LCoS LiDAR Structured Light for Micron-Scale 3D Sensing

The patent divides the light source into multiple VCSEL elements arranged in arrays (e.g., 1×N or M×N configurations) and similarly segments the sensor into multiple detection elements. This segmentation allows parallel illumination and detection of multiple spatial zones, dramatically reducing scanning time while maintaining high resolution. Each VCSEL element can independently illuminate a specific region, and corresponding sensor elements detect reflected light from that region simultaneously.

The patent combines multiple VCSEL light sources and multiple sensor elements into a unified LiDAR system that operates in parallel. By merging these components into an integrated array configuration with shared control and processing electronics, the system achieves both high measurement precision through multiple detection points and high productivity through simultaneous operation of all elements.

The patent replaces mechanical scanning systems with solid-state VCSEL arrays that can be electrically controlled. Instead of using a single large mechanical light source that must physically scan or rotate, the system uses multiple small VCSEL elements that can be independently activated through electrical signals. This substitution eliminates mechanical instability while maintaining the ability to illuminate and detect with high spatial precision.

The patent changes the fundamental parameter of light source size from hundreds of microns (mechanical type) to the much smaller VCSEL element size (tens of microns). This parameter change enables high-resolution imaging while the overall system stability is maintained through solid-state construction and electrical control rather than mechanical movement.

The patent replaces motor-driven mechanical scanning with electrically controlled VCSEL arrays. The sensing coverage is achieved not by physically moving a single light source, but by electronically activating different VCSEL elements in the array to illuminate different spatial zones. This eliminates motors and mechanical vibrations entirely, dramatically improving reliability while maintaining full sensing coverage through parallel operation of multiple elements.

The VCSEL array system serves multiple functions simultaneously: different VCSEL elements can illuminate different regions for comprehensive coverage, while the same array can be dynamically reconfigured for different scanning patterns or focal points. This multi-functionality replaces the need for mechanical movement to achieve coverage, enhancing both reliability and versatility.