Dual-Detector LiDAR Point Clouds for Short- and Long-Range Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lidar systems face challenges in maintaining short-range accuracy due to increased sensitivity and laser power, which compromises long-range detection, especially in environments with elements like dust and fog.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a lidar system with two detectors, one sensitive to high-power and the other to low-power laser pulses, combines return data to form a point cloud, enhancing distance measurement dynamic range by differentiating between high and low reflective objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If long-range lidar is used to improve detection at greater distances, then long-range detection capability is improved, but short-range accuracy is compromised due to increased sensitivity to dust, fog, and exhaust
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection task into two segments: one detector optimized for long-range detection and another detector optimized for short-range accuracy. Each detector processes returns from laser pulses at different power levels, allowing the system to maintain high accuracy at both short and long distances without compromise.
2Power
If laser power is increased to improve long-range detection, then long-range detection capability is improved, but sensitivity to environmental elements like dust and fog increases, compromising short-range performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different laser power levels locally to different detection scenarios. The first detector receives returns from high-power laser pulses optimized for long-range detection, while the second detector receives returns from low-power laser pulses optimized for short-range detection with reduced sensitivity to environmental interference.
3Device complexity
If a single detector is used to simplify the system, then device complexity is reduced, but the dynamic range of distance measurement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional detection system where two detectors work together to provide both long-range and short-range detection capabilities. This universal approach allows a single lidar system to handle the full dynamic range of distance measurements that would otherwise require multiple separate 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
This approach improves the dynamic range of lidar systems by effectively distinguishing between high and low reflective objects, enhancing both range and resolution of sensor data for autonomous vehicle navigation.
Implementation Method 1
receiving, by the controller, first return data detected by a first detector of a lidar device as a result of a first laser pulse or chirp
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and method are provided for controlling a vehicle. In one embodiment, a method includes: receiving, by the controller, first return data detected by a first detector of a lidar device as a result of a first laser pulse or chirp; receiving, by the controller, second return data detected by a second detector of the lidar device as a result of a second laser pulse or chirp; combining, by the controller, the first return data and the second return data to form a point cloud; and controlling, by the controller, the vehicle based on the point cloud.