Lidar Sensor Dynamic Projection Patterns for Range Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lidar systems face challenges in extending their detectable range while maintaining high resolution, especially when dealing with moving objects, as existing methods like SLAM assume static objects and may not accurately apply to dynamic scenarios, and increasing dot density for improved sensitivity leads to lower resolution.
Innovation Solution
The use of multiple projector patterns with different dot densities and wavelengths, combined with a germanium-on-silicon photodetector, allows for extended range detection while maintaining high resolution by projecting high power density patterns for distance and low power density patterns for closer objects, and leveraging different wavelengths for eye safety and power efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dot density is increased to improve sensitivity and extend detectable range, then range detection capability is improved, but resolution deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different optical patterns with varying dot densities based on the detection requirements. A first optical pattern with higher dot density is used for extending detection range, while a second optical pattern with lower dot density is used for maintaining resolution, allowing the system to adapt to different operating conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of dot density by projecting multiple optical patterns with different characteristics. By varying the dot density parameter between different patterns, the system can optimize for either range or resolution depending on the specific detection scenario
2Measurement precision
If high power density patterns are used to extend detection range, then detectable range is extended, but eye safety risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic modulation of the optical patterns, alternating between high power density patterns for range extension and lower power density patterns for safety. This periodic switching allows the system to achieve extended range detection while limiting the continuous exposure to high power levels, thereby maintaining eye safety
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces wavelength modulation as an intermediary mechanism. By using different wavelengths (such as 905nm and 1550nm) with different eye safety characteristics, the system can achieve extended range detection at wavelengths that are safer for the human eye, particularly utilizing the fact that 1550nm radiation is less harmful to the eye
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
This approach enables Lidar systems to effectively extend their detectable range while maintaining high resolution and ensuring eye safety, even in dynamic environments, by combining the benefits of high power density for distance and low power density for closer objects, and utilizing different wavelengths for improved performance.
Implementation Method 1
a germanium-based receiver formed on a silicon substrate, the germanium-based receiver configured to receive a first reflected optical pattern representing a reflection of the first optical pattern from the surface of the object
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for sensing objects are provided. An optical apparatus can include a transmitter configured to project on a surface of an object, a first optical pattern having a first set of characteristics and a second optical pattern having a second set of characteristics. The optical apparatus can include a receiver configured to receive first and second reflected optical patterns representing a reflection of the first optical pattern and the second optical pattern from the surface of the object, and generate first and second electrical signals representing the first and the second reflected optical patterns. The optical apparatus can include one or more processors configured to receive the first electrical signals and the second electrical signals, and determine one or more characteristics of the object, including range information of the object.