FMCW LiDAR Segmentation Using Velocity and Polarization Cues
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing object detection systems using LiDAR sensors face limitations in spatial resolution and immunity to extraneous light, and camera systems have issues with coherent measurement principles, leading to suboptimal performance in industrial and surveillance applications.
Innovation Solution
A device employing a frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) LiDAR sensor that uses coherent light measurement, polarization-dependent intensity analysis, and spatially resolved radial velocity to enhance object segmentation and classification, offering improved immunity to extraneous light and higher spatial resolution compared to traditional LiDAR and radar systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If incoherent LiDAR measurement is used, then maximum range can be extended, but spatial resolution and immunity to extraneous light deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental measurement parameter from incoherent time-of-flight to coherent frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) measurement. This parameter change enables simultaneous achievement of high spatial resolution through frequency encoding and extended range through the continuous wave approach, while the coherent measurement provides inherent immunity to extraneous light
2Length of stationary object
If incoherent LiDAR measurement is used, then measurement range can be increased, but immunity to extraneous light deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the potential harm of extraneous light into a benefit by using coherent FMCW measurement. The frequency-modulated continuous wave approach allows the system to distinguish desired signals from extraneous light through frequency encoding, transforming the challenging ambient light environment into a manageable condition that does not interfere with measurement accuracy
3Productivity
If traditional LiDAR segmentation is used, then computational effort is reduced, but segmentation accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by encoding spatial and velocity information into the frequency domain during the measurement process itself. The FMCW measurement inherently provides range and velocity data through frequency encoding, allowing segmentation to be performed more efficiently using pre-encoded information rather than requiring computationally intensive post-processing of raw time-of-flight data
4Object-affected harmful factors
If radar systems are used, then immunity to extraneous light is improved, but spatial resolution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the mechanical/radar-based detection system with an optical FMCW LiDAR system. By using frequency-modulated continuous wave optical measurement, the system achieves radar-like immunity to extraneous light interference while simultaneously obtaining superior spatial resolution through the optical wavelength, effectively replacing the radar approach with an enhanced optical alternative
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 FMCW LiDAR sensor enables more accurate and efficient segmentation and classification of objects by utilizing coherent light measurement and polarization-dependent intensities, reducing computational effort and improving spatial resolution, thus enhancing object detection in surveillance and industrial environments.
Implementation Method 1
the measured radial velocity, vr, of the transmitted light reflected or remitted by the measuring points
Implementation Method 2
A light pulse is emitted by the sensor, reflected by an object, and then detected again by the sensor. The time-of-flight of the light pulse is determined by the sensor, and the distance between the sensor and the object is estimated using the speed of light
Implementation Method 3
A device employing a frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) LiDAR sensor that uses coherent light measurement
Data Source
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AI summary
A device and a method for securing a surveillance area are described, comprising at least one FMCW LiDAR sensor for emitting light beams into the surveillance area. The FMCW LiDAR sensor scans a plurality of measurement points within the surveillance area and generates measurement data from the transmitted light emitted or reflected by the measurement points. A control and evaluation unit evaluates the measurement data and generates a safety-related signal based on the evaluation. The measurement data includes the radial velocities of the measurement points and the polarization-dependent intensities of the transmitted light emitted or reflected by the measurement points. The control and evaluation unit is configured to segment the measurement points using the radial velocities and polarization-dependent intensities and to group them into objects and/or object segments.