LiDAR Adaptive Assembly for Asymmetric Illumination Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional assembly methods for LiDAR systems in autonomous vehicles are time-consuming and inefficient, relying on passive manual processes that require multiple iterations to achieve proper optical beam direction and characteristics, particularly for asymmetric illumination profiles.
Innovation Solution
An adaptive assembly test system that uses automated feedback control to precisely adjust the position of transmission optical elements, employing a test apparatus with a processor and imaging devices to calculate the actual pointing direction and spatial frequency response of the illumination beam, allowing for precise alignment and optimization of the LiDAR system's optical characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional passive manual assembly methods are used for LiDAR systems, then the assembly process is simple to implement, but the assembly time is excessive and productivity is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an automated feedback control system that measures the actual pointing direction and spatial frequency response of the illumination beam, compares these measurements with target values, and automatically adjusts optical element positions to minimize deviations. This closed-loop feedback mechanism eliminates time-consuming manual iterations while maintaining assembly precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment processes with an automated computer-controlled system that uses imaging devices to capture beam patterns, processors to calculate deviations, and automated mechanisms to adjust optical elements. This substitution of mechanical manual operations with automated systems dramatically increases assembly speed and productivity.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple manual iterations are performed to achieve proper optical beam direction, then the alignment precision can be improved, but the time consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously measures the actual pointing direction and spatial frequency response, compares them with target values, and automatically adjusts optical element positions. This real-time feedback eliminates the need for multiple manual iterations while achieving precise alignment in a single automated process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary automated measurements and calculations to determine the exact adjustment needed for optical elements before making adjustments. This preliminary action approach allows the system to achieve precise alignment in fewer steps compared to iterative manual methods.
3Manufacturing precision
If automated feedback control is implemented for precise optical element adjustment, then the alignment precision is significantly improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a multi-functional integrated system where imaging devices serve both to capture beam patterns and to provide measurement data, processors perform both data analysis and control signal generation, and the same automated mechanisms perform both adjustment and verification. This universality reduces overall system complexity despite the advanced functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to be self-regulating, automatically measuring its own performance, calculating deviations, and correcting errors without external intervention. This self-service capability reduces the need for complex external control systems and simplifies the overall device architecture.
4Productivity
If conventional assembly methods are used, then the device complexity is low, but the productivity and assembly efficiency are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical assembly operations with automated computer-controlled systems that use imaging devices for measurement, processors for calculation, and automated mechanisms for adjustment. This substitution dramatically increases assembly efficiency while managing automation complexity through integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The implementation of automated feedback control enables the system to self-correct and optimize optical element positions without manual intervention, significantly improving assembly efficiency. The feedback mechanism is implemented in a way that automates previously manual processes rather than adding layers of complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the disclosed technology provide systems and methods for testing and adaptively aligning a Light Detection And Ranging (LiDAR) unit. The test apparatus includes a frame configured to accept the LiDAR unit, a movable screen having at least two positions, and an imaging device configured to observe the screen in the at least two positions and capture images of the area illuminated by the LiDAR unit at each position. An offset between the images captured at the two positions is determined. The offset is used to calculate the actual pointing direction of the LiDAR unit being tested. Characteristics of the area illuminated by the LiDAR unit are measured and analyzed to independently adjust the LiDAR unit in several degrees of freedom.