Coil-on-Mirror Lidar Scanner for Compact Mirror Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lidar systems in autonomous vehicles face challenges due to large space occupation and dynamic control issues caused by motors, which affect power requirements and physical dimensions, hindering their integration and performance.
Innovation Solution
A compact lidar scanner design with a mirror and actuator assembly, where the actuator is disposed behind the mirror to minimize space and apply rotational torque evenly, using a coil assembly and magnetic components to pivot the mirror without flexing or twisting, allowing for rapid movements and efficient space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If motors are used to rotate the mirror, then the mirror can be actuated to scan light, but the system occupies large space and has dynamic control problems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional motor-based mechanical actuation with a magnetic coil assembly that generates electromagnetic force to pivot the mirror. This substitution eliminates the need for motors, reducing space occupation while enabling rapid mirror movement for light scanning.
Solution Approach 2:
The coil assembly is positioned in a space behind the mirror, utilizing the thickness dimension rather than lateral space. This allows the actuator to be integrated within the mirror assembly footprint, minimizing the overall scanner package size while maintaining actuation capability.
2Force
If motors are positioned on ends of the mirror, then torque can be applied for rotation, but dynamic control problems occur and space is occupied
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces motor-based torque application with an electromagnetic coil assembly that generates force through magnetic field interaction. This provides smoother, more precise torque control without the dynamic control problems associated with traditional motors, enabling better operational performance.
3Power
If traditional motor systems are used, then actuation is achieved, but power requirements and physical dimensions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes motor-based actuation with a compact electromagnetic coil assembly that requires less power and occupies minimal space. This reduction in power requirements and physical dimensions directly addresses the obstacles faced by designers of autonomous vehicle lidar systems.
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
The design reduces the overall size and improves aerodynamic performance, reduces noise, and enhances resistance to vibration and environmental factors, while maintaining scanner accuracy and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator assembly includes a coil assembly and at least one magnet positioned adjacent to or near the second surface of the outer assembly body. The at least one magnet is configured to provide a magnetic field to the coil assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A scanner for a lidar system is configured to direct emitted light to scan a field of regard of the lidar system in accordance with a scan pattern. The scanner includes a mirror and an actuator assembly. The mirror includes a reflective surface and a rear surface and is pivotable along a mirror axle. The actuator assembly is disposed along the rear surface of the mirror and is configured to exert a torque on the mirror to cause the mirror to pivot about the mirror axle.