LiDAR Mirror Assembly Reducing Actuation Force via Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional light steering systems using a single micro-mirror to achieve a two-dimensional field of view require high actuation forces, leading to reduced reliability and increased risk of actuator failure, as well as increased mass and inertia of the mirror, which complicates achieving a target field of view and dispersion angle.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a light steering system utilizing multiple rotatable mirrors, each with a single orthogonal rotational axis, allows for independent optimization of actuation forces and reduces the burden on actuators, enhancing reliability and precision while maintaining or improving the field of view and dispersion performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single micro-mirror is used to achieve two-dimensional field of view, then the field of view requirement is met, but the actuation force required increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single micro-mirror into multiple smaller mirrors (first rotatable mirror and second rotatable mirror), each responsible for a portion of the light steering task. This segmentation reduces the actuation force required for each individual mirror while collectively achieving the required two-dimensional field of view.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single micro-mirror is used to achieve two-dimensional field of view, then the field of view requirement is met, but the reliability decreases due to higher actuator burden
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the mirror system into multiple independent rotatable mirrors, each with its own actuator. This distribution of functionality reduces the burden on each actuator, improving reliability by avoiding single-point failure and reducing the risk of actuator failure.
3Device complexity
If a single micro-mirror is used, then the structure is simpler, but the mass and inertia increase complicating field of view and dispersion angle achievement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single large micro-mirror into multiple smaller mirrors (first rotatable mirror and second rotatable mirror). Each smaller mirror has reduced mass and moment of inertia, making them easier to rotate and control, thereby achieving the target field of view and dispersion angle with less mechanical burden.
4Reliability
If multiple rotatable mirrors are used, then the actuation force is reduced and reliability improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple rotatable mirrors (first rotatable mirror and second rotatable mirror) with orthogonal rotational axes. While this increases the number of components, each component is simpler in design, and the modular structure allows for independent optimization and maintenance, balancing the trade-off between reliability and complexity.
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 reduces the actuation force and power required, increases the lifespan of actuators, and mitigates the risk of single-point failure, resulting in improved robustness and performance of the light steering system.
Implementation Method 1
a micro-mirror can be connected to a substrate via a connection structure (e.g., a torsion bar, a spring, etc.) to form a pivot, and the micro-mirror can be rotated around the pivot by the actuator. Each micro-mirror can be rotated by a rotation angle to reflect (and steer) light from a light source towards at a target direction.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the disclosure provide a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) system that includes a light source configured to emit a light beam, a first apparatus configured to adjust the light beam and a second apparatus configured to adjust the light beam and receive the reflected light beam from the first apparatus and an object. The first apparatus includes a first rotatable mirror configured to receive and reflect the light beam, and a first actuator configured to rotate the first rotatable mirror. The second apparatus includes a second adjustable mirror configured to receive and propagate the light beam, and a second actuator configured to adjust the second adjustable mirror, and a detector configured to receive the light beam reflected by objects.