Lidar Characterization System Dynamic Optical Testing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current lidar characterization systems struggle to accurately measure the optical characteristics and range finding function of lidar devices while they are actively scanning, as they require static conditions, which differ from real operational conditions, and environmental control can interfere with these measurements.

Innovation Solution

A measurement system that allows for the characterization of lidar light beams and evaluation of range finding functions while they are rotating at operational speed, using a housing with reflective internal surfaces and optical guards to isolate selected channels and redirect beams to measurement devices, enabling the measurement of optical characteristics under dynamic conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If lidar devices are tested under static conditions in current characterization systems, then measurement stability is improved, but the test results do not reflect real operational conditions during active scanning

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement stabilityVSAvoidreal operational condition representation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic testing system where the lidar device rotates at operational speeds within a housing while optical measurement devices track the moving light beams. This allows characterization under dynamic scanning conditions that match real operational scenarios, resolving the contradiction between static measurement stability and dynamic operational representation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces optical guards and reflective surfaces as intermediaries that redirect light beams from rotating lidar channels to stationary measurement devices. This intermediary system enables dynamic testing while maintaining measurement accuracy, bridging the gap between moving light sources and fixed detectors.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If environmental control is applied during lidar characterization, then environmental interference is reduced, but it may interfere with the natural operational characteristics of the lidar device

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveenvironmental interferenceVSAvoidnatural operational characteristic preservation
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the testing environment by creating a controlled housing that isolates the lidar device while allowing selective environmental interaction. The housing provides structural containment for dynamic testing without requiring comprehensive environmental control, preserving natural operational characteristics while reducing harmful external interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Measurement precision

If optical guards and reflective surfaces are used to isolate and redirect beams, then channel isolation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvechannel isolationVSAvoidoptical system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs optical guards with reflective surfaces that automatically redirect light beams based on their geometric configuration. The system self-regulates channel isolation through the physical arrangement of reflective elements rather than requiring active control mechanisms, achieving precise channel separation while minimizing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 accurate measurement and evaluation of lidar channel performance under real operational conditions, reducing discrepancies between static and dynamic testing, and allowing for adjustments based on environmental parameters like temperature and humidity.

Implementation Method 1

A measurement system that allows for the characterization of lidar light beams and evaluation of range finding functions while they are rotating at operational speed, using a housing with reflective internal surfaces and optical guards to isolate selected channels and redirect beams to measurement devices

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS20230213629A1Light source characterization system
Publication Date: 2023.07.06 MOTIONAL AD LLC
  • US20230213629A1 patent drawing
  • US20230213629A1 patent drawing
  • US20230213629A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Various measurement systems and methods are disclosed to enable characterizing the optical characteristics of light beams emitted by a light detection and range finding (LIDAR) system or sensor and evaluating the range finding function of user selected lidar channels while the lidar operates under a real operational condition and is exposed to a range of user defined environmental conditions.