LiDAR MEMS Mirror Beam Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LiDAR devices face limitations in size reduction, mechanical reliability, and measurement range extension due to the use of motors and require multiple light sources and detectors, which also restrict the types of information that can be acquired.
Innovation Solution
The use of a MEMS mirror for beam steering, an optical phase array for light dispersion, and filters to enhance light reception efficiency and accuracy, along with a collimation lens to increase emission efficiency, allows for precise control of beam steering angles and improved measurement range accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a motor is used to emit beams in multiple directions, then the measurement range is extended, but the device size increases and mechanical reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical motor system with an optical phase array that uses electromagnetic field modulation to steer beams. The optical phase array controls the phase of light waves to direct beams in different directions without mechanical movement, thereby eliminating mechanical reliability issues while maintaining measurement range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from mechanical rotation (motor angle) to optical phase modulation. By varying the phase distribution across the optical phase array elements, the beam direction is controlled electronically, achieving the same functional result without mechanical components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a motor is used to emit beams in multiple directions, then the measurement range is extended, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical motor system is replaced with a compact optical phase array that achieves beam steering through optical field control. This substitution dramatically reduces the device volume while maintaining the capability to emit beams in multiple directions for extended measurement range.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical phase array serves multiple functions: it generates beams, steers beams in different directions, and controls beam patterns all through a single integrated optical component system, eliminating the need for separate mechanical steering mechanisms and reducing overall device size.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources and detectors are used to extend measurement range, then the measurement range is extended, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical phase array serves as a universal component that handles both beam generation and steering functions. By modulating the phase across different regions of the array, a single light source can achieve the directional control that would otherwise require multiple independent light sources and detectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple light sources and detectors into a single optical phase array system. The phase-modulated optical elements combine the capabilities of multiple independent components into one integrated system, reducing device complexity while maintaining extended measurement range.
4Use of energy by moving object
If a condensing lens is used in the light-receiving unit, then light reception efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the light-receiving function with the optical phase array that also performs beam steering. The same optical elements that modulate and direct outgoing beams also focus and detect incoming reflected light, eliminating the need for separate condensing lenses and reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical phase array elements serve dual purposes: they act as both beam-steering components for transmission and as light-focusing elements for reception. This multi-functionality improves light reception efficiency without requiring additional dedicated optical components.
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 solution enables the reduction of the optical device's size, improves mechanical reliability, simplifies the internal structure, and enhances data processing speed while increasing the accuracy and range of measurements, allowing for the acquisition of more detailed information.
Implementation Method 1
a detection unit including a micro electro-mechanical system (MEMS) mirror for changing the optical axis of the first beam by a first steering angle
Implementation Method 2
an optical phase array capable of controlling the phase of light and transmit the dispersed light to increase light reception efficiency
Implementation Method 3
can increase emission efficiency by providing a collimation lens in a light transmission device
Implementation Method 4
a beam splitting unit for separately transmitting the first beam and the second beam
Data Source
AI summary
An optical device provided by the present invention can comprise: a light transmitting unit for generating a first beam for photographing a certain area; a light receiving unit for sensing a second beam returning from the certain area; a light separating unit for distinguishing and transmitting the first beam from the second beam; and a detection unit including a micro electro-mechanical system mirror (MEMS mirror) for transmitting the first beam by changing an optical axis up to a first steering angle, and for receiving the second beam.