Bi-directional Optical Integrated Circuit Array for LiDAR
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical systems, such as LiDAR, face challenges in efficiently obtaining bi-directional location and geometric information of targets due to limitations in transmitting and receiving light simultaneously in multiple directions, often requiring complex configurations and higher costs.
Innovation Solution
A bi-directional optical integrated circuit device array is developed, featuring a substrate with multiple bi-directional optical integrated circuit units, each comprising a single wavelength laser light source, a bi-directional optical device, and an antenna, allowing for simultaneous transmission and reception of light in all directions without the need for wavelength variable lasers or phase-controlled antennas, thus enabling precise location and geometric information acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If wavelength variable lasers and phase-controlled antennas are used to achieve bi-directional light transmission and reception, then the capability to obtain location and geometric information is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into multiple independent optical integrated circuit unit devices arranged in a two-dimensional pattern on a substrate. Each unit device independently performs light transmission and reception functions, eliminating the need for complex wavelength switching or phase control mechanisms while achieving bi-directional communication capability through spatial distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
Each optical integrated circuit unit device is designed to perform multiple functions: it can both transmit light signals and receive reflected light signals, and can determine both location and geometric information. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized components for each function, reducing overall system complexity.
2Measurement precision
If multiple wavelength lasers and phase-controlled antennas are deployed to achieve simultaneous transmission and reception in multiple directions, then the location and geometric information acquisition is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple identical, simple optical unit devices instead of a few complex ones. Each unit device uses a single wavelength laser and basic optical components that are easy to manufacture. The collective array of these simple units achieves the precision needed for location and geometric information without requiring expensive wavelength-tunable lasers or phase-controlled antennas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs multiple copies of the same simple optical integrated circuit unit device arranged in a two-dimensional pattern. Instead of using one complex device with multiple capabilities, the system replicates a simple, easily manufactured unit device multiple times. This copying approach maintains measurement precision through spatial distribution while keeping individual component complexity and manufacturing cost low.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complex optical configurations are used to transmit and receive light simultaneously, then the bi-directional communication capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into multiple independent unit devices that operate simultaneously but independently. Each unit device has a simple optical configuration with a laser light source, optical device, and antenna. The segmentation allows simultaneous transmission and reception across the array without requiring complex optical switching or routing within individual devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional or point-based optical system to a two-dimensional array of optical unit devices. This dimensional expansion allows the system to achieve bi-directional communication capability through spatial distribution rather than through complex temporal or spectral multiplexing within a single device, thereby reducing optical configuration complexity.
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 solution enables cost-effective and scalable bi-directional optical systems that can efficiently transmit and receive light, allowing for precise location and geometric information acquisition of targets, enhancing the capability of optical systems like LiDAR without the complexity and cost of existing solutions.
Implementation Method 1
a single wavelength laser light source integrated on the substrate
Implementation Method 2
a bi-directional optical device integrated on the substrate and optically connected to the laser light source... to amplify light emitted from the laser light source
Implementation Method 3
transmit amplified light to a surrounding environment through an antenna
Implementation Method 4
receive light reflected by the surrounding environment through the antenna
Implementation Method 5
a lens between the target and the bi-directional optical integrated circuit device array
Data Source
AI summary
The bi-directional optical integrated circuit device array includes a plurality of bi-directional optical integrated circuit unit devices integrated on a substrate and arranged in two-dimensions. Each of the bi-directional optical integrated circuit unit devices includes a single wavelength laser light source integrated on the substrate, a bi-directional optical device integrated on the substrate and optically connected to the laser light source, and an antenna integrated on the substrate and optically connected to the bi-directional optical device.