Concurrent Lidar Sampling for Long-Range High-Refresh Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LIDAR systems face challenges in generating LIDAR data efficiently for sample regions at increased distances and higher refresh rates, particularly in applications like self-driving vehicles, where reducing data generation time is desirable.
Innovation Solution
A LIDAR system is configured to output multiple LIDAR output signals concurrently to multiple sample regions, processing reflected input signals to generate LIDAR data using mathematical transforms, such as Fourier transforms, to achieve a single frequency solution for each object.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the distance to sample regions increases, then the field of view coverage is improved, but the ability to generate LIDAR data becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the field of view into multiple discrete sample regions that can be independently illuminated and measured. By segmenting the detection task across multiple regions, the system can maintain reliable data generation for each region while collectively covering a larger field of view, even at increased distances
2Productivity
If the refresh rate increases, then the data generation frequency is improved, but the time required to generate LIDAR data for each sample region must be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous illumination of multiple sample regions with separate LIDAR output signals, allowing simultaneous data collection from all regions. This continuous parallel operation eliminates sequential measurement delays, enabling high refresh rates while maintaining adequate measurement time for each sample region
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from sequential temporal measurement to parallel spatial measurement by directing multiple LIDAR signals to different sample regions simultaneously. This dimensional shift from time-based to space-based parallelism enables increased refresh rates without reducing individual measurement quality
3Measurement precision
If multiple LIDAR output signals are used to illuminate the same sample region, then frequency ambiguities are resolved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different frequency characteristics to each LIDAR output signal, creating distinct frequency signatures for each signal. This segmentation of frequency space allows the system to resolve frequency ambiguities by identifying which signal's frequency characteristics match the received echo, while maintaining manageable system complexity through systematic frequency assignment
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 enhances the accuracy and reliability of LIDAR data generation by resolving frequency ambiguities, allowing for increased refresh rates and improved performance in demanding applications.
Implementation Method 1
The LIDAR output signal is reflected by an object located off the LIDAR chip. The reflected LIDAR output signal serves as a LIDAR input signal that carries LIDAR data
Implementation Method 2
LIDAR data (distance and/or radial velocity between the source of the LIDAR output signal and the reflecting object)
Implementation Method 3
The transform outputs a single frequency solution for the object in the sample region
Data Source
AI summary
A LIDAR system concurrently outputs multiple LIDAR output signals that concurrently illuminate the same sample region in a field of view for a data period. The sample region is one of multiple sample regions included in the field of view. The LIDAR system also includes electronics that use the multiple LIDAR output signals to generate LIDAR data for the sample region. The LIDAR data includes a distance and/or a radial velocity between the LIDAR system and an object that reflects the LIDAR output signals.