FMCW LiDAR Light Path Converter Module for Multichannel Beam Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
FMCW LiDARs face challenges in increasing the number of beams while maintaining cost-effectiveness and reducing hardware complexity, as existing solutions require multiple light sources and complex structures, leading to high costs and large volumes.
Innovation Solution
A light path converter module that selects and outputs light signals from multiple ports arranged on a focal plane, allowing for flexible conversion of light paths without increasing the number of light sources, enabling multichannel output and reducing hardware costs by integrating the module on a chip.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the number of light sources is increased to increase the number of beams, then the angular resolution is improved, but the hardware costs and device volume increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple light paths into a single light source by using a light path converter module that distributes light from one emitter to multiple output ports. This combining approach allows multiple beams to be generated from a single light source, reducing the number of light sources needed while maintaining multibeam capability, thereby reducing hardware costs and device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The light path converter module serves multiple functions: it acts as a beam splitter, a path router, and a port selector simultaneously. This single module performs what would traditionally require multiple separate components, enabling one light source to fulfill the role of multiple light sources and reducing overall system complexity
2Reliability
If external cavity feedback devices and amplifiers are added to narrow beam width and improve coherence, then detection signal coherence is improved, but the light source structure becomes complex and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates multiple light paths by copying the optical path from a single light source through the light path converter module. Instead of adding complex feedback devices to each light source, the system copies the light path multiple times and uses a single light source, thereby maintaining coherence without increasing structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the beam width control function from the light source itself and moves it to the light path converter module. By taking out the need for external cavity feedback devices from each light source and implementing path conversion instead, the system maintains narrow beam width and coherence while simplifying the light source structure
3Measurement precision
If multiple light sources are used to reduce the angle between probe laser beams, then the angular resolution is improved, but the device volume becomes too large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple light sources into a single light source by using a light path converter module that distributes light to multiple output ports. This consolidation reduces the physical space required for multiple light sources while maintaining the ability to generate multiple beams at different angles, thereby reducing device volume
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a two-dimensional array of output ports in the light path converter module to achieve angular resolution without increasing device volume. By arranging ports in a 2D grid and selecting appropriate ports for different detection angles, the system achieves multibeam capability in a compact footprint rather than requiring linear arrangement of multiple light sources
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 solution allows for an increase in the number of beams while significantly reducing hardware costs and volume, maintaining detection accuracy and coherence without the need for additional light sources, thus enhancing the diversity and universality of FMCW LiDAR systems.
Implementation Method 1
multiple second ports are arranged on a focal plane of an emitting optical component of the FMCW LiDAR, light signals outputted from different second ports being emitted at different angles after running through the emitting optical component
Data Source
AI summary
A light path converter module includes at least one first port and multiple second ports. The at least one first port is coupled to a light emitter module. The multiple second ports are distributed at least along a first direction and are arranged on a focal plane of an emitting optical component of the FMCW LiDAR. Light signals outputted from different second ports being emitted at different angles after running through the emitting optical component. The light path converter module is configured to receive the light signal inputted from the first port and select one or more of the second ports for outputting the light signal.