Integrated LiDAR Mirror Design for Compact 3D Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lidar devices are costly and bulky due to the need for separate transmission and reception optical systems, which also require expensive wide-angle lenses to achieve a wide field of view, and they cannot simultaneously acquire distance-based 3D images and general images without additional algorithms.
Innovation Solution
A lidar device integrating a transmission mirror and a reception mirror, with dichroic mirrors to reflect specific wavelength bands, allowing for simultaneous distance and image acquisition, and utilizing the shaded area for optical transmission, eliminating the need for separate optical systems and expensive lenses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate transmission and reception optical systems are used, then the lidar device can function properly, but the device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the transmission mirror and reception mirror into a single integrated optical system. The transmission mirror has a semi-transparent region that allows transmission light to pass through while the reflective region directs reception light, eliminating the need for separate transmission and reception optical systems and reducing overall device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated mirror structure serves multiple functions: it acts as both a transmission mirror for emitting light and a reception mirror for collecting reflected light. The semi-transparent region and reflective region of the same mirror structure enable dual functionality, reducing the number of components needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If wide-angle lenses are used to achieve wide field of view, then the FOV increases, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves wide field of view by utilizing the angular dimension through the semi-transparent region's angular range rather than relying on wide-angle lenses. The transmission mirror reflects light at different angles to cover a wide FOV without requiring expensive wide-angle optical elements.
3Reliability
If separate transmission and reception optical systems are configured, then the optical functions are distinct, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the transmission and reception optical systems into a single integrated mirror structure. The transmission mirror includes both a semi-transparent region for transmission and a reflective region for reception, combining previously separate systems into one unified component that maintains functional distinction while reducing 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 integration minimizes device size and cost, enabling the simultaneous acquisition of 3D and general images, facilitating real-world 3D modeling and reducing manufacturing expenses.
Implementation Method 1
a transmission mirror provided on an optical path on which the light of the predetermined wavelength band proceeds, and reflecting the light of the predetermined wavelength band to be incident in a predetermined angle range
Implementation Method 2
the first mirror reflects the light of the predetermined wavelength band and transmits light having a wavelength band other than the predetermined wavelength band
Implementation Method 3
the second mirror reflects light having a wavelength band other than the predetermined wavelength band and transmits the light of the predetermined wavelength band
Implementation Method 4
a light detection unit for detecting a transmission/reception time of flight or phase difference of the light of the predetermined wavelength band to acquire a distance-based 3D image
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a lidar device for measuring a distance of an external object using light. According to the present invention, the transmission mirror and the reception mirror are integrally formed, and a shadow region, which has not been conventionally used, is utilized as a light transmission region such that a separate light transmission space is unnecessary, thereby enabling a minimized design of the lidar device.