Frequency-Offset LIDAR Channels for Faster Sample-Region Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LIDAR systems face challenges in generating data for larger fields of view, increased numbers of sample regions, and faster refresh rates, particularly in applications like self-driving vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A LIDAR system that uses multiple channels with frequency differentials induced by electronics, where reference and comparative signals are generated from the same light source, allowing concurrent data generation for multiple sample regions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple light sources are used to generate LIDAR data for larger fields of view and more sample regions, then the productivity and coverage are improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments a single light source output into multiple channels using wavelength division multiplexing. A multiplexer divides the light signal into different wavelength channels, each carrying LIDAR data for different sample regions. This allows one light source to effectively serve multiple regions simultaneously, improving productivity without increasing the number of light sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes a single light source perform multiple functions by having it generate LIDAR signals for multiple sample regions through different wavelength channels. The same light source is universally used across all channels, with each channel processed independently to cover different spatial regions, thereby achieving multi-region coverage without additional light sources.
2Productivity
If the refresh rate is increased to provide faster LIDAR data updates, then the productivity is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-modulating each wavelength channel with a unique frequency offset before the LIDAR signal is transmitted. This frequency offset is embedded in advance during signal generation, allowing the receiver to easily distinguish and separate signals from different channels through frequency discrimination, thus maintaining detection accuracy at high refresh rates.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the frequency parameter of each wavelength channel by applying distinct frequency offsets to different channels. This parameter differentiation allows the system to multiplex multiple channels in the frequency domain, enabling faster refresh rates while maintaining the ability to distinguish and measure signals from each channel accurately at the receiver.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple wavelength channels are used to cover larger fields of view, then the area of coverage is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a frequency dimension to the wavelength-multiplexed LIDAR system by applying frequency offsets to each channel. This creates a two-dimensional separation scheme: spatial separation through wavelength division and frequency separation through offset modulation. The receiver can thus identify and process signals from different field of view regions by detecting both wavelength and frequency characteristics, expanding coverage while managing complexity through structured signal differentiation.
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 accelerates LIDAR data generation, meeting specifications for larger fields of view and increased sample regions while reducing the number of light sources required.
Implementation Method 1
a light source that outputs an outgoing LIDAR signal that includes multiple different channels
Implementation Method 2
The frequency differential includes a contribution from a frequency offset that is induced by electronics
Implementation Method 3
There is a frequency differential between a frequency of the reference signal and a frequency of the associated comparative signal
Data Source
AI summary
A LIDAR system includes a light source that outputs an outgoing LIDAR signal that includes multiple different channels. The LIDAR system also generate multiple composite light signals that each carries a signal couple and are each associated with a different one of the channels. A signal couple includes a reference signal and an associated comparative signal. The comparative signals each include light from the outgoing LIDAR signal that has been reflected by one or more objects located outside of the LIDAR system. The reference signals also include light from the outgoing LIDAR signal but also exclude light that has been reflected by any object located outside of the LIDAR system. There is a frequency differential between a frequency of the reference signal and a frequency of the associated comparative signal. The frequency differential includes a contribution from a frequency offset that is induced by electronics. The electronics induce the frequency offset such that the frequency offset is different for each signal couple.