Lidar Characterization System Using Optical Guards
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lidar characterization systems struggle to accurately measure the optical characteristics and range finding function of lidar channels while the light beams are moving at operational scanning speeds, and controlling environmental conditions interferes with these measurements, leading to significant discrepancies between static and real operational test results.
Innovation Solution
A measurement system that includes a housing with a reflective internal surface and optical guards to isolate selected light beams during rotation, allowing for precise evaluation of the range finding function and optical characteristics of individual lidar channels while they operate at scanning speed, and enabling control of ambient conditions like temperature and humidity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If lidar channels are measured while rotating at operational scanning speeds, then the measurement reflects real operational conditions, but the moving light beams cause measurement inaccuracies and cannot be properly isolated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by allowing the lidar device to rotate at operational scanning speeds during measurement, rather than requiring static positioning. The measurement system is designed to capture optical characteristics dynamically during rotation, making the measurement process itself dynamic rather than static. This resolves the contradiction by enabling measurements that reflect real operational conditions while maintaining precision through synchronized detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism - the housing with reflective internal surface and optical guards - that mediates between the moving light beams and the measurement devices. This intermediary structure allows the light beams to be properly directed and isolated even during rotation, enabling accurate measurement of optical characteristics while the lidar operates at scanning speeds.
2Measurement precision
If environmental conditions are controlled during measurement, then measurement consistency is improved, but the control mechanisms interfere with the optical paths and measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a controlled environmental chamber that provides consistent temperature and humidity conditions specifically for the measurement area, while using optical guards to ensure that environmental control mechanisms do not interfere with the optical paths. Different parts of the system have different properties - the chamber provides environmental stability while the optical paths remain interference-free.
3Device complexity
If static measurement setups are used, then measurement simplicity is maintained, but the results do not reflect real operational performance of rotating lidar channels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a measurement system that serves multiple functions: it can measure both static and dynamic operational characteristics, control environmental conditions, and accommodate different lidar rotation speeds. This multi-functional design allows the system to maintain simplicity while accurately reflecting operational performance through its ability to adapt to different measurement modes.
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 characterization of lidar channels' performance under real operational conditions, reducing discrepancies and allowing for adjustments to improve lidar accuracy and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
an internal surface configured to redirect a portion of the light beams emitted during a second portion toward a detection aperture
Implementation Method 2
an optical measurement device configured to measure at least an optical characteristic of the light beams received via the second aperture during the second portion of the rotational period
Data Source
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.