Solid-State LiDAR Angular Calibration via Imaging-Assisted Spot Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solid-state LiDAR devices face challenges in achieving accurate and reliable scanning angles due to individual differences and environmental factors, leading to distorted images and inefficient calibration processes.
Innovation Solution
An imaging-assisted angular calibration method that uses a spatial resolution chart and camera to determine the angular resolution, then calculates stepwise moving angles for the LiDAR device based on images of laser spots in a raster scan pattern, creating a modified lookup table for precise calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional calibration methods are used without imaging assistance, then the calibration process is simpler, but the calibration accuracy and reliability deteriorate due to individual differences and environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
A camera is introduced as an intermediary device to capture images of the spatial resolution chart and laser spots. This intermediary enables automated image processing and angle calculation, significantly improving calibration accuracy while maintaining reasonable system complexity through the use of off-the-shelf camera hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical calibration procedures with an automated imaging and image processing system. Instead of physical adjustments and manual measurements, the system uses digital image capture and automated angle calculation algorithms to achieve high-precision calibration.
2Productivity
If manual calibration procedures are used, then the system is easier to operate, but the calibration time and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The calibration system performs self-calibration by automatically capturing images, processing the spatial resolution chart data, calculating laser spot angles, and generating calibration parameters without requiring manual intervention. This self-service approach dramatically improves calibration efficiency while the automated nature handles the complexity internally.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning the spatial resolution chart, pre-configuring the camera parameters, and pre-programming the angle calculation algorithms. These preliminary setups enable rapid automated calibration execution, improving productivity while reducing the operational complexity during the actual calibration process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If high-grade optics and rotating assemblies are used in LiDAR devices, then the field of view and scanning capability are improved, but the device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical rotating assemblies with solid-state laser scanning technology. Instead of physically rotating high-grade optics, the system uses electronically controlled laser beam steering, which achieves the same scanning capability while dramatically reducing device size and eliminating moving mechanical parts.
Data Source
AI summary
An imaging-assisted angular calibration method comprises receiving an image of a spatial resolution chart on a flat board, the image taken by a camera positioned at a predetermined distance from the spatial resolution chart; determining an angular resolution of the camera based on the image of the spatial resolution chart and the predetermined distance; and receiving an image of laser spots in a raster scan pattern incident on the flat board, the laser spots emitted from a LiDAR device positioned at the predetermined distance from the flat board, the raster scan pattern generated based on a group of preset values in the LiDAR device. A set of stepwise moving angles of the LiDAR device corresponding to the group of preset values are then calculated based on the image of the laser spots and the angular resolution of the camera for use in calibrating the LiDAR device.