LIDAR Detector Saturation Prevention via Dual-Energy Pulsing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional LIDAR devices face detector saturation issues when measuring close-range objects with high reflectivity, leading to distorted pulse shapes and impaired measurement of intensity, reflectivity, and angle due to the limited dynamic range of detectors.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that generate a high-energy electromagnetic beam followed by a weaker beam with adjustable energy split, delay time, and intensity ratio to prevent detector saturation, allowing for accurate measurement of objects at varying distances and reflectivities without oversaturating the detector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If high-energy laser pulses are used to extend the maximum detection range, then the detection range is improved, but the detector saturates when measuring close-range objects with high reflectivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by using pulsed laser beams with different energies at different time intervals. A first high-energy pulse is emitted for long-range detection, followed by a second lower-energy pulse for close-range detection. This temporal separation of energy levels allows the detector to handle both far and near objects without saturation, resolving the contradiction between extended range and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the energy parameter of the laser pulses based on the measurement requirements. By varying the pulse energy between two distinct levels (high for far range, low for close range), the system adapts to different detection scenarios. This parameter change enables the detector to operate within its dynamic range for both close and far objects, eliminating saturation while maintaining extended detection capability.
2Length of stationary object
If a single high-energy beam is used to ensure maximum range detection, then the range is extended, but the dynamic range of the detector is exceeded for close objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection task into two distinct energy levels. Instead of using a single beam energy, the system divides the detection into a first high-energy pulse for maximum range and a second lower-energy pulse for close-range objects. This segmentation allows each pulse to be optimized for its specific detection zone, enabling the detector to handle the full dynamic range from far to near objects without exceeding its capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamics by making the beam energy variable rather than fixed. The system dynamically switches between two energy levels based on the required detection distance. This dynamic adjustment of pulse energy allows the system to adapt to varying object distances and reflectivities, expanding the operational dynamic range while maintaining maximum detection capability.
3Measurement precision
If the laser pulse energy is increased to detect low-reflectivity objects at long range, then the detection capability is improved, but the pulse shape becomes distorted due to detector saturation for close objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses periodic emission of two differently energized pulses to preserve pulse shape integrity. The first high-energy pulse detects low-reflectivity objects at long range, while the second lower-energy pulse is timed to detect close objects without causing saturation. This periodic alternation ensures that the detector receives appropriate energy levels for each distance scenario, preventing pulse shape distortion while maintaining detection capability for both low-reflectivity and close-range objects.
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 the detection of objects at close range with high linearity and expanded operating range, preventing detector saturation and allowing for meaningful measurement of pulse shape characteristics like intensity and reflectivity.
Implementation Method 1
at least one beam source (2) for generating at least one electromagnetic beam (4)
Implementation Method 2
a deflection unit (6) for deflecting the at least one generated electromagnetic beam (4) along the scan angle
Implementation Method 3
Conventional LIDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) devices are pulsed direct time-of-flight systems which measure the time between emission and reception of a short, high-energy beam pulse
Implementation Method 4
The at least one electromagnetic beam reflected at an object is received and detected
Data Source
AI summary
A method for scanning a scan angle, in which at least one electromagnetic beam is generated, the at least one electromagnetic beam is deflected along the scan angle, and the at least one electromagnetic beam, reflected at an object, is received and detected, wherein after at least one first electromagnetic beam, at least one second electromagnetic beam is generated and the second electromagnetic beam is generated with a lower energy than the first electromagnetic beam. A LIDAR device is also disclosed.