Adaptive LiDAR Range Coverage With Dynamic Listening Windows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LIDAR systems face challenges in efficiently scanning environments due to fixed listening window durations, which can lead to reduced resolution and increased cycle time, especially when interacting with objects at varying distances.
Innovation Solution
The system dynamically adjusts listening window durations based on the emission angle and predicted distance of light pulses, allowing for more efficient data collection and improved resolution by optimizing the timing of light pulses and their reception.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fixed listening window durations are used in LIDAR systems, then the system operation is simplified, but the resolution and efficiency deteriorate when interacting with objects at varying distances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic listening window adjustment where the duration of the listening window is varied based on the predicted distance to objects. The controller adjusts the listening window duration for each light pulse based on the three-dimensional map and emission vector, allowing the system to optimize resolution for different ranges rather than using a fixed duration for all measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of listening window duration based on the emission angle and predicted distance. By calculating the expected round-trip time for light pulses at different angles and distances, the controller dynamically adjusts the listening window parameter to match the specific measurement requirements, improving resolution without uniformly increasing complexity.
2Productivity
If fixed listening window durations are used, then the system configuration is simplified, but the cycle time increases due to unnecessary waiting
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the listening window duration to match the predicted round-trip time for each light pulse. By calculating the expected distance based on the three-dimensional map and emission vector, the controller sets the listening window to expire just when the reflected light is expected to return, eliminating unnecessary waiting time while ensuring no valid returns are missed.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller performs preliminary calculations of the predicted distance and round-trip time before emitting each light pulse. Based on the three-dimensional map and emission vector, the system pre-determines the optimal listening window duration, allowing the listening window to be precisely timed to coincide with the expected return of reflected light, thereby minimizing cycle time without sacrificing detection accuracy.
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 enhances the resolution and efficiency of LIDAR systems by reducing unnecessary waiting times and allowing for more frequent emission of light pulses, thereby improving the accuracy of environmental mapping.
Implementation Method 1
detecting a returning pulse, if any, reflected from an object in the environment
Implementation Method 2
transmitting a laser pulse and detecting a returning pulse
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to systems and methods that facilitate light detection and ranging operations. An example method includes determining, for at least one light-emitter device of a plurality of light-emitter devices, a light pulse schedule. The plurality of light-emitter devices is operable to emit light along a plurality of emission vectors. The light pulse schedule is based on a respective emission vector of the at least one light-emitter device and a three-dimensional map of an external environment. The light pulse schedule includes at least one light pulse parameter and a listening window duration. The method also includes causing the at least one light-emitter device of the plurality of light-emitter devices to emit a light pulse according to the light pulse schedule. The light pulse interacts with an external environment.