Combining Overlapping LIDAR and RADAR Frames
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Solution Overview
Problem
Scanning systems, such as LIDAR and RADAR, face challenges in combining overlapping frames to achieve a comprehensive 360-degree field of view and high data point density, leading to incomplete detection of nearby objects and limited frame rate.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that synchronize and combine frames from multiple scanning systems by determining optimal time values for frame capture, using a time delay controller and capture synchronizer to align data points, and a capture combiner to enhance resolution and frame rate, allowing for the detection of more targets and wider velocity ranges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple scanning systems are combined to achieve 360-degree field of view, then the detection coverage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple scanning systems (LIDAR and RADAR) with overlapping fields of view into a unified detection system. The scanning areas of multiple systems are merged to achieve comprehensive 360-degree coverage, while the frames from these systems are combined and processed together to detect objects in the environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the 360-degree field of view into multiple scanning areas, each covered by a separate scanning system. By segmenting the overall detection task into multiple overlapping scanning zones, the system achieves complete coverage while managing complexity through modular deployment of individual scanning units.
2Measurement precision
If frames from multiple scanning systems are combined, then the data point density is improved, but the processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines frames from multiple scanning systems by merging their data points into a unified representation. The capture combiner merges overlapping data from multiple scanning systems, and the combined frame generator generates a unified frame that integrates data points from all input frames, achieving higher data point density through systematic merging.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a consolidated copy of environmental data by generating a combined frame that replicates the essential information from multiple source frames in a unified structure. This combined frame serves as a consolidated representation that simplifies subsequent processing while preserving the enhanced data point density.
3Productivity
If frame capture time is reduced to increase frame rate, then the productivity is improved, but the measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent maintains continuous detection by systematically combining frames from multiple scanning systems that operate in parallel. By capturing frames from multiple systems simultaneously and combining them, the system achieves a higher effective frame rate while each individual scanner maintains sufficient capture time for accurate measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges data from multiple frames captured at different times into a single combined frame that represents a unified time point. This combining process effectively increases the frame rate by synthesizing information from multiple captures, while the extended integration time improves measurement precision rather than deteriorating it.
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 solution enables improved detection of nearby objects with higher resolution and frame rate, allowing for better object tracking and increased data point density, enhancing the capability of autonomous vehicles to navigate complex environments.
Implementation Method 1
Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) enable the measurement of the range, angle, and/or velocity of objects. Scanning systems may cast electromagnetic waves (e.g., radio waves, ultraviolet waves) into an environment and measure the time over which a wave reflects off an object and returns.
Implementation Method 2
Scanning systems may cast electromagnetic waves (e.g., radio waves, ultraviolet waves) into an environment and measure the time over which a wave reflects off an object and returns.
Implementation Method 3
Radio Detection and Ranging (RADAR) enable the measurement of the range, angle, and/or velocity of objects. Scanning systems may cast electromagnetic waves (e.g., radio waves, ultraviolet waves) into an environment and measure the time over which a wave reflects off an object and returns.
Implementation Method 4
Radio Detection and Ranging (RADAR) enable the measurement of the range, angle, and/or velocity of objects.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatus, systems and articles of manufacture to combine frames of overlapping scanning systems are disclosed. An example apparatus includes a time delay controller to determine a first time value and a second time value, the first time value different from the second time value; a capture synchronizer to, in response to the first time value corresponding to a first time, capture a first frame from a first scanning system and, in response to the second time value corresponding to a second time, capture a second frame from a second scanning system; and a capture combiner to combine the first frame and the second frame into a third frame, the third frame including data from the first frame and data from the second frame.