Lidar Linear Focal Plane Beam Steering

The patent divides the single beam path into multiple parallel beam paths by introducing an array of detectors. Each detector receives light from a specific angular direction, allowing simultaneous measurement of multiple points across a broader field of view without compromising point cloud density. The segmentation of the detection function enables parallel acquisition of distance measurements across different spatial locations.

The patent transitions from a single-beam scanning approach to a multi-beam parallel architecture by adding the detector array dimension. This dimensional expansion allows the system to capture multiple spatial points simultaneously across a broader field of view while maintaining high point cloud density through parallel detection channels.

The patent segments the detection function across multiple detectors arranged in an array, with each detector handling a specific angular sector. This segmentation enables the system to expand coverage area through the array geometry while maintaining high point cloud density by distributing measurement points across multiple parallel detection channels rather than spreading them out through beam path alteration.

The patent combines multiple detector elements into a unified array structure that simultaneously captures light from multiple angular directions. This merging of detection capabilities allows the system to achieve both broad coverage area and high point cloud density by processing multiple spatial channels in parallel within a single integrated system.

The patent replaces mechanical scanning systems (rotating mirrors, gimbals) with a static detector array configuration. The field of view expansion is achieved through the geometric arrangement of multiple detectors rather than mechanical movement, eliminating complex actuation mechanisms while maintaining broad coverage capability.

The patent segments the detection function across multiple fixed detectors arranged in an array, eliminating the need for mechanical scanning. Each detector is positioned to capture light from a specific angular direction, allowing the system to achieve broad field of view through static geometric configuration rather than dynamic mechanical actuation.

The patent merges multiple detector elements into a unified array structure with shared optical components and processing electronics. This integration allows the system to achieve high image update rates through parallel detection while reducing alignment complexity by establishing fixed geometric relationships between detectors and common optical elements, eliminating the need for independent alignment of multiple separate emitter-detector pairs.

The patent creates a multi-functional detector array where each detector element serves multiple purposes: detecting light from specific angular directions, providing spatial resolution, and contributing to the overall point cloud reconstruction. This universal design allows the system to achieve high imaging speed through parallel detection while simplifying alignment through standardized, repeatable detector positioning and shared optical pathways.