application is not limited thereto, and any person skilled in the art can easily think of changes or replacements within the technical scope disclosed by the present application, which should be covered within the protection scope of the present application. Therefore, the protection scope of the present application should be subject to the protection scope of the claims.

[0155] The above merely describes the preferred embodiments of the present application and is not intended to limit the present application. For those skilled in the art, the present application can have various changes and modifications. Any modification, equivalent replacement, improvement, etc. made within the spirit and principle of the present application should be covered within the protection scope of the present application.

Claims

1. A light source sharing apparatus characterized by comprising: The application relates to a light source generation unit, a light source distribution network unit, a plurality of light source sharing devices and a synchronization control unit, wherein the light source distribution network unit comprises a light splitting component, and the light source sharing devices are laser radar sensors. The light source generation unit is connected with the light source distribution network unit. The light source generation unit is used for generating light required by the plurality of light source sharing devices. The light source distribution network unit is connected with each light source sharing device and is used for distributing the light emitted by the light source generation unit into each light source sharing device. The synchronization control unit is connected with the light source generation unit and each light source sharing device and is used for controlling the signal synchronization between the light source generation unit and each light source sharing device. The synchronization control unit can monitor or query the state of the light source generation unit and the light source distribution network unit, monitor or synchronously control the light source sharing devices or respond to the request of the light source generation unit and the light source distribution network unit, wherein the request of the light source generation unit comprises whether the light source generation unit emits or turns off the light source, setting the mode of the generated light source of the light source generation unit; the request of the light source distribution network unit comprises determining whether all output ends of the light source distribution network unit output or turn off, determining whether each output end outputs or selects output in time. The light source generation unit comprises a power supply module, a light source and light source driving module, an optical path coupling module and a synchronization control module.

2. The light source sharing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The output end of the power supply module is connected with the light source and light source driving module and the synchronization control module, the light source and light source driving module is connected with the optical path coupling module and the synchronization control module, and the input end of the power supply module is used for connecting a power supply. The light source and light source driving module comprises a light source and a light source driving circuit, the light source driving circuit is used for driving the light source to generate light and coupling the generated light to the light source distribution network unit through the optical path coupling module. The synchronization control module is used for keeping the signal synchronization between the light source and light source driving module and each light source sharing device. The light source and light source driving module is specifically used for generating continuous light, generating pulsed light, modulating the frequency or phase of the light, adjusting the time length or time interval of the pulsed light and coupling the light generated by the light source and light source driving module to the light source distribution network unit through the optical path coupling module.

3. The light source sharing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein One end of the synchronization control unit is connected with the synchronization control module in the light source generation unit, and the other end is connected with the signal processing and synchronization control module of each light source sharing device.

4. The light source sharing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The light source distribution network unit is connected with the light source generation unit and the light source sharing device through an optical fiber.

5. The light source sharing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The light splitting component is used for distributing the light output by the light source generation unit, splitting a plurality of light beams according to the number of light source sharing devices and distributing the light into each light source sharing device.

6. The light source sharing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein The light splitting component comprises at least one input end and at least one output end.

7. The light source sharing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein In the case that the light source generation unit outputs light to the input end of the light splitting component, at least one output end of the light splitting component is closed or opened according to the number of light source sharing devices requiring light. ​ 8. The light source sharing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The laser radar sensor comprises a fiber coupling interface, a transmitting direction optical element, a scanning mechanism, a receiving direction optical element, a photoelectric detector, a signal processing and synchronous control module; The input end of the fiber coupling interface is used for receiving the light emitted by the light source generating unit, the output end of the fiber coupling interface is used for connecting with the input end of the transmitting direction optical element and sending the received light to the input end of the transmitting direction optical element, and the output end of the transmitting direction optical element is used for transmitting the light emitted by the light source generating unit to the scanning mechanism; The scanning mechanism is used for adjusting the propagation path of the light emitted by the light source generating unit, the receiving direction optical element is used for sending the reflected light to the photoelectric detector, and the photoelectric detector is used for converting the received optical signal into an electrical signal and sending the electrical signal to the signal processing and synchronous control module; The signal processing and synchronous control module is connected with the synchronous control unit, is used for processing the electrical signal sent by the photoelectric detector, and is used for synchronizing or responding to the signals between multiple laser radar sensors and the light source generating unit.

9. An automobile characterized by comprising: The light source sharing device comprises the laser radar sensor. The laser radar sensor comprises a fiber coupling interface, a transmitting direction optical element, a scanning mechanism, a receiving direction optical element, a photoelectric detector, a signal processing and synchronous control module; The input end of the fiber coupling interface is used for receiving the light emitted by the light source generating unit, the output end of the fiber coupling interface is used for connecting with the input end of the transmitting direction optical element and sending the received light to the input end of the transmitting direction optical element, and the output end of the transmitting direction optical element is used for transmitting the light emitted by the light source generating unit to the scanning mechanism; The scanning mechanism is used for adjusting the propagation path of the light emitted by the light source generating unit, the receiving direction optical element is used for sending the reflected light to the photoelectric detector, and the photoelectric detector is used for converting the received optical signal into an electrical signal and sending the electrical signal to the signal processing and synchronous control module; The signal processing and synchronous control module is connected with the synchronous control unit, is used for processing the electrical signal sent by the photoelectric detector, and is used for synchronizing or responding to the signals between multiple laser radar sensors and the light source generating unit. The light source sharing device comprises the laser radar sensor. The laser radar sensor comprises a fiber coupling interface, a transmitting direction optical element, a scanning mechanism, a receiving direction optical element, a photoelectric detector, a signal processing and synchronous control module; The input end of the fiber coupling interface is used for receiving the light emitted by the light source generating unit, the output end of the fiber coupling interface is used for connecting with the input end of the transmitting direction optical element and sending the received light to the input end of the transmitting direction optical element, and the output end of the transmitting direction optical element is used for transmitting the light emitted by the light source generating unit to the scanning mechanism; The scanning mechanism is used for adjusting the propagation path of the light emitted by the light source generating unit, the receiving direction optical element is

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