Distributed LIDAR System Using Coherent Fiber Optic Image Bundles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LIDAR systems face challenges in providing unobstructed views of surroundings while minimizing the number of LIDARs and protecting expensive components, particularly in autonomous vehicles where obstacles like tractor-trailer trucks dynamically obstruct the field of view, and current solutions fail to address cost, weight, and reliability issues.
Innovation Solution
A distributed LIDAR system using coherent fiber optic image bundles (CFOBs) to transfer light reflections from multiple fields of view to a remotely located ranging subassembly, enabling centralized range sensing and reducing the number of LIDARs required by time multiplexing or spatially combining fields of view, while also providing redundancy for malfunction detection and failsafe operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple LIDARs are deployed to provide unobstructed views of surroundings, then measurement coverage and reliability are improved, but system cost, weight, and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the LIDAR system into separate functional modules: remote LIDAR sensors positioned at strategic locations (mirrors, antennas, poles) and a centralized control unit. This segmentation allows each sensor to cover specific zones independently while the central unit coordinates data fusion, improving coverage without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces remote mirrors and antennas as intermediary elements that extend the LIDAR's field of view around obstacles. These intermediaries reflect or redirect laser beams to areas that would otherwise be obstructed by the vehicle body, enabling single LIDAR units to achieve coverage equivalent to multiple units without the associated complexity.
2Measurement precision
If LIDAR components are mounted on vehicle exterior for direct FOV access, then measurement accuracy is improved, but component protection and reliability deteriorate due to weather and collision exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the LIDAR system into exposed optical components (mirrors, antennas) that maintain FOV access and protected electronic components (control unit, processors) housed in environmentally controlled compartments. This segmentation allows the measurement-critical optical path to remain exposed while protecting the vulnerable electronics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses remote mirrors and antennas as intermediaries that can be positioned in exposed locations to maintain measurement accuracy while the main LIDAR control unit remains protected. The intermediaries handle the harsh environmental exposure while the protected unit processes data, separating the measurement function from the processing function.
3Area of stationary object
If remote mirrors are used to extend FOV around obstacles, then measurement coverage is improved, but system complexity and calibration requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the remote mirror system to serve multiple functions: extending FOV coverage, providing redundant measurement paths, and enabling coordination with other vehicles' LIDAR systems. The same mirror infrastructure supports various LIDAR configurations and operational modes, reducing the need for separate systems for different functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the central control unit receives data from remote mirrors, processes the information, and adjusts mirror positioning or LIDAR beam directions in real-time. This closed-loop control automates the calibration process, reducing manual intervention and simplifying system operation despite the added complexity of remote components.
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 distributed LIDAR system enhances measurement accuracy and reliability by remotely locating expensive components, reducing system cost and complexity, and improving design flexibility, while maintaining high signal integrity and adaptability to changing environments.
Implementation Method 1
a coherent fiber optic image bundle (CFOB) to transfer light reflections from the FOV to a remotely located ranging subassembly
Implementation Method 2
the time associated with the reflections from each of the one or more directions is used to measure distance to objects in the associated direction
Implementation Method 3
a light emitter (e.g., a laser diode) illuminates one or more directions in a field of view and the time associated with the reflections from each of the one or more directions is used to measure distance
Data Source
AI summary
An autonomous truck may have several blind spots. These blind spots can be regions outside the direct field of view (FOV) of on-board sensors e.g. Cameras, LIDARs or RADARs. A remote mirror can be attached to the tractor or trailer of the truck and augment the direct FOV of sensors by illuminating a blind spot with emitted light AND/OR providing light reflections from a blind spot. However, remote mirrors are prone to move as a truck moves (e.g. as a truck articulates while turning). Within embodiments, a computer can process sensor data to identify a current location of the remote mirror in the FOV of a sensor and thereby identify a portion of the sensor data as being deflected by the remote mirror. In other embodiments the remote mirror is repositioned as the vehicle moves to perform a specific task, for example parking or reversing.