Integrated Waveguide LiDAR for Compact High-Resolution Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LiDAR systems face challenges in efficiently steering and scanning light for accurate distance and position measurement of objects, particularly in advanced driving assistance systems and autonomous vehicles, where miniaturization and high scanning resolution are essential.
Innovation Solution
A LiDAR apparatus with a focal plane array design, incorporating waveguides, light sources, light switching elements, and a light steering element, allows for two-dimensional scanning by controlling light emission and steering based on incident light positions, using a combination of ring resonators and tuning elements for precise wavelength control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If conventional LiDAR systems use traditional light steering mechanisms, then the system can achieve basic light scanning functionality, but the device size is large and scanning resolution is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the light steering function into multiple independent waveguides (first waveguide, second waveguide, third waveguide) with separate light switching elements. Each waveguide can be independently controlled to steer light in different directions, enabling high scanning resolution through segmented control while maintaining a compact integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements two-dimensional light scanning by controlling light switching elements that can redirect light in multiple directions (first direction, second direction, and third direction). This multi-dimensional light steering capability achieves high scanning resolution without increasing device volume, as the waveguides are arranged in a compact three-dimensional configuration.
2Volume of moving object
If the LiDAR apparatus integrates multiple components on a single chip, then device miniaturization is achieved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional components including waveguides, light switching elements, light sources, and detectors into a single integrated LiDAR apparatus structure. The waveguides are optically connected to light sources and switching elements, with all components arranged in a compact configuration that enables miniaturization while maintaining functional performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated waveguide structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it guides light from sources, enables light switching between different directions, and facilitates optical coupling between components. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby achieving miniaturization without proportionally increasing manufacturing precision requirements.
3Speed
If the light switching elements are controlled with overlapping signals, then scanning speed is improved, but signal interference may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is configured to apply control signals to light switching elements in a coordinated sequence, where signals for different waveguides are timed to avoid simultaneous activation conflicts. The preliminary arrangement of waveguides and switching elements allows the control unit to manage signal timing, enabling high scanning speed while preventing signal interference through pre-planned signal deployment.
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
Enables high-speed, miniaturized, and efficient light scanning with improved scanning resolution, suitable for autonomous vehicles and various electronic devices, by integrating components on a single chip and optimizing light steering and emission.
Implementation Method 1
a light steering element arranged in the third direction from the plurality of light input/output elements, the light steering element configured to steer incident light based on a position of the incident light on the light steering element
Implementation Method 2
At least one of the plurality of switching elements may include a ring resonator and a tuning element configured to control the ring resonator to selectively resonate based on an electrical signal
Implementation Method 3
a plurality of waveguides extending in a first direction, the plurality of waveguides spaced apart from one another in a second direction crossing the first direction
Implementation Method 4
a plurality of light sources spaced apart from one another in the second direction, each of the plurality of light sources having a first end optically connected to a waveguide from among the plurality of waveguides
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) apparatus. The LiDAR apparatus includes a plurality of waveguides extending in a first direction and spaced apart from one another in a second direction crossing the first direction, a plurality of light sources spaced apart from one another in the second direction and having a first end optically connected to the plurality of waveguides respectively, a plurality of light switching elements that are two-dimensionally arranged, and having a plurality of first light switching elements optically connected to a first waveguide among the plurality of waveguides, a plurality of light input/output elements optically connected to the plurality of light switching elements, respectively, and a light steering element configured to steer incident light based on a position of incident light on the light steering element. The plurality of light input/output elements configured to input/output light in a third direction.