FMCW LIDAR Waveguide and Laser Array Distance Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LIDAR systems, particularly FMCW LIDAR systems, face challenges in reliably detecting objects at greater distances due to the need for high-power laser light sources, and there is a need for an improved optical measurement system to determine the speed or distance of objects with enhanced accuracy and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The optical measurement system employs a device with multiple laser elements, a waveguide, and detectors to coherently superimpose reflected and reference electromagnetic radiation, using modulation devices to modify the wavelength and control current intensity, allowing for simultaneous irradiation and analysis of large areas without scanning, and determining the difference frequency to calculate positional relationships.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high-power laser light sources are used to detect objects at greater distances, then detection range is improved, but system complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the laser source into multiple independent laser elements arranged in an array, where each element can be independently controlled and operated at lower power levels. This segmentation allows the system to achieve the required total power for long-range detection while maintaining simpler individual component design and reduced overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-point laser source to a two-dimensional array of laser elements. This dimensional change enables parallel detection across multiple spatial positions, improving detection reliability for objects at greater distances while distributing the power requirements across multiple lower-power elements, thereby reducing individual element complexity.
2Area of stationary object
If scanning is used to analyze large areas, then measurement coverage is improved, but time expenditure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement area into multiple zones corresponding to different laser elements in the array. Each laser element simultaneously measures its designated zone, enabling parallel processing of multiple spatial regions. This eliminates the sequential scanning process and dramatically reduces the time required to cover large areas while maintaining comprehensive measurement coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous simultaneous measurement across all laser element positions rather than sequential scanning. All laser elements operate concurrently to measure their respective zones, maintaining continuous useful action across the entire measurement area. This parallel operation eliminates the time losses inherent in sequential scanning while preserving complete area coverage.
3Productivity
If multiple laser elements are used to irradiate large areas simultaneously, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple laser elements segmented into an array configuration, where each element independently irradiates a specific portion of the target area. This segmentation enables simultaneous measurement of large areas by multiple elements, dramatically improving productivity. The modular array structure manages device complexity by using standardized, interchangeable elements rather than a single complex high-power source.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the laser elements with universal functionality, where each element can operate independently or in combination with others to measure various target configurations. This multi-functionality allows the same array structure to handle different measurement scenarios (single large area, multiple smaller areas, varying distances), improving productivity across diverse applications while avoiding the need for multiple specialized devices that would increase overall complexity.
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 enables reliable and efficient measurement of object distance and speed, improving detection accuracy and reducing time expenditure, while allowing for the irradiation of large areas without the need for scanning, thus enhancing the performance of LIDAR systems.
Implementation Method 1
an optical element, comprising a first waveguide and adapted to transmit a first partial beam of irradiated electromagnetic radiation
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of detectors for detecting signals which are generated by superimposing electromagnetic radiation reflected by an object and electromagnetic radiation outcoupled from the first waveguide
Implementation Method 3
a device for emitting electromagnetic radiation, comprising a plurality of laser elements
Data Source
AI summary
An optical measurement system may include a device for emitting electromagnetic radiation, comprising a plurality of laser elements. The optical measurement system may include an optical element, comprising a first waveguide and adapted to transmit a first partial beam of irradiated electromagnetic radiation and to incouple a second partial beam of the electromagnetic radiation into the first waveguide at a first position and to outcouple the second partial beam from the first waveguide at a second position. The optical measurement system moreover comprises a plurality of detectors for detecting signals which are generated by superimposing electromagnetic radiation reflected by an object and electromagnetic radiation outcoupled from the first waveguide.