Transmitting system and related apparatus

Abstract

A transmitting system and a related apparatus, which are applied to the technical field of laser radars. The transmitting system comprises: a first transmitter (41), a first energy storage array (42), and a second energy storage array (43); the first transmitter (41) comprises a first transmitting sub-region (411) and a second transmitting sub-region (412), the first transmitting sub-region (411) is correspondingly connected to the first energy storage array (42), and the second transmitting sub-region (412) is correspondingly connected to the second energy storage array (43); the first energy storage array (42) is configured to supply energy to the first transmitting sub-region (411), the second energy storage array (43) is configured to supply energy to the second transmitting sub-region (412), the energy storage value of the first energy storage array (42) is greater than that of the second energy storage array (43), and the transmitting power of the first transmitting sub-region (411) is greater than that of the second transmitting sub-region (412); the first energy storage array (42), the first transmitting sub-region (411), the second transmitting sub-region (412), and the second energy storage array (43) are sequentially arranged in a first direction, the first energy storage array (42) is arranged in two columns in the first direction, and the second energy storage array (43) is arranged in one column in the first direction. The transmitting system can generate small-width laser pulses without affecting the generation of large pulse width.

Description

Launch system and related devices

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202410482000.3, filed on April 19, 2024, entitled “Launch System and Related Devices”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of lidar technology, and in particular to a transmitting system and related devices. Background Technology

[0003] With the development of information technology and computer vision, detection technology has advanced rapidly, and various detection devices have brought great convenience to people's lives and travel. Detection devices can be regarded as the "eyes" of the environment, including visual sensors such as cameras and radar sensors such as millimeter-wave radar, lidar, and ultrasonic radar. Among them, lidar (light detection and ranging) has significant advantages in detection range, ranging accuracy, and reliability, and has the characteristic of near-all-weather operation. It is a key sensor in the field of perception and plays an important role in fields such as intelligent driving, intelligent transportation, surveying and mapping, and intelligent manufacturing.

[0004] In lidar applications, two types of emission waveforms are often used: large pulse width and small pulse width. Large pulse width is used to obtain high power and increase detection range for detecting distant targets. Small pulse width is used to obtain low power for detecting nearby targets, while also improving range resolution. Currently, in 1D solid-state lidar, to increase detection range, large-capacitance capacitors are often used to power the laser. This results in large capacitor sizes, requiring multiple rows of capacitors arranged between the capacitors and the laser. This increases the length of the traces between the capacitors (especially the peripheral capacitors) and the laser, increasing the inductance of the laser discharge loop, which in turn hinders the laser from outputting smaller pulse widths.

[0005] How to generate narrower laser pulses without affecting the generation of wide laser pulses is a problem that urgently needs to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides a transmitting system and related apparatus that can generate laser pulses with smaller widths simultaneously without affecting the generation of wide laser pulses.

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a launching system, the launching system comprising:

[0008] First transmitter, first energy storage array, second energy storage array;

[0009] The first transmitter includes a first sub-transmission area and a second sub-transmission area, the first sub-transmission area being connected to the first energy storage array, and the second sub-transmission area being connected to the second energy storage array.

[0010] The first energy storage array is used to power the first sub-emission area, and the second energy storage array is used to power the second sub-emission area. The energy storage value of the first energy storage array is greater than the energy storage value of the second energy storage array, and the transmission power of the first sub-emission area is greater than the transmission power of the second sub-emission area.

[0011] The first energy storage array, the first sub-emission area, the second sub-emission area, and the second energy storage array are arranged sequentially along a first direction. The first energy storage array is set in two columns in the first direction, and the second energy storage array is set in one column in the first direction.

[0012] This application provides a transmitting system. The first transmitter in the transmitting system includes a first sub-transmitting area and a second sub-transmitting area. The first and second sub-transmitting areas may include one or more lasers. The energy storage array in the transmitting system may include one or more capacitors; this application does not limit the specific components. The first energy storage array, the first sub-transmitting area, the second sub-transmitting area, and the second energy storage array in the transmitting system are arranged sequentially along a first direction. The first energy storage array is connected to the first sub-transmitting area to supply energy to it, enabling it to emit a light beam. The second energy storage array is also connected to the second sub-transmitting area to supply energy to it, enabling it to emit a light beam. Since the energy storage value of the first energy storage array is greater than that of the second energy storage array, the transmission power of the first sub-transmitting area must be correspondingly greater than that of the second sub-transmitting area. Furthermore, since the energy storage value of the first energy storage array is greater than that of the second energy storage array, the volume of the first energy storage array must be correspondingly larger than that of the second energy storage array, so that the first energy storage array is arranged in two columns along the first direction, and the second energy storage array is arranged in one column along the first direction.

[0013] To improve detection range, current lidar systems often use large-capacitance capacitors to power the laser. This results in large capacitor sizes, requiring multiple rows of capacitors to be arranged between the capacitors and the laser. This increases the length of the traces between the capacitors (especially the peripheral capacitors) and the laser, leading to an increase in the inductance of the laser discharge loop, which in turn hinders the laser from outputting a smaller pulse width.

[0014] The transmitting system in this embodiment divides the transmitting channel into two parts based on the transmitting power: a first sub-transmitting area is a high-power transmitting channel, and a second sub-transmitting area is a low-power transmitting channel. The first sub-transmitting area uses a first energy storage array with a large energy storage value to ensure high transmitting power, output a wide pulse width, and improve detection range for detecting distant targets. The second sub-transmitting area uses a second energy storage array with a smaller energy storage value. Since the second energy storage array is smaller, it can be implemented with a single-column arrangement in the first direction, resulting in a smaller spacing between the second energy storage array and the second sub-transmitting area, shorter traces (i.e., current loops), reduced loop inductance, and thus a narrower laser pulse width for detecting near-range targets. Therefore, the transmitting system in this embodiment can generate narrower laser pulses without affecting the generation of wide laser pulses.

[0015] Optionally, the second energy storage array can also be configured with two or more columns in the first direction. When the volume of the second energy storage array is too large to be accommodated by a single column layout in the first direction, it can be configured with multiple columns. However, the number of columns of the second energy storage array in the first direction should be as small as possible so that the distance between the second energy storage array and the second sub-emission area is as small as possible, the traces (i.e., current loops) are shorter, the loop inductance can be reduced, and thus a smaller width laser pulse can be achieved.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the first sub-emission area is arranged along a second direction, and the second sub-emission area is arranged along a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0017] In this application, a possible specific implementation of the emission region arrangement is provided. Specifically, the first sub-emission region includes multiple lasers, and the first sub-emission region is arranged along the arrangement direction (i.e., the second direction) of the emission channels corresponding to the multiple lasers, and the second direction is perpendicular to the first direction mentioned above. The arrangement of the second sub-emission region is similar to that of the first sub-emission region, and will not be described again here.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the first sub-emission region is used to emit a first beam, and the second sub-emission region is used to emit a second beam, wherein the pulse width of the first beam is greater than the pulse width of the second beam.

[0019] In this embodiment, the first sub-emission region emits a first beam under the power of the first energy storage array, and the second sub-emission region emits a second beam under the power of the second energy storage array. Since the energy storage value of the first energy storage array is greater than that of the second energy storage array, the emission power of the first sub-emission region is greater than that of the second sub-emission region. Accordingly, the pulse width of the first beam is greater than that of the second beam, so as to achieve the generation of a smaller laser pulse without affecting the generation of a wide laser pulse.

[0020] In one possible implementation, the first sub-emission area, the second sub-emission area, the first energy storage array, and the second energy storage array are disposed on a printed circuit board (PCB).

[0021] In the embodiments of this application, the first sub-emission area, the second sub-emission area, the first energy storage array, and the second energy storage array are disposed on a printed circuit board (PCB). Furthermore, the first energy storage array and the second energy storage array can be disposed on the front side or the back side of the PCB; this application does not impose any limitation on this.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the first sub-emission area and the second sub-emission area simultaneously emit beams or emit beams in a time-division manner.

[0023] In the embodiments of this application, the first sub-emitting region and the second sub-emitting region can emit light beams simultaneously or in a time-division manner, and this application does not impose any limitations on this. Optionally, the above-mentioned emitting system may further include a switch array for controlling the opening or closing of the first sub-emitting region and the second sub-emitting region respectively, so as to realize the simultaneous or time-division emission of light beams by the first sub-emitting region and the second sub-emitting region.

[0024] In one possible implementation, the launching system further includes:

[0025] Drive unit;

[0026] The driving unit is connected to the first sub-emission area and the second sub-emission area respectively;

[0027] The driving unit is used to drive the first sub-emission area and the second sub-emission area to emit beams.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the driving unit includes a driver disposed at the beginning or end of the first sub-emission region or the second sub-emission region along a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.

[0029] In this application, a possible specific implementation of the driver arrangement is provided. Specifically, when the driving unit includes a driver, the driver can be disposed along the second direction at the beginning or end of the first sub-emitting region or the second sub-emitting region, which is beneficial for the heat dissipation of the driver. Optionally, the driver can also be disposed along the second direction in the middle or other positions of the first sub-emitting region or the second sub-emitting region, and this application does not limit this.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the driving unit includes at least two drivers for driving the first sub-emission region and the second sub-emission region to emit beams.

[0031] In this embodiment of the application, the driving unit includes at least two drivers for driving the first sub-emitting region and the second sub-emitting region to emit beams. The driving capability and the power of the transmitter can be improved by using multiple drivers.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the at least two drivers include a first driver and a second driver, the first driver and the second driver being respectively disposed at both ends of the first sub-emission area and the second sub-emission area along a second direction, the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction.

[0033] In this application, a possible specific implementation of the driver arrangement is provided. Specifically, when the at least two drivers include a first driver and a second driver, the first driver and the second driver can be respectively disposed at both ends of the first sub-emitting area and the second sub-emitting area along a second direction, which is beneficial for heat dissipation of the drivers. Optionally, the first driver and the second driver can also be disposed in the middle of the first sub-emitting area and the second sub-emitting area or at other positions along the second direction, and this application does not limit this.

[0034] In one possible implementation, the first driver and the second driver are arranged in a mirror image.

[0035] In this application, a possible specific implementation of the driver arrangement is provided, in which the first driver and the second driver are arranged in a mirror image, which is beneficial to optimize the wiring design between various modules in the transmission system and improve space utilization.

[0036] In one possible implementation, when the control signal is high and the first enable pin of the first driver is high, the first driver is used to drive the first sub-emitting region and the second sub-emitting region to emit beams.

[0037] When the control signal is high and the second enable pin of the second driver is high, the second driver is used to drive the first sub-emitting region and the second sub-emitting region to emit beams;

[0038] The control signal is used to control the first driver and the second driver to turn on or off.

[0039] In this application embodiment, a possible specific implementation of the driving method is provided. Specifically, when both the control signal and the enable pin of the driver are at a high level, the driver is used to drive the first sub-emitting region and the second sub-emitting region to emit light beams. The signal on the enable pin is a level signal, and the control signal is a pulse signal used to control the on / off state of the first and second drivers. The driving method in this application embodiment can support the independent or simultaneous activation of the first and second drivers, adjusting the driving capability.

[0040] In one possible implementation, when the first control signal is high, the first driver is used to drive the first sub-emission area and the second sub-emission area to emit beams;

[0041] When the second control signal is high, the second driver is used to drive the first sub-emission area and the second sub-emission area to emit beams;

[0042] The first control signal is used to control the first driver to turn on or off, and the second control signal is used to control the second driver to turn on or off.

[0043] In this application embodiment, a possible specific implementation of the driving method is provided. Specifically, a first control signal controls the activation or deactivation of a first driver, thereby driving the first and second sub-emitting regions to emit light beams. A second control signal controls the activation or deactivation of a second driver, thereby driving the first and second sub-emitting regions to emit light beams. The first and second control signals are pulse signals. This driving method allows for independent or simultaneous activation of the first and second drivers, adjusting the driving capability. Furthermore, the difference in activation delay between the first and second drivers can be compensated for by the delay of the first and second control signals.

[0044] In one possible implementation, the launching system further includes:

[0045] Second transmitter, third energy storage array, fourth energy storage array;

[0046] The second transmitter includes a third sub-transmission area and a fourth sub-transmission area, wherein the third sub-transmission area is connected to the third energy storage array and the fourth sub-transmission area is connected to the fourth energy storage array.

[0047] The third energy storage array is used to power the third sub-emission area, the fourth energy storage array is used to power the fourth sub-emission area, the energy storage value of the third energy storage array is greater than the energy storage value of the fourth energy storage array, the third energy storage array is arranged in two columns in the first direction, the fourth energy storage array is arranged in one column in the first direction, and the transmission power of the third sub-emission area is greater than the transmission power of the fourth sub-emission area.

[0048] The third sub-emission area and the first sub-emission area are offset in a second direction. The first offset is N+0.5 transmission channels, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 0 and less than the number of transmission channels in the first sub-emission area. The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

[0049] In this embodiment, the second transmitter in the transmitting system includes a third sub-transmitting area and a fourth sub-transmitting area. These sub-transmitting areas may include one or more lasers, and the energy storage array in the transmitting system may include one or more capacitors; this embodiment does not impose limitations on these aspects. The third energy storage array is connected to the third sub-transmitting area and supplies power to it, enabling it to emit a light beam. The fourth energy storage array is also connected to the fourth sub-transmitting area and supplies power to it, enabling it to emit a light beam. Since the energy storage value of the third energy storage array is greater than that of the fourth energy storage array, the transmission power of the third sub-transmitting area must be correspondingly greater than that of the fourth sub-transmitting area. Furthermore, because the energy storage value of the third energy storage array is greater than that of the fourth energy storage array, the volume of the third energy storage array must be correspondingly larger than that of the fourth energy storage array, such that the third energy storage array is arranged in two columns in the first direction, and the fourth energy storage array is arranged in one column in the first direction.

[0050] Because the transmitting system in this application divides the transmitting channel into two according to the transmitting power, with the transmitting channel pins arranged left and right, at the same wavenumber, this would double the number of transmitter pins and connected capacitors. With the number of transmitting channels remaining constant, the length of the transmitter's longitudinal light-emitting area would double, resulting in an excessively large aspect ratio. This could lead to breakage and affect the reliability of the transmitting system. Therefore, two sets of transmitters (i.e., the first and second sub-transmitting areas, the third and fourth sub-transmitting areas) can be used to ensure that the total number of transmitting channels remains constant, halving the number of transmitting channels in the original single set of transmitters (i.e., the first and second sub-transmitting areas), reducing the aspect ratio of the transmitter, and improving the reliability of the transmitting system.

[0051] Furthermore, the third sub-transmission area and the first sub-transmission area (or the fourth sub-transmission area and the second sub-transmission area) have a first offset of N+0.5 transmission channels in the second direction, which can improve the resolution of the offset area by at least 100%, thereby improving the detection performance of the transmission system.

[0052] In one possible implementation, the first energy storage array, the first sub-emission area, the second sub-emission area, the second energy storage array, the fourth energy storage array, the fourth sub-emission area, the third sub-emission area, and the third energy storage array are arranged sequentially along the first direction.

[0053] In this application, a possible specific implementation of the arrangement of various arrays in a transmission system is provided. Specifically, the second and fourth sub-transmission areas corresponding to the low-power transmission channels can be arranged adjacent to each other, while the first and third sub-transmission areas corresponding to the high-power transmission channels can be arranged on both sides. This is beneficial for optimizing the wiring design between various arrays in the transmission system and improving space utilization.

[0054] In one possible implementation, the first energy storage array, the first sub-emission area, the second sub-emission area, the second energy storage array, the third energy storage array, the third sub-emission area, the fourth sub-emission area, and the fourth energy storage array are arranged sequentially along the first direction.

[0055] In this application, a possible specific implementation of the array arrangement within a transmission system is provided. Specifically, the transmission areas corresponding to high-power transmission channels and low-power transmission channels can be arranged adjacent to each other to improve the device reliability of the transmission system.

[0056] In one possible implementation, the first energy storage array, the second energy storage array, the third energy storage array, and the fourth energy storage array share the same charging channel.

[0057] In this application, a possible specific implementation of a charging method for an energy storage array is provided. Specifically, each energy storage array in the launch system can share the same charging channel, thereby halving the number of charging channels and achieving miniaturization of the launch system.

[0058] Alternatively, each energy storage array in the launch system may use a different charging channel, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0059] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a chip that includes the transmission system described in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect.

[0060] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a radar or radar system that includes the transmitting system described in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect, or includes the chip described in the second aspect.

[0061] In one possible implementation, the radar includes, but is not limited to, lidar.

[0062] In one possible implementation, there may be a smart sensor that integrates multiple sensors. In the case that the smart sensor includes, but is not limited to, laser detection functions, the smart sensor may also be called a radar or radar system.

[0063] Fourthly, embodiments of this application provide a terminal device, which includes the transmitting system described in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect, or includes the chip described in the second aspect, or includes the radar or radar system described in the third aspect.

[0064] Fifthly, embodiments of this application provide a vehicle terminal, which includes the transmitting system described in the first aspect or any possible implementation of the first aspect, or includes the chip described in the second aspect, or includes the radar or radar system described in the third aspect, or includes the terminal device described in the fourth aspect.

[0065] In this embodiment, the first sub-emission area uses a first energy storage array with a large energy storage value to ensure a large transmission power, output a large pulse width, and improve the detection range for detecting distant targets. The second sub-emission area uses a second energy storage array with a smaller energy storage value. Since the second energy storage array is smaller in size, it can be implemented by arranging it in a single column in the first direction, which makes the spacing between the second energy storage array and the second sub-emission area smaller and the traces (i.e., current loops) shorter, which can reduce the loop inductance and thus achieve a smaller width laser pulse for detecting close-range targets. Therefore, a smaller width laser pulse can be generated at the same time without affecting the generation of a large width laser pulse. Attached Figure Description

[0066] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the embodiments of this application will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0067] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram of an application scenario of radar provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0068] Figure 1B is a schematic diagram of an application scenario of radar provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0069] Figure 2A is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a radar provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0070] Figure 2B is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a radar provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0071] Figure 3A is a schematic diagram of a capacitor arrangement provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0072] Figure 3B is a schematic diagram of another capacitor arrangement provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0073] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a launching system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0074] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a launching system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0075] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of a launching system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0076] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of a launching system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0077] Figure 8 is a circuit diagram of a transmitting system provided in this application;

[0078] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of a launching system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0079] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram of a launching system provided in an embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0080] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0081] The terms "first" and "second," etc., used in the specification, claims, and drawings of this application are used to distinguish different objects, not to describe a specific order. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the listed steps or units, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to these processes, methods, products, or apparatuses.

[0082] The term "embodiment" as used herein means that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it an independent or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. Those skilled in the art will explicitly and implicitly understand that, unless otherwise specified or logically conflicting, the terminology and / or descriptions between the various embodiments of this application are consistent and can be mutually referenced, and technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0083] It should be understood that in this application, "at least one (item)" means one or more, "more than one" means two or more, "at least two (items)" means two or three or more, and "and / or" is used to describe the relationship between related objects, indicating that there can be three relationships. For example, "A and / or B" can mean: only A exists, only B exists, and A and B exist simultaneously, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the related objects before and after are in an "or" relationship. "At least one (item) of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one (item) of a, b, or c can mean: a, b, c, "a and b", "a and c", "b and c", or "a and b and c", where a, b, and c can be single or multiple.

[0084] As described in the background section, currently designed 1D solid-state lidars, when generating wide-width laser pulses, hinder the output of narrower laser pulses. This application provides a transmitting system and related apparatus, relating to the field of lidar technology, which can generate narrower laser pulses simultaneously without affecting the generation of wide-width laser pulses.

[0085] To more clearly describe the solution in this application, some possible application scenarios for lidar will be introduced below.

[0086] Please refer to Figures 1A and 1B, which are schematic diagrams of radar application scenarios provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0087] As shown in Figures 1A and 1B, this exemplary application scenario takes the installation of a lidar on a vehicle as an example.

[0088] The vehicle can be, for example, an autonomous vehicle, an intelligent vehicle, an electric vehicle, or a digital car. LiDAR can be deployed at various locations on the vehicle (see Figure 1B). For example, LiDAR can be deployed in any one or more of the four directions (front, rear, left, and right) to capture information about the vehicle's surrounding environment. Figure 1A shows an example of LiDAR deployed at the front of the vehicle. The LiDAR can sense the fan-shaped area indicated by the dashed box in Figure 1A; this fan-shaped area can be called the LiDAR's detection area (or field of view).

[0089] In one possible implementation, LiDAR can acquire the vehicle's latitude, longitude, speed, and orientation in real time or periodically, or the associated information (e.g., target distance, target speed, target attitude, or target grayscale image) of targets within a certain range (e.g., other surrounding vehicles). The LiDAR or vehicle can then determine its position and / or plan its path based on this associated information. For example, latitude and longitude can be used to determine the vehicle's position, speed and orientation can be used to determine the vehicle's future direction and destination, or the distance to surrounding objects can be used to determine the number and density of obstacles around the vehicle. Further, optionally, it can be combined with the functions of an advanced driving assistance system (ADAS) to achieve assisted driving or autonomous driving. It should be understood that the principle of LiDAR detecting target association information is as follows: the LiDAR emits detection light in a certain direction; if a target exists within the LiDAR's detection area, the target can reflect the received detection light back to the LiDAR (the reflected detection light can be called an echo signal), and the LiDAR then determines the target's association information based on the echo signal.

[0090] It should be noted that the above application scenarios are merely examples. The lidar provided in this application (including the optical waveguide component provided in this application) can also be applied to a variety of other possible scenarios, and is not limited to the scenarios exemplified above. For example, the lidar can also be installed on a drone as an airborne radar. Another example is that the lidar can be installed on a roadside unit (RSU) as a roadside traffic lidar, enabling intelligent vehicle-road cooperative communication. Yet another example is that the lidar can be installed on an automated guided vehicle (AGV), where AGV refers to a transport vehicle equipped with electromagnetic or optical automatic navigation devices, capable of traveling along a prescribed navigation path, and possessing safety protection and various transfer functions. These are just a few examples. It should be understood that the application scenarios described in this application are for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of this application and do not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in this application. Those skilled in the art will understand that with the emergence of new application scenarios, the technical solutions provided in this application are equally applicable to similar technical problems.

[0091] Based on the above, the above application scenarios can be applied to fields such as unmanned driving, autonomous driving, assisted driving, intelligent driving, connected vehicles, security monitoring, remote interaction, surveying and mapping, or artificial intelligence.

[0092] The following section, using Figures 2A and 2B as examples, introduces some relevant concepts of lidar.

[0093] LiDAR, also known as optical radar, is short for light detection and ranging system. It can also be called Laser Radar or LADAR (laser detection and ranging).

[0094] LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) uses light as its detection medium. It utilizes the emission and reception of laser light to detect targets, such as for ranging, velocity measurement, or azimuth measurement. LiDAR can measure target distance based on the laser's time-of-flight (TOF), which is the time difference between transmission and reception. Alternatively, it can measure target distance based on the phase difference between the emitted and received echo signals of the same laser. The greatest advantage of LiDAR lies in its ability to create clear three-dimensional (3D) images of targets using Doppler imaging technology. LiDAR collects information such as the 3D coordinates, reflectivity, and texture of numerous dense points on the target surface through laser emission and reception. Based on this information, it obtains a 3D model of the target, builds a 3D point cloud map, and creates an environmental map to achieve environmental perception. Compared to traditional passive imaging technologies such as visible light and infrared, lidar imaging technology overturns the traditional two-dimensional projection imaging mode. It can collect the depth information of the target surface, obtain relatively complete spatial information of the target, and reconstruct the three-dimensional surface of the target through data processing to obtain a three-dimensional graphic that better reflects the geometric shape of the target. At the same time, it can also obtain rich feature information such as the reflectivity of the target surface and the speed of movement, providing sufficient information support for data processing such as target detection, identification, and tracking, and reducing the difficulty of algorithms.

[0095] Please refer to Figure 2A, which is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a radar provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0096] As shown in Figure 2A, the lidar mainly includes a laser emitting part (or system) 100, a laser receiving part (or system) 200, and a signal processing part (or system) 300.

[0097] The laser emitting section 100 includes an excitation source (or laser driver), a laser, and an emitting optical system. The excitation source drives the laser to emit a laser beam (or laser pulse), which is then emitted outward through the emitting optical system. The laser receiving section 200 includes a receiving optical system and a detector. When the laser beam emitted from the lidar encounters a target object, it interacts with the object to form a reflected / scattered echo beam. This echo beam is collected by the receiving optical system and received by the detector, which converts the optical signal into an electrical signal. The electrical signal is then processed by an analog front-end and transmitted to the signal processing section 300. The signal processing section 300 processes the received signal to obtain information such as the target object's distance, velocity, and azimuth. Furthermore, it can acquire information such as the target's surface morphology and physical properties to build an object model. The detector is typically a photodetector, which converts the received light signal into an electrical signal. This electrical signal is usually an analog signal, while the signal processing unit 300 is typically used to process digital signals, such as a digital signal processor (DSP). Therefore, the analog electrical signal is converted into a digital signal by an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) and provided to the signal processing unit 300. Furthermore, the electrical signal can be amplified, and the amplified electrical signal is converted back to a digital signal by the ADC before being provided to the signal processing unit 300. The signal processing unit 300 includes signal processing circuitry for processing the digital signal to obtain information such as the target object's distance, velocity, and azimuth angle, and further constructs an object model. The lidar also includes control circuitry, such as a control unit for controlling the excitation source and a control unit for controlling the scanning drive circuit. These two control units can be integrated together or set up independently. Furthermore, the signal processing circuitry and the control circuitry can also be integrated together or set up independently.

[0098] In another implementation, the laser emitting section 100 may also include a laser modulator and a beam controller. The laser beam emitted by the laser passes through the beam controller, which, under the control of the laser modulator, controls the direction and number of lines of the emitted laser beam. The laser beam emitted from the beam controller is emitted outward through the emitting optical system.

[0099] In addition, the lidar may also include a scanning section (or system) 400. The laser beam emitted by the laser is scanned across a plane by the scanning section 400 to generate real-time planar image information. The scanning section 400 mainly includes a scanning mechanism and a scanning drive circuit. The scanning drive circuit drives the scanning mechanism to operate, and the laser beam, under the action of the scanning mechanism, transforms from a "line" to a "plane".

[0100] Taking the electronic scanning method as an example, please refer to Figure 2B. Figure 2B is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a radar provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0101] As shown in Figure 2B, this is a scanning method using an electrical scanning 1D laser array. This 1D laser array can also be called a 1D solid-state lidar. The laser structures in this 1D laser array include, but are not limited to, vertical cavity surface emitting lasers (VCSELs) and photonic crystal surface emitting lasers (PCSELs).

[0102] In 1D solid-state LiDAR applications, two transmission waveforms are often used: large pulse width and small pulse width. Large pulse width is used to obtain high power and increase detection range for detecting distant targets. Small pulse width is used to obtain low power for detecting nearby targets, while also improving range resolution.

[0103] For details, please refer to Figures 3A and 3B, which are schematic diagrams of the capacitor arrangement provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0104] As shown in Figure 3A, this 1D solid-state lidar uses capacitors with small capacitance values ​​to power the laser. The corresponding capacitors are small in size and are positioned on both sides of the laser, requiring only a single row of capacitors. Furthermore, due to the small capacitance value of the capacitors used for power supply, this 1D solid-state lidar generates narrow-width laser pulses with low transmission power, suitable for detecting close-range targets.

[0105] Optionally, the capacitor in Figure 3A can be placed on the front or back of the PCB. For example, the Cap in the solid frame can be placed on the front of the PCB, and the Cap in the dashed frame can be placed on the back of the PCB.

[0106] As shown in Figure 3B, this 1D solid-state lidar uses capacitors with large capacitance values ​​to power the laser. These capacitors are relatively large and are positioned on both sides of the laser, requiring a two-row layout. Furthermore, due to the large capacitance of the capacitors used for power supply, this 1D solid-state lidar generates wide-width laser pulses with high transmission power, enabling the detection of distant targets.

[0107] Optionally, the capacitor in Figure 3B can be placed on the front or back of the PCB. For example, the Cap in the solid frame can be placed on the front of the PCB, and the Cap in the dashed frame can be placed on the back of the PCB.

[0108] Currently, in 1D solid-state LiDAR, the common driving method is to select the laser emission path on the high-level side and drive the laser emission on the low-level side. This driving method is low-cost, but because each emission channel uses an independent capacitor, the number of capacitors is large. To improve the detection range, large-value capacitors are often used to power the laser, resulting in large capacitor sizes. Multiple rows of capacitors and lasers are required, increasing the length of the traces between the capacitors (especially peripheral capacitors) and the laser. This increases the inductance of the laser discharge loop, which in turn hinders the laser from outputting a smaller pulse width. Furthermore, in 1D solid-state LiDAR, the discharge loops between emission channels are not completely consistent, leading to significant differences in the consistency of laser pulse width and emission power between different emission channels.

[0109] In view of this, this application provides a transmitting system and related devices, relating to the field of lidar technology. By setting the layout of the energy storage array corresponding to the transmitter array, it is possible to generate smaller laser pulses without affecting the generation of wide laser pulses, and to improve the consistency of laser pulse width and transmission power among each transmitting channel.

[0110] The launch system and related devices provided in this application will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0111] Please refer to Figure 4, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of a launching system provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0112] As shown in Figure 4, the launch system includes:

[0113] First transmitter 41, first energy storage array 42, second energy storage array 43.

[0114] The first emitter 41 includes a first sub-emitting area 411 and a second sub-emitting area 412. It can be understood that the first sub-emitting area 411 and the second sub-emitting area 412 constitute the complete first emitter 41. The first emitter 41 includes N rows of emitting units, where N is an integer greater than 1. Each row of emitting units can include two lasers. Each laser can be divided into a padding area and a light-emitting area. The padding area is used for wiring connections with external devices, and the light-emitting area is used to emit a light beam. For example, the first sub-emitting area 411 includes lasers 4111, 4112, 4113, 4114, etc. The shaded area in laser 4111 is the padding area, used for wiring connections with external devices, and the blank area in laser 4111 is the light-emitting area, used for emitting a light beam. Other lasers are similar and will not be described in detail here. The second sub-emitting region 412 includes lasers 4121, 4122, 4123, 4124, etc. The shaded area in laser 4121 is a wire bonding area for wiring connections with external devices, and the blank area in laser 4121 is a light-emitting area for emitting beams. Other lasers are similar and will not be described in detail here. The energy storage array in this emission system may include one or more capacitors. For example, the first energy storage array 42 includes capacitors 421, 422, 423, 424, etc., and the second energy storage array 43 includes capacitors 431, 432, 433, 434, etc. The embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0115] The first sub-emission area 411 is connected to the first energy storage array 42. It can be understood that each laser in the first sub-emission area 411 is connected to each capacitor in the first energy storage array 42. For example, the shadow area (wire bonding area) of laser 4111 is connected to capacitor 421, the shadow area (wire bonding area) of laser 4112 is connected to capacitor 422, the shadow area (wire bonding area) of laser 4113 is connected to capacitor 423, the shadow area (wire bonding area) of laser 4114 is connected to capacitor 424, and so on. This application embodiment does not limit this. The second sub-emission region 412 is correspondingly connected to the second energy storage array 43. It can be understood that each laser in the second sub-emission region 412 is correspondingly connected to each capacitor in the second energy storage array 43. For example, the shadow area (wire bonding area) of laser 4121 is connected to capacitor 431, the shadow area (wire bonding area) of laser 4122 is connected to capacitor 432, the shadow area (wire bonding area) of laser 4123 is connected to capacitor 433, the shadow area (wire bonding area) of laser 4124 is connected to capacitor 434, and so on. This application embodiment does not limit this.

[0116] The first energy storage array 42 is used to power the first sub-emission region 411, enabling it to emit a light beam. Understandably, each capacitor in the first energy storage array 42 powers a specific laser in the first sub-emission region 411; for example, capacitor 421 powers laser 4111, capacitor 422 powers laser 4112, capacitor 423 powers laser 4113, capacitor 424 powers laser 4114, and so on. The second energy storage array 430 is used to power the second sub-emission region 412, enabling it to emit a light beam. Understandably, each capacitor in the second energy storage array 430 is used to power each laser in the second sub-emission region 412. For example, capacitor 431 is used to power laser 4121, capacitor 432 is used to power laser 4122, capacitor 433 is used to power laser 4123, capacitor 434 is used to power laser 4124, and so on.

[0117] The energy storage value of the first energy storage array 42 is greater than the energy storage value of the second energy storage array 43. This means that the energy storage value of each capacitor in the first energy storage array 42 is greater than the energy storage value of each capacitor in the second energy storage array 43. For example, the energy storage value of capacitor 421 is greater than the energy storage value of capacitor 431, the energy storage value of capacitor 422 is greater than the energy storage value of capacitor 432, the energy storage value of capacitor 423 is greater than the energy storage value of capacitor 433, the energy storage value of capacitor 424 is greater than the energy storage value of capacitor 434, and so on.

[0118] Since the energy storage value of the first energy storage array 42 is greater than that of the second energy storage array 43, the emission power of the first sub-emission region 411 must be correspondingly greater than that of the second sub-emission region 412. It can be understood that the emission power of each laser in the first sub-emission region 411 must be correspondingly greater than that of each laser in the second sub-emission region 412. For example, the emission power of laser 4111 is greater than that of laser 4121, the emission power of laser 4112 is greater than that of laser 4122, the emission power of laser 4113 is greater than that of laser 4123, the emission power of laser 4114 is greater than that of laser 4124, and so on.

[0119] Furthermore, since the energy storage value of the first energy storage array 42 is greater than that of the second energy storage array 43, the volume of the first energy storage array 42 must be correspondingly larger than the volume of the second energy storage array 43. It is understandable that the volume of each capacitor in the first energy storage array 42 must be correspondingly larger than the volume of each capacitor in the second energy storage array 43. For example, the volume of capacitor 421 is greater than the volume of capacitor 431, the volume of capacitor 422 is greater than the volume of capacitor 432, the volume of capacitor 423 is greater than the volume of capacitor 433, the volume of capacitor 424 is greater than the volume of capacitor 434, and so on.

[0120] The first energy storage array 42, the first sub-emission area 411, the second sub-emission area 412, and the second energy storage array 43 are arranged sequentially along a first direction, which is, for example, the x-axis direction in Figure 4. Since the volume of the first energy storage array 42 is larger than the volume of the second energy storage array 43, the first energy storage array 42 is arranged in two columns along the first direction, and the second energy storage array 43 is arranged in one column along the first direction.

[0121] Optionally, the second energy storage array 43 can also be configured with two or more columns in the first direction. When the volume of the second energy storage array 43 is too large to be accommodated by a single column layout in the first direction, it can be configured with multiple columns. However, the number of columns of the second energy storage array 43 in the first direction should be as small as possible so that the distance between the second energy storage array 43 and the second sub-emission region 412 is as small as possible, the wiring (i.e., current loop) is shorter, the loop inductance can be reduced, and thus a smaller width laser pulse can be achieved.

[0122] The transmitting system in this embodiment divides the transmitting channel into two parts according to the transmitting power. The first sub-transmitting area 411 is a high-power transmitting channel, and the second sub-transmitting area 412 is a low-power transmitting channel. The first sub-transmitting area 411 uses a first energy storage array 42 with a large energy storage value to ensure a large transmitting power, output a large pulse width, and improve the detection range for detecting distant targets. The second sub-transmitting area 412 uses a second energy storage array 43 with a smaller energy storage value. Since the second energy storage array 43 is smaller in size, it can be implemented by arranging it in a single column in the first direction. This makes the spacing between the second energy storage array 43 and the second sub-transmitting area 412 smaller, and the wiring (i.e., the current loop) shorter. Specifically, the wiring between capacitor 431 and laser 4121 is shorter, the wiring between capacitor 432 and laser 4122 is shorter, the wiring between capacitor 433 and laser 4123 is shorter, the wiring between capacitor 434 and laser 4124 is shorter, and so on. This reduces the loop inductance and thus enables a smaller width laser pulse for detecting close-range targets.

[0123] Therefore, by configuring the energy storage array corresponding to the transmitter in the embodiments of this application, smaller laser pulses can be generated simultaneously without affecting the generation of wide laser pulses. Furthermore, the consistent discharge loops between each transmission channel improve the consistency of laser pulse width and transmission power across all transmission channels.

[0124] Optionally, the first sub-emission area 411 is arranged along the second direction, and the second sub-emission area 412 is arranged along the second direction.

[0125] The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction mentioned above. For example, the second direction is the y-axis direction in Figure 4.

[0126] It is understood that the first sub-emission area 411 includes multiple lasers 4111, 4112, 4113, 4114, etc., and the first sub-emission area 411 is arranged along the arrangement direction (i.e., the second direction) of the emission channels corresponding to the multiple lasers, and this second direction is perpendicular to the first direction mentioned above. The second sub-emission area 412 includes multiple lasers 4121, 4122, 4123, 4124, etc., and the second sub-emission area 412 is arranged along the arrangement direction (i.e., the second direction) of the emission channels corresponding to the multiple lasers, and this second direction is perpendicular to the first direction mentioned above.

[0127] Optionally, the first sub-emission area 411 is used to emit a first beam, and the second sub-emission area 412 is used to emit a second beam.

[0128] The pulse width of the first beam is greater than that of the second beam.

[0129] Understandably, the second sub-emission region 412 emits a second beam under the power of the second energy storage array 43. Since the energy storage value of the first energy storage array 42 is greater than that of the second energy storage array 43, the emission power of the first sub-emission region 411 is greater than that of the second sub-emission region 412. Accordingly, the pulse width of the first beam is greater than that of the second beam, so as to achieve the generation of a smaller laser pulse without affecting the generation of a wide laser pulse.

[0130] Optionally, the first sub-emission area 411, the second sub-emission area 412, the first energy storage array 42, and the second energy storage array 43 are disposed on the PCB.

[0131] Furthermore, the first energy storage array 42 and the second energy storage array 43 can be disposed on the front side of the PCB or on the back side of the PCB, and this application does not limit this.

[0132] For example, capacitors 421, 423, etc. in the first energy storage array 42 are disposed on the front side of the PCB, and capacitors 422, 424, etc. in the first energy storage array 42 are disposed on the back side of the PCB. Capacitors 431, 433, etc. in the second energy storage array 43 are disposed on the front side of the PCB, and capacitors 432, 434, etc. in the second energy storage array 43 are disposed on the back side of the PCB.

[0133] Optionally, the first sub-emission area 411 and the second sub-emission area 412 may emit beams simultaneously or in a time-division manner.

[0134] It is understood that the first sub-emitting region 411 and the second sub-emitting region 412 can emit beams simultaneously or in a time-division manner, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this. Optionally, the above-described emission system may further include a switch array for controlling the opening or closing of the first sub-emitting region 411 and the second sub-emitting region 412 respectively, so as to realize the simultaneous emission or time-division emission of beams by the first sub-emitting region 411 and the second sub-emitting region 412.

[0135] In one possible embodiment, the above-described launching system further includes a drive unit 50.

[0136] For details, please refer to Figure 5, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of a launch system provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0137] As shown in Figure 5, the drive unit 50 is connected to the first sub-emission area 411 and the second sub-emission area 412 respectively.

[0138] The driving unit 50 is used to drive the first sub-emission area 411 and the second sub-emission area 412 to emit beams.

[0139] Specifically, the drive unit 50 may include one or more drivers, as described below in different cases.

[0140] Scenario 1:

[0141] The drive unit 50 includes a driver.

[0142] The driver is disposed at the beginning or end of the first sub-emission area 411 or the second sub-emission area 412 along a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction. For example, the second direction is the y-axis direction in FIG5.

[0143] It is understood that the driver is positioned at the beginning or end of the first sub-emitting region 411 or the second sub-emitting region 412 along the second direction, which is beneficial for heat dissipation of the driver. Optionally, the driver may also be positioned in the middle or other positions of the first sub-emitting region 411 or the second sub-emitting region 412 along the second direction, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0144] Scenario 2:

[0145] The drive unit 50 includes at least two drivers.

[0146] The at least two drivers are used to drive the first sub-emission area 411 and the second sub-emission area 412 to emit beams. The driving capability and the power of the transmitter can be improved by using multiple drivers.

[0147] For details, please refer to Figure 6, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of a launch system provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0148] As shown in Figure 6, the drive unit 50 includes a first driver 501 and a second driver 502.

[0149] The first driver 501 and the second driver 502 are used to drive the first sub-emission area 411 and the second sub-emission area 412 to emit beams.

[0150] The first driver 501 and the second driver 502 are respectively disposed at both ends of the first sub-emission area 411 and the second sub-emission area 412 along a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction. For example, the second direction is the y-axis direction in FIG6.

[0151] It is understood that the first driver 501 and the second driver 502 are respectively disposed at both ends of the first sub-emitting region 411 and the second sub-emitting region 412 along the second direction, which is beneficial to the heat dissipation of the driver. Optionally, the first driver 501 and the second driver 502 may also be disposed in the middle of the first sub-emitting region 411 and the second sub-emitting region 412 or at other positions along the second direction, and this application does not limit this.

[0152] Optionally, the first driver 501 and the second driver 502 are arranged in a mirror image, which helps to optimize the wiring design between various modules in the launch system and improve space utilization.

[0153] It should be understood that Situations 1 and 2 described above are merely two exemplary cases illustrating the location layout of the driver and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application. New embodiments derived from reasonable modifications or additions to Situations 1 and 2 described above also fall within the protection scope of this application.

[0154] In one possible embodiment, for the transmission system architecture of the driving unit 50 in the above-described second case, which includes a first driver 501 and a second driver 502, different driving methods are also provided, which will be described below.

[0155] Method 1:

[0156] The first sub-emitting region 411 and the second sub-emitting region 412 emit beams by controlling the levels of the control signal (triger, Trig) and the enable pin of the driver.

[0157] For details, please refer to Figure 6. As shown in Figure 6, the launching system also includes a control unit 60.

[0158] The control unit 60 is used to send control signals (Trig) to control the first driver 501 and the second driver 502 to turn on or off.

[0159] When the control signal (Trig) is high and the first enable pin (Enable1) of the first driver 501 is high, the first driver 501 is used to drive the first sub-emission area 411 and the second sub-emission area 412 to emit beams.

[0160] When the control signal (Trig) is high and the second enable pin (Enable2) of the second driver 502 is high, the second driver 502 is used to drive the first sub-emission area 411 and the second sub-emission area 412 to emit beams.

[0161] Understandably, when both the control signal (Trig) and the enable pin (Enable) of the driver are at a high level, the driver is used to drive the first sub-emission area 411 and the second sub-emission area 412 to emit light beams. The signal of the enable pin (Enable) is a level signal, and the control signal (Trig) is a pulse signal used to control the opening or closing of the first driver 501 and the second driver 502.

[0162] This method allows for the independent or simultaneous activation of the first driver 501 and the second driver 502, thus adjusting the driving capability.

[0163] Method 2:

[0164] The first sub-emission region 411 and the second sub-emission region 412 emit beams by adjusting the levels of the first control signal (Trig1) and the second control signal (Trig2).

[0165] For details, please refer to Figure 7, which is a schematic diagram of the structure of a launch system provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0166] As shown in Figure 7, the launch system also includes a control unit 60.

[0167] The control unit 60 is used to send a first control signal (Trig1) to control the first driver 501 to turn on or off; it is also used to send a second control signal (Trig2) to control the second driver 502 to turn on or off.

[0168] When the first control signal (Trig1) is high, the first driver 501 is used to drive the first sub-emission area 411 and the second sub-emission area 412 to emit beams.

[0169] When the second control signal (Trig2) is high, the second driver 502 is used to drive the first sub-emission area 411 and the second sub-emission area 412 to emit beams.

[0170] It is understood that the first control signal (Trig1) controls the first driver 501 to turn on or off, thereby driving the first sub-emitting region 411 and the second sub-emitting region 412 to emit light beams, and the second control signal (Trig2) controls the second driver 502 to turn on or off, thereby driving the first sub-emitting region 411 and the second sub-emitting region 412 to emit light beams. The first control signal (Trig1) and the second control signal (Trig2) are pulse signals.

[0171] This second method allows for the independent or simultaneous activation of the first driver 501 and the second driver 502, adjusting the driving capability. Furthermore, the difference in activation delay between the first driver 501 and the second driver 502 can be compensated for by the delay of the first control signal (Trig1) and the second control signal (Trig2).

[0172] It should be understood that the above-described methods one and two are merely examples illustrating the driving methods and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application. New embodiments derived from reasonable modifications or additions to the above-described methods one and two also fall within the protection scope of this application.

[0173] Alternatively, the transmitting systems in Figures 4 to 7 above can be described in conjunction with specific circuit structures. For details, please refer to Figure 8, which is a circuit diagram of a transmitting system provided in this application.

[0174] As shown in Figure 8, the first sub-emission area 411 in Figure 8 corresponds to the first sub-emission area 411 in Figures 4 to 7, the second sub-emission area 412 in Figure 8 corresponds to the second sub-emission area 412 in Figures 4 to 7, the first energy storage array 42 in Figure 8 corresponds to the first energy storage array 42 in Figures 4 to 7, the second energy storage array 43 in Figure 8 corresponds to the second energy storage array 43 in Figures 4 to 7, and the drive unit 50 in Figure 8 corresponds to the drive unit 50 in Figure 5.

[0175] Optionally, Figure 8 also includes a switch array for controlling the opening or closing of the first sub-emission area 411 and the second sub-emission area 412 respectively, so as to realize that the first sub-emission area 411 and the second sub-emission area 412 emit beams simultaneously or emit beams in a time-division manner.

[0176] As shown in Figure 8, the first sub-emission region 411 uses a first energy storage array 42 with a large energy storage value to ensure high transmission power, output a large pulse width, and improve detection range for detecting distant targets. The second sub-emission region 412 uses a second energy storage array 43 with a smaller energy storage value. Due to the smaller size of the second energy storage array 43, the spacing between the capacitor in the second energy storage array 43 and the laser in the second sub-emission region 412 is smaller, and the wiring (i.e., current loop) is shorter, which can reduce loop inductance and thus achieve a smaller laser pulse width for detecting close-range targets. Therefore, a smaller laser pulse width can be generated simultaneously without affecting the generation of a large laser pulse width.

[0177] In one possible embodiment, the launching system shown in Figures 4 to 8 above may further include:

[0178] Second transmitter 71, third energy storage array 72, fourth energy storage array 73.

[0179] For details, please refer to Figures 9 and 10, which are schematic diagrams of the structure of the launch system provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0180] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the second emitter 71 includes a third sub-emitting area 711 and a fourth sub-emitting area 712. It can be understood that the third sub-emitting area 711 and the fourth sub-emitting area 712 constitute the complete second emitter 71. The second emitter 71 includes N rows of emitting units, where N is an integer greater than 1. Each row of emitting units can include two lasers. Each laser can be divided into a padding area and a light-emitting area. The padding area is used for wiring connections with external devices, and the light-emitting area is used to emit a light beam. For example, the third sub-emitting area 711 includes lasers 7111, 7112, 7113, 7114, etc. The shaded area in laser 7111 is the padding area, used for wiring connections with external devices, and the blank area in laser 7111 is the light-emitting area, used to emit a light beam. Other lasers are similar and will not be described in detail here. The fourth sub-emitting region 712 includes lasers 7121, 7122, 7123, 7124, etc. The shaded area in laser 7121 is a wire bonding area used for wiring connections with external devices, and the blank area in laser 7121 is a light-emitting area used for emitting beams. Other lasers are similar and will not be described in detail here. The energy storage array in this emitting system may include one or more capacitors. For example, the third energy storage array 72 includes capacitors 721, 722, 723, 724, etc., and the fourth energy storage array 73 includes capacitors 731, 732, 733, 734, etc. The embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0181] The third sub-emission region 711 is connected to the third energy storage array 72. It can be understood that each laser in the third sub-emission region 711 is connected to each capacitor in the third energy storage array 72. For example, the shadow area (wire bonding area) of laser 7111 is connected to capacitor 721, the shadow area (wire bonding area) of laser 7112 is connected to capacitor 722, the shadow area (wire bonding area) of laser 7113 is connected to capacitor 723, the shadow area (wire bonding area) of laser 7114 is connected to capacitor 724, and so on. The embodiments of this application do not limit this. The fourth sub-emission region 712 is correspondingly connected to the fourth energy storage array 73. It can be understood that each laser in the fourth sub-emission region 712 is correspondingly connected to each capacitor in the fourth energy storage array 73. For example, the shadow area (wire bonding area) of laser 7121 is connected to capacitor 731, the shadow area (wire bonding area) of laser 7122 is connected to capacitor 732, the shadow area (wire bonding area) of laser 7123 is connected to capacitor 733, the shadow area (wire bonding area) of laser 7124 is connected to capacitor 734, and so on. The embodiments of this application do not limit this.

[0182] The third energy storage array 72 powers the third sub-emission region 711, enabling it to emit a light beam. Understandably, each capacitor in the third energy storage array 72 powers a specific laser in the third sub-emission region 711; for example, capacitor 721 powers laser 7111, capacitor 722 powers laser 7112, capacitor 723 powers laser 7113, capacitor 724 powers laser 7114, and so on. The fourth energy storage array 73 powers the fourth sub-emission region 712, enabling it to emit a light beam. Understandably, each capacitor in the fourth energy storage array 73 is used to power each laser in the fourth sub-emission region 712. For example, capacitor 731 is used to power laser 7121, capacitor 732 is used to power laser 7122, capacitor 733 is used to power laser 7123, capacitor 734 is used to power laser 7124, and so on.

[0183] The energy storage value of the third energy storage array 72 is greater than that of the fourth energy storage array 73. This means that the energy storage value of each capacitor in the third energy storage array 72 is greater than that of each capacitor in the fourth energy storage array 73. For example, the energy storage value of capacitor 721 is greater than that of capacitor 731, the energy storage value of capacitor 722 is greater than that of capacitor 732, the energy storage value of capacitor 723 is greater than that of capacitor 733, the energy storage value of capacitor 724 is greater than that of capacitor 734, and so on.

[0184] Since the energy storage value of the third energy storage array 72 is greater than that of the fourth energy storage array 73, the emission power of the third sub-emission region 711 must be correspondingly greater than that of the fourth sub-emission region 712. It can be understood that the emission power of each laser in the third sub-emission region 711 must be correspondingly greater than that of each laser in the fourth sub-emission region 712. For example, the emission power of laser 7111 is greater than that of laser 7121, the emission power of laser 7112 is greater than that of laser 7122, the emission power of laser 7113 is greater than that of laser 7123, the emission power of laser 7114 is greater than that of laser 7124, and so on.

[0185] Furthermore, since the energy storage value of the third energy storage array 72 is greater than that of the fourth energy storage array 73, the volume of the third energy storage array 72 must be correspondingly larger than the volume of the fourth energy storage array 73. Understandably, the volume of each capacitor in the third energy storage array 72 must be correspondingly larger than the volume of each capacitor in the fourth energy storage array 73. For example, the volume of capacitor 721 is greater than the volume of capacitor 731, the volume of capacitor 722 is greater than the volume of capacitor 732, the volume of capacitor 723 is greater than the volume of capacitor 733, the volume of capacitor 724 is greater than the volume of capacitor 734, and so on.

[0186] Furthermore, since the volume of the third energy storage array 72 is larger than that of the fourth energy storage array 73, the third energy storage array 72 is configured as two columns in the first direction, and the fourth energy storage array 73 is configured as one column in the first direction. For example, the first direction is the x-axis direction in Figures 8 and 9.

[0187] Optionally, the fourth energy storage array 73 can also be configured with two or more columns in the first direction. When the volume of the fourth energy storage array 73 is too large to be accommodated by a single column layout in the first direction, it can be configured with multiple columns. However, the number of columns of the fourth energy storage array 73 in the first direction should be as small as possible so that the distance between the fourth energy storage array 73 and the fourth sub-emission region 712 is as small as possible, the wiring (i.e., current loop) is shorter, the loop inductance can be reduced, and thus a smaller width laser pulse can be achieved.

[0188] It is understood that the third sub-emission area 711 in this application is similar to the first sub-emission area 411, the fourth sub-emission area 712 is similar to the second sub-emission area 412, the third energy storage array 72 is similar to the first energy storage array 42, and the fourth energy storage array 73 is similar to the second energy storage array 43.

[0189] In the transmitting system of this application embodiment, the transmitting channel is divided into two according to the transmitting power, with the transmitting channel pins arranged left and right. At the same wavenumber, this doubles the number of transmitter pins and connected capacitors. With the number of transmitting channels remaining constant, the longitudinal (y-axis) light-emitting area of ​​the transmitter doubles, resulting in an excessively large aspect ratio (the ratio of length in the y-axis direction to width in the x-axis direction), which may lead to breakage and affect the device reliability of the transmitting system. Therefore, two sets of transmitters (i.e., the first sub-transmitting area 411 and the second sub-transmitting area 412, the third sub-transmitting area 711, and the fourth sub-transmitting area 712) can be used to ensure that the total number of transmitting channels remains constant, halving the number of transmitting channels in the original single set of transmitters (i.e., the first sub-transmitting area 411 and the second sub-transmitting area 412), reducing the aspect ratio of the transmitter, and improving the device reliability of the transmitting system.

[0190] Furthermore, the third sub-emission area 711 and the first sub-emission area 411 (or the fourth sub-emission area 712 and the second sub-emission area 412) have a first offset in the second direction. The first offset is N+0.5 transmission channels, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 0 and less than the number of transmission channels in the first sub-emission area 411. The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction. For example, the second direction is the y-axis direction in Figures 8 and 9.

[0191] For example, the third sub-emission area 711 and the first sub-emission area 411 in Figures 9 and 10 have a first offset of 0.5 transmission channels in the second direction, which can improve the resolution of the offset area by at least 100%, thereby improving the detection performance of the transmission system.

[0192] In one possible embodiment, the location arrangement of the various launch areas and energy storage arrays in the above-described launch system may vary, and will be described in detail below.

[0193] Scenario 1:

[0194] As shown in Figure 9, the first energy storage array 42, the first sub-emission area 411, the second sub-emission area 412, the second energy storage array 43, the fourth energy storage array 73, the fourth sub-emission area 712, the third sub-emission area 711, and the third energy storage array 72 are arranged sequentially along the first direction.

[0195] Understandably, in this scenario, the second sub-transmission area 412 and the fourth sub-transmission area 712 corresponding to the low-power transmission channel can be set up adjacent to each other, while the first sub-transmission area 411 and the third sub-transmission area 711 corresponding to the high-power transmission channel can be set up on both sides respectively. This is beneficial for optimizing the wiring design between the various arrays in the transmission system and improving space utilization.

[0196] Scenario 2:

[0197] As shown in Figure 10, the first energy storage array 42, the first sub-emission area 411, the second sub-emission area 412, the second energy storage array 43, the third energy storage array 72, the third sub-emission area 711, the fourth sub-emission area 712, and the fourth energy storage array 73 are arranged sequentially along the first direction.

[0198] Understandably, in this second scenario, the transmission areas corresponding to the high-power transmission channel and the low-power transmission channel can be set up adjacent to each other to improve the reliability of the transmission system's components.

[0199] It should be understood that Situations 1 and 2 described above are merely two exemplary cases illustrating the location layout of various launch areas and energy storage arrays in the launch system, and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application. New embodiments derived from reasonable modifications or additions to Situations 1 and 2 described above also fall within the protection scope of this application.

[0200] Optionally, the first energy storage array 42, the second energy storage array 43, the third energy storage array 72, and the fourth energy storage array 73 share the same charging channel, which can halve the number of charging channels and achieve miniaturization of the launch system.

[0201] Alternatively, each energy storage array in the launch system may use a different charging channel, and this application does not impose any restrictions on this.

[0202] It should be understood that the launch systems shown in Figures 9 and 10 above are merely two examples illustrating launch systems including multiple transmitters and multiple energy storage arrays, and should not be construed as limiting the embodiments of this application. New embodiments derived from reasonable modifications or additions to the launch systems shown in Figures 9 and 10 above also fall within the protection scope of this application.

[0203] This application provides a chip that includes the transmission system provided in this application.

[0204] This application provides a radar or radar system, which includes the transmitting system provided in this application or the chip described above.

[0205] In one possible implementation, the radar includes, but is not limited to, lidar.

[0206] In one possible implementation, there may be a smart sensor that integrates multiple sensors. In the case that the smart sensor includes, but is not limited to, laser detection functions, the smart sensor may also be called a radar or radar system.

[0207] This application also provides a terminal device, which includes the transmitting system, chip, radar, or radar system provided in this application. For example, the terminal device can be a means of transportation, such as a car, truck, aircraft, drone, slow-moving vehicle, spacecraft, or ship, or any other possible vehicle used in any scenario. It can also be any device capable of carrying a detection device, such as surveying equipment. One or more transmitting systems, chips, radars, or radar systems provided in this application are deployed on the terminal device.

[0208] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A launching system, characterized in that, include: First transmitter, first energy storage array, second energy storage array; The first transmitter includes a first sub-transmission area and a second sub-transmission area, the first sub-transmission area being connected to the first energy storage array, and the second sub-transmission area being connected to the second energy storage array. The first energy storage array is used to power the first sub-emission area, and the second energy storage array is used to power the second sub-emission area. The energy storage value of the first energy storage array is greater than the energy storage value of the second energy storage array, and the transmission power of the first sub-emission area is greater than the transmission power of the second sub-emission area. The first energy storage array, the first sub-emission area, the second sub-emission area, and the second energy storage array are arranged sequentially along a first direction. The first energy storage array is set in two columns in the first direction, and the second energy storage array is set in one column in the first direction.

2. The launching system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first sub-emission area is arranged along the second direction, and the second sub-emission area is arranged along the second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction.

3. The launching system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first sub-emission area is used to emit a first beam, and the second sub-emission area is used to emit a second beam. The pulse width of the first beam is greater than the pulse width of the second beam.

4. The launching system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The first sub-emission area, the second sub-emission area, the first energy storage array, and the second energy storage array are disposed on a printed circuit board (PCB).

5. The launching system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The first sub-emission area and the second sub-emission area emit beams simultaneously or emit beams in a time-division manner.

6. The launching system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The launch system also includes: Drive unit; The driving unit is connected to the first sub-emission area and the second sub-emission area respectively; The driving unit is used to drive the first sub-emission area and the second sub-emission area to emit beams.

7. The launching system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The driving unit includes a driver, which is disposed at the beginning or end of the first sub-emission area or the second sub-emission area along a second direction, the second direction being perpendicular to the first direction.

8. The launching system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The driving unit includes at least two drivers, which are used to drive the first sub-emission area and the second sub-emission area to emit beams.

9. The launching system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The at least two drivers include a first driver and a second driver, which are respectively disposed at both ends of the first sub-emission area and the second sub-emission area along a second direction, which is perpendicular to the first direction.

10. The launching system according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first driver and the second driver are arranged in a mirror image.

11. The launching system according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, When the control signal is high and the first enable pin of the first driver is high, the first driver is used to drive the first sub-emitting region and the second sub-emitting region to emit beams. When the control signal is high and the second enable pin of the second driver is high, the second driver is used to drive the first sub-emitting region and the second sub-emitting region to emit beams; The control signal is used to control the first driver and the second driver to turn on or off.

12. The launching system according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, When the first control signal is high, the first driver is used to drive the first sub-emission area and the second sub-emission area to emit beams; When the second control signal is high, the second driver is used to drive the first sub-emission area and the second sub-emission area to emit beams; The first control signal is used to control the first driver to turn on or off, and the second control signal is used to control the second driver to turn on or off.

13. The launching system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that, The launch system also includes: Second transmitter, third energy storage array, fourth energy storage array; The second transmitter includes a third sub-transmission area and a fourth sub-transmission area, wherein the third sub-transmission area is connected to the third energy storage array and the fourth sub-transmission area is connected to the fourth energy storage array. The third energy storage array is used to power the third sub-emission area, the fourth energy storage array is used to power the fourth sub-emission area, the energy storage value of the third energy storage array is greater than the energy storage value of the fourth energy storage array, the third energy storage array is arranged in two columns in the first direction, the fourth energy storage array is arranged in one column in the first direction, and the transmission power of the third sub-emission area is greater than the transmission power of the fourth sub-emission area. The third sub-emission area and the first sub-emission area are offset in a second direction. The first offset is N+0.5 transmission channels, where N is an integer greater than or equal to 0 and less than the number of transmission channels in the first sub-emission area. The second direction is perpendicular to the first direction.

14. The launching system according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first energy storage array, the first sub-emission area, the second sub-emission area, the second energy storage array, the fourth energy storage array, the fourth sub-emission area, the third sub-emission area, and the third energy storage array are arranged sequentially along the first direction.

15. The launching system according to claim 13, characterized in that, The first energy storage array, the first sub-emission area, the second sub-emission area, the second energy storage array, the third energy storage array, the third sub-emission area, the fourth sub-emission area, and the fourth energy storage array are arranged sequentially along the first direction.

16. The launching system according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that, The first energy storage array, the second energy storage array, the third energy storage array, and the fourth energy storage array share the same charging channel.

17. A chip, characterized in that, The chip includes the transmission system according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

18. A radar, characterized in that, The radar includes the transmitting system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, or the chip according to claim 17.

19. A terminal device, characterized in that, The terminal device includes the transmitting system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, or the chip according to claim 17, or the radar according to claim 18.

20. A vehicle end, characterized in that, The vehicle end includes the transmitting system according to any one of claims 1 to 16, or the chip according to claim 17, or the radar according to claim 18, or the terminal device according to claim 19.

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