Laser Radar Light Source Thermal Management via Segmented Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Laser radar systems using pulse light sources face heat management issues, leading to decreased output and potential laser failure due to overheating, as the heat generated by the driving unit and amplifier is not effectively separated.
Innovation Solution
The laser radar system separates the heat generated from the driving unit of the laser diode and the amplifier, with a first light source unit containing a signal light source and pump laser diode, and a second light source unit including an optical amplifier, connected via an optical connector, to minimize size and length of the second light source unit and manage heat efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the output of pulse light source is increased, then measurement accuracy and long-distance capability are improved, but heat generation increases causing laser output decrease and potential breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the light source system into two separate units: a first light source unit containing the pulse light source and a second light source unit containing the CW light source. This segmentation allows each unit to be optimized for its specific function and managed independently for heat dissipation, resolving the contradiction between high output performance and heat management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines both pulse light source and CW light source in a single laser radar system, allowing the pulse light source to provide high measurement accuracy and long-distance capability while the CW light source provides continuous illumination and serves as a heat dissipation reference, together resolving the heat management issue while maintaining performance.
2Volume of moving object
If the second light source unit is minimized in size and positioned at the end of laser transmitting unit, then system compactness is improved, but heat management becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the second light source unit at the end of the laser transmitting unit, utilizing the longitudinal dimension of the system rather than expanding laterally. This dimensional arrangement allows compact integration while maintaining adequate thermal separation between the two light source units through the optical path length.
3Ease of manufacture
If an optical connector is used to connect the first and second light source units, then modularity and ease of assembly are improved, but connection complexity and potential signal loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical connector as an intermediary component between the first and second light source units. This standardized interface simplifies assembly and disassembly while maintaining optical signal integrity, resolving the contradiction between modularity and connection complexity through proven optical coupling technology.
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 configuration effectively manages heat generation, prevents power degradation, and allows for high-output pulses to be transmitted efficiently, reducing the risk of laser failure and maintaining system performance.
Implementation Method 1
the second light source unit includes an optical amplifier for amplifying a signal output from the first light source unit
Data Source
AI summary
A laser radar system includes a first light source unit including a signal light source—a seed laser diode or a light source for amplifying a laser beam from the seed laser diode—and a pump laser diode, a second light source unit disposed to be spaced apart from the first light source unit, the second light source unit including an optical amplifier for amplifying a signal output from the first light source unit, and an optical connector for connecting the first light source unit and the second light source unit to each other, wherein the second light source unit is disposed at an end of a laser transceiver unit of the laser radar system.