Solid-State LIDAR Transmitter Using Microlens Arrays for Fast 3D Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current LIDAR systems for autonomous vehicles rely on mechanical scanning with a limited number of lasers, which hinders fast scanning rates, integration reliability, and wide environmental operating ranges.
Innovation Solution
The development of a solid-state, pulsed time-of-flight LIDAR system using a two-dimensional VCSEL array with a transmit optical system that employs two microlens arrays and a bulk lens, enabling high-resolution 3D mapping with improved scanning rates and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If mechanical scanning is used with a limited number of lasers, then the system structure is simpler, but the scanning rate is limited and reliability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical scanning components (motors, mirrors, moving parts) with a solid-state VCSEL array that uses electronic control to steer laser beams. The VCSEL array with microlens arrays enables beam steering through electrical control of individual laser elements, eliminating mechanical moving parts while achieving faster scanning rates and improved reliability through solid-state operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the laser source into a two-dimensional array of multiple VCSEL elements rather than using a single laser. Each VCSEL can be independently controlled to emit beams in different directions, enabling parallel scanning across multiple spatial positions simultaneously. This segmentation of the laser source into an array structure allows for faster overall scanning by distributing the scanning task across multiple independent laser elements
2Reliability
If mechanical scanning components are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the integration reliability and environmental operating range are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical scanning components (motors, mirrors, moving parts) with a solid-state VCSEL array that uses electronic control to steer laser beams. The VCSEL array with microlens arrays enables beam steering through electrical control of individual laser elements, eliminating mechanical moving parts while achieving faster scanning rates and improved reliability through solid-state operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the laser system by using VCSELs that can be electrically controlled to change beam direction and positioning. Instead of mechanically moving components, the system electronically adjusts parameters such as which VCSEL elements are activated and at what timing, enabling reliable operation across wide environmental ranges without mechanical wear or positioning errors
3Productivity
If a solid-state VCSEL array is used, then scanning rates and reliability are improved, but the optical system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where microlens arrays are positioned within or in close proximity to the VCSEL array structure. The microlens arrays are integrated with the VCSEL elements, with each microlens associated with one or more VCSELs. This nested arrangement allows the optical focusing and beam steering functions to be embedded within the laser array structure itself, reducing the need for separate external optical components and minimizing overall system complexity despite the advanced functionality
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 provides a high-resolution LIDAR system with enhanced scanning rates, improved reliability, and extended operating ranges, facilitating more accurate 3D environmental mapping for autonomous vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
a laser array, such as a two-dimensional (2D) vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) array
Implementation Method 2
uses two microlens arrays and a bulk lens
Implementation Method 3
solid-state, pulsed time-of-flight (TOF) LIDAR system
Data Source
AI summary
A solid-state LIDAR transmitter includes a laser array comprising first and second laser pixels that each generate first and second sub-aperture beams. A first microlens focuses first and second sub-aperture beams generated by the first laser pixel and focuses first and second sub-aperture beams generated by the second laser pixel. A second microlens directs the first and second sub-aperture beams generated by the first pixel such that they overlap at a plane. A lens projects the first sub-aperture beam generated by the first laser pixel and the first sub-aperture beam generated by the second laser pixel with a different angle in the far field in order to achieve a desired spatial resolution of the LIDAR system.