Array Lidar Field of View Adjustment via Illuminator Dynamics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional array lidar systems have a static field of view due to a fixed arrangement of illuminators and lenses, limiting their adaptability to changing environments and applications, such as varying road conditions and obstacle detection in automotive scenarios.
Innovation Solution
The system allows for controllable changes in the field of view by adjusting the arrangement of illuminators among themselves and relative to the lens, using mechanisms like linear actuators, MEMS, and shape memory alloys, enabling dynamic adjustments based on auxiliary sensor data to maintain optimal beam alignment and coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the illuminators are arranged in a static configuration, then the system structure is simple and stable, but the field of view cannot be adjusted to adapt to different environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the static illuminator arrangement into a dynamic, adjustable configuration. The illuminators are mounted on movable platforms (such as adjustable mounts or movable carriages) that can change their positions relative to the lens, enabling the field of view to be dynamically adjusted according to different detection requirements and environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by designing an adjustable illuminator arrangement that can serve multiple functions. The same illuminator array can be repositioned to achieve different fields of view, making the system versatile for various detection scenarios such as long-range detection, short-range detection, and panoramic scanning, thereby replacing the need for multiple fixed systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the illuminators are fixed in position, then the system is stable and easy to operate, but it cannot adapt to varying road conditions and obstacle detection requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by incorporating sensors that detect environmental conditions (such as distance to obstacles, road elevation changes, or target positions) and use this information to automatically adjust the illuminator positions. The control system receives feedback from the detection environment and dynamically repositions the illuminators to optimize the field of view for the current situation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static to a dynamic configuration where illuminators can be automatically repositioned based on detected environmental conditions. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to adapt to varying road conditions, elevation changes, and obstacle positions while maintaining ease of operation through automated control.
3Area of stationary object
If a single lens is used to spread beams, then the optical path is simple, but the field of view coverage is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the optical system into multiple independent optical paths, each with its own lens. Instead of relying on a single lens to cover the entire field of view, the system uses multiple lenses (such as a first lens and a second lens) that can be independently positioned and adjusted, collectively providing broader and more flexible field of view coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dimensionality change by adding spatial degrees of freedom to the optical system. The multiple lenses are arranged in different positions and orientations, and the illuminators can be moved to different locations, effectively utilizing three-dimensional space to expand the field of view coverage beyond what a single lens could provide.
Data Source
AI summary
An array lidar system on a platform and a method of operating an array lidar system on a platform including a plurality of illuminators in an array transmitting through a lens includes establishing an initial arrangement of the plurality of illuminators among each other and an initial arrangement of the plurality of illuminators relative to the lens to define an initial field of view of the array lidar system. The method also includes controllably changing the initial field of view to a second field of view.