Constant Interference Detector for LIDAR Signal Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Detection of periodic electromagnetic signals, such as those used in LIDAR systems, is challenging in environments with constant interference, like bright sunlight, leading to reduced accuracy and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A constant interference detector is implemented, which determines if a received signal exceeds a programmable threshold value for a programmable period, using a DC detection block, constant interference threshold block, and logic block to differentiate between valid and invalid signals, and adaptively adjusts thresholds based on environmental conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a receiver is designed to receive periodic electromagnetic signals in a constant interference environment, then the detection capability is maintained, but the accuracy and reliability of signal detection deteriorates due to interference from constant signals like sunlight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection process into two distinct phases: a first time period where a first electromagnetic signal is received and used to establish a baseline threshold, and a second time period where a second electromagnetic signal is received and evaluated against that threshold. This temporal segmentation allows the system to separate the periodic signal of interest from constant interference, improving detection accuracy while maintaining reliability in challenging environments like bright sunlight
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by receiving and analyzing the first electromagnetic signal before receiving the second signal. The threshold is established in advance during the first time period, allowing the system to be prepared and calibrated before the actual detection of the target signal occurs in the second time period. This preliminary threshold establishment enables the system to distinguish valid periodic signals from constant interference more effectively
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are systems and methods that detect an electromagnetic signal in a constant interference environment. In one embodiment, the electromagnetic signal is a light signal. A constant interference detector may detect false signal “hits” generated by constant interference, such as bright light saturation, from valid signals. The constant interference detector determines if there is constant interference for a time period that is greater than a time period of the valid signal. In one embodiment, if a received signal exceeds a programmable threshold value for a programmable period of time, when compared to previously stored ambient light, a control signal is generated to inform the next higher network layer of a sudden change in ambient light. This control signal can be used to either discard the present return or process the signal in a different way. A constant interference detector may be a component of a LIDAR system.