Coherent LiDAR Transceiver Multiplexing for Compact Multi-Channel Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional LIDAR systems face challenges in scaling down for automotive applications due to the bulkiness of fiber coupling, which limits the addition of channels and integration into compact vehicle systems.
Innovation Solution
A multi-channel dual polarization coherent (DPC) LIDAR transceiver is configured for time-domain multiplexing, allowing optical signals to be transmitted through different input/output channels during specific time slots, and using a network of electronic multiplexers to share photodetector channels, reducing resource requirements and enabling compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional fiber coupling is used in LIDAR systems, then optical signal transmission is achieved, but the system becomes bulky and integration into compact vehicle systems is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple optical functions (transmit and receive) into a single integrated photonic device, eliminating the need for separate fiber coupling assemblies. This merging of functions directly reduces system volume and removes the bulkiness associated with conventional fiber coupling approaches.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated photonic device performs multiple functions including optical beam generation, splitting, transmission, and reception within a single component. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby reducing overall system complexity and volume.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple channels are added to LIDAR systems, then detection capabilities are enhanced, but the need for extensive fiber coupling increases system bulkiness
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple optical channels are integrated within a single photonic device structure, allowing multi-channel detection capabilities without requiring separate fiber coupling paths for each channel. This consolidation maintains enhanced detection capabilities while avoiding the volume increase that would result from extensive fiber coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the spatial dimension within the photonic device to accommodate multiple optical channels through different input/output paths. This internal spatial arrangement allows multi-channel functionality without increasing the external system volume that would be required for separate fiber coupling assemblies.
3Device complexity
If time-domain multiplexing is implemented, then resource requirements are reduced and compact design is enabled, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs time-domain multiplexing where optical signals are transmitted and received in periodic time slots through different channels. This periodic action allows shared use of photodetector resources across multiple channels, reducing the number of required components while maintaining full detection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The photodetector channels are designed to serve multiple functions by detecting signals from different input channels at different times. This universal usage of detection resources reduces the total number of photodetectors needed, thereby reducing device complexity and resource requirements.
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 enables a compact and efficient LIDAR system capable of supporting autonomous vehicle operations by reducing bulkiness and allowing for more channels without the need for extensive fiber coupling, enhancing detection capabilities and integration into vehicle systems.
Implementation Method 1
receive an optical beam generated by a laser source
Implementation Method 2
receive, from the optical device, a transverse electric (TE) reflected beam and a transverse magnetic (TM) reflected beam
Implementation Method 3
a transverse electric (TE) reflected beam and a transverse magnetic (TM) reflected beam
Implementation Method 4
generate a first output signal by combining a first local oscillator (LO) signal and the TE reflected beam; and generate a second output signal by combining a second LO signal and the TM reflected beam
Data Source
AI summary
A light detection and ranging (LIDAR) system includes a transceiver, a laser source coupled to the transceiver, a time-division multiplexing (TDM) circuit, and one or more processors. The TDM circuit is configured to generate a plurality of first signals. The one or more processors are configured to control the laser source to provide an optical beam to a first input optical channel of a plurality of input optical channels of the transceiver during a first time slot, based on the optical beam provided to the first input optical channel, control the transceiver to send a first reflected beam and a second reflected beam to the TDM circuit through a first output optical channel of a plurality of output optical channels of the transceiver, and based on a control signal provided to the TDM circuit, control the TDM circuit to select the plurality of first signals during the first time slot.