Adaptive Lidar Code Switching for Cross-Vehicle Interference
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lidar sensor systems in autonomous vehicles are susceptible to interference from other lidar systems, leading to inaccurate point clouds and reduced performance as the number of vehicles increases, especially when multiple systems are used in close proximity.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a code into the light signals emitted by lidar sensor systems that can differentiate them from signals emitted by other systems, allowing the detection of interference and adjustment of codes based on orientation, geospatial position, and detected interference, thereby reducing the likelihood of interference by altering the codes in the light signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional lidar sensor systems detect light signals within a predefined frequency band, then the system can operate with simple detection mechanisms, but the detector is susceptible to interference from other lidar systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the principle of color changes by modulating the light signal with unique codes that differentiate between different lidar systems. Each lidar system emits light with a specific code pattern (like a optical fingerprint), allowing the detector to identify and filter signals from its own system versus interference from other systems. This is achieved through code modulation of the light signal characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by varying the code parameters of the emitted light signals. Each lidar system uses distinct code parameters (such as pulse timing patterns, frequency modulation codes, or amplitude modulation sequences) to encode its signals. The detector compares received signal parameters against expected parameters to distinguish self-generated signals from external interference, thereby improving reliability while managing interference.
2Productivity
If the number of autonomous vehicles and lidar sensor systems increases, then the coverage and capability of autonomous vehicle fleets improve, but instances of interference between lidar systems increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the shared electromagnetic spectrum into distinct coded channels. Each lidar system is assigned a unique code that segments the overall signal space, allowing multiple systems to operate simultaneously without interference. The detector segments incoming signals by decoding and identifying the source code, enabling the system to process only relevant signals while ignoring others.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the computing system monitors detected interference levels and dynamically adjusts the codes used by the lidar sensor system. When interference is detected, the system can switch to alternative codes or adjust code parameters to avoid conflicting with other nearby lidar systems, creating an adaptive interference management system that scales with fleet density.
3Ease of operation
If the lidar sensor system uses a fixed code in light signals, then the system operation is simple, but the system cannot adapt to avoid interference with other lidar systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the code used by the lidar sensor system changeable rather than fixed. The computing system can dynamically select and switch between multiple available codes based on the operational environment and detected interference patterns. This allows the lidar system to adapt its code selection in real-time while maintaining relatively simple operation through automated code management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback where the system monitors the operational environment for interference and automatically adjusts the code selection. When interference from other lidar systems is detected, the feedback mechanism triggers a code change to avoid the conflicting signal. This maintains ease of operation by automating the adaptation process, requiring minimal user intervention while providing versatile interference avoidance.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach effectively mitigates interference by ensuring that each lidar system emits unique codes, reducing the probability of incorrect signal detection and improving the accuracy of point cloud generation and vehicle navigation.
Implementation Method 1
The light signal reflects off an object and returns to a detector of the lidar sensor system
Implementation Method 2
Based on a time between when the lidar sensor system emits the light signal and when the detector detects the light signal after the light signal has reflected off the object, the lidar sensor system can determine a distance
Data Source
AI summary
An autonomous vehicle having a lidar sensor system is described. A computing system is configured to determine that the lidar sensor system is to update a code that is included in light signals emitted by the lidar sensor system. The computing system transmits a command signal to the lidar sensor system, wherein the command signal causes the lidar sensor system to transition from emitting light signals with a first code therein to emitting light signals with a second code therein, wherein the first code is different from the second code.