Solid-State LiDAR Laser Matrix Control for High-Resolution Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current LIDAR systems for autonomous vehicles rely on mechanical scanning and a limited number of lasers, which are not reliable and efficient for wide environmental operating ranges, and face challenges in electrically connecting and controlling large numbers of lasers in solid-state systems.
Innovation Solution
A solid-state LIDAR system using a 2D matrix of lasers with a matrix-addressable laser drive circuit that allows individual control of each laser, enabling independent operation and optimal electrical characteristics for energizing, thereby eliminating the need for mechanical scanning and improving reliability and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical scanning is used in LIDAR systems, then the system can achieve environmental mapping, but the reliability and efficiency for wide environmental operating ranges deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical scanning components with a solid-state laser array that can be electronically controlled. The laser array comprises multiple laser diodes arranged in a specific pattern, allowing electronic beam steering and environmental mapping without moving parts, thereby improving reliability while maintaining wide operational adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the LIDAR system into multiple independent laser diodes within an array configuration. Each laser diode can be individually controlled and addressed, allowing the system to achieve wide environmental coverage through coordinated operation of multiple segments rather than relying on a single mechanical scanner
2Measurement precision
If a large number of lasers are used in solid-state systems, then the measurement resolution improves, but the complexity of electrical connections and control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple laser diodes into a single integrated array structure that shares common electrical connections and control pathways. The laser array is designed with shared power supply lines and control signals, reducing the overall complexity of electrical connections while maintaining the ability to individually address each laser element for high-resolution measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal control architecture where a single control circuit can address and control multiple laser diodes through multiplexed signaling. The system uses a unified electrical connection scheme that serves multiple functions: power delivery, signal routing, and control, thereby reducing complexity while supporting high measurement precision
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
The system achieves high-resolution 3D mapping with improved reliability and cost-effectiveness by allowing individual control of each laser, enhancing the measurement resolution and reducing the need for complex electrical connections, while maintaining low power consumption and minimizing optical cross-talk.
Implementation Method 1
the laser diode emits laser light when forward biased through application of a voltage greater than a forward voltage threshold
Data Source
AI summary
A solid state LIDAR transmitter includes a two dimensional array of laser devices having columns and rows and configured such that anodes of laser devices in a column are connected to a common anode connection and cathodes of laser devices in a row are connected to a common cathode connection. A capacitive discharge circuit comprises a first switch configured so the capacitive discharge circuit charges to a voltage potential when the first switch is open and discharges when the first switch is closed. A second switch is configured such that the common cathode connection is coupled to ground when the second switch is closed. A controller is configured to instruct the first switch and the second switch to close at a time t0 such that the capacitive discharge circuit charges to the voltage potential at a time, t1, thereby causing a laser device connected between the capacitive discharge circuit and the second switch to generate an optical pulse.