LiDAR Fiber Channels Using Collimation Lens for Compact Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LiDAR systems with multiple transmitter and receiver channels face challenges in maintaining compactness and reliability due to increased dimensions and complexity, which affects their performance in scanning resolution and speed, especially when operating in varying environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
The use of multiple transmitter and receiver optical fibers with a preconfigured pitch and a single collimation lens to achieve desired angular channel spacing, reducing the system's dimensions and complexity while improving scanning performance and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple transmitter and receiver channels are used to improve scanning resolution and speed, then the scanning performance is improved, but the system dimensions and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple transmitter optical fibers and receiver optical fibers into integrated fiber bundles, where multiple individual optical fibers are merged into a single structured unit. This merging approach maintains the multi-channel capability for improved scanning resolution and speed while reducing overall system dimensions and complexity by consolidating what would otherwise be separate fiber assemblies into unified bundles with coordinated spatial arrangements.
Solution Approach 2:
The fiber bundles serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide mechanical support for maintaining spatial relationships between individual optical fibers, enable precise angular channel spacing through their structured geometry, and facilitate signal transmission across multiple channels. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate structural components, reducing system complexity while maintaining scanning performance.
2Productivity
If multiple transmitter and receiver channels are used to improve scanning resolution and speed, then the scanning performance is improved, but the system becomes less compact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple individual optical fibers are embedded within a common fiber bundle framework. Individual transmitter and receiver optical fibers are nested within their respective bundles, which are then positioned in coordinated spatial relationships. This nesting approach allows the system to maintain multiple functional channels for improved scanning performance while achieving a compact overall form factor, as the nested arrangement optimizes space utilization more effectively than separate discrete components.
3Quantity of substance
If traditional multi-channel configurations are used, then channel functionality is achieved, but reliability decreases in varying environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple optical fibers into integrated bundles with coordinated spatial arrangements, the system achieves improved reliability in varying environmental conditions. The bundled structure provides mechanical stability and consistent spatial relationships that are less susceptible to environmental disturbances compared to separate discrete fiber configurations. This merging maintains the multi-channel capability while enhancing robustness against environmental variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The fiber bundle structure provides beforehand cushioning by creating a mechanically stable framework that protects individual optical fibers from environmental stresses before they can cause reliability issues. The bundled configuration pre-establishes stable spatial relationships and mechanical support that cushion against vibrations, temperature variations, and other environmental factors that could otherwise degrade performance in multi-channel configurations.
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 configuration enhances the scanning resolution and speed of LiDAR systems by optimizing angular channel spacing, making them more compact and robust for use in diverse environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The use of multiple transmitter and receiver optical fibers with a preconfigured pitch and a single collimation lens to achieve desired angular channel spacing
Data Source
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AI summary
A LiDAR system is provided. The LiDAR system comprises a plurality of transmitter channels and a plurality of receiver channels. The plurality of transmitter channels are configured to transmit a plurality of transmission light beams to a field-of-view at a plurality of different transmission angles, which are then scanned to cover the entire field-of-view. The LiDAR system further comprises a collection lens disposed to receive and redirect return light obtained based on the plurality of transmission light beams illuminating one or more objects within the field-of-view. The LiDAR system further comprises a plurality of receiver channels optically coupled to the collection lens. Each of the receiver channels is optically aligned based on a transmission angle of a corresponding transmission light beam. The LiDAR system further comprises a plurality of detector assemblies optically coupled to the plurality of receiver channels.