Lidar Frequency Offset for Multi-Channel Data Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
LIDAR systems face challenges in generating data for larger fields of view, increased numbers of sample regions, and higher refresh rates, particularly as distance and frequency requirements become more demanding.
Innovation Solution
The LIDAR system employs multiple composite light signals with different channels, each carrying a reference and comparative signal, and induces a frequency offset between data and channel periods using the same light source, allowing for efficient data generation and channel association.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple separate light sources are used to generate LIDAR data for multiple channels, then the ability to generate data for larger fields of view and higher refresh rates is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple light sources into a single light source that generates a multi-channel LIDAR output signal. The single light source produces signals with different wavelengths (channels) simultaneously, eliminating the need for multiple separate light sources while maintaining the capability to generate LIDAR data for multiple channels at high refresh rates
Solution Approach 2:
The single light source is designed to perform multiple functions by generating LIDAR output signals across multiple wavelength channels. This multi-functional light source can illuminate different sample regions and support different measurement functions simultaneously, replacing what would traditionally require multiple specialized light sources
2Productivity
If the refresh rate is increased to generate LIDAR data faster, then the productivity is improved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring increases due to signal timing and frequency challenges
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces frequency offsets as a measurable parameter to distinguish between different time periods (LIDAR data period vs. channel period). By modulating the light frequency with specific offset patterns, the system enables accurate detection and association of LIDAR data with the correct measurement channels even at high refresh rates where timing margins are reduced
3Adaptability or versatility
If the field of view is expanded to cover larger areas, then the adaptability is improved, but the measurement precision decreases due to reduced signal strength at greater distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple wavelength channels into a single LIDAR output signal that illuminates multiple sample regions simultaneously. By using wavelength division multiplexing, the system expands the effective field of view and coverage area while maintaining sufficient signal strength through the combined energy of multiple channels
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 the LIDAR system to accelerate data generation, reduce the number of light sources needed, and effectively handle larger fields of view and higher refresh rates, while maintaining accurate data association and reduced optical loss.
Implementation Method 1
A light source generates an outgoing LIDAR signal that includes multiple channels, each of a different wavelength
Implementation Method 2
The composite signals each include light from the outgoing LIDAR signal that has been reflected by one or more objects located outside of the LIDAR system
Implementation Method 3
LIDAR technologies are being applied to a variety of applications
Implementation Method 4
Electronics induce a frequency offset in the reference signals between a LIDAR data period and a channel period
Data Source
AI summary
A LIDAR system that generates an outgoing LIDAR signal and multiple composite light signals that each carries a different channel and that each includes a contribution from a reference signal and a contribution from a comparative signal. The comparative signals each include light from the outgoing LIDAR signal that has been reflected by one or more objects located outside of the LIDAR system. The reference signals each include light from the outgoing LIDAR signal but exclude light that has been reflected by any object located outside of the LIDAR system. Electronics induce a frequency offset in the reference signals between a LIDAR data period and a channel period. The electronics use the composite signals generated during the LIDAR data period to generate LIDAR data and the composite signals generated during the channel period to associate the composite signals with the channel carried by the composite signal.