2D LiDAR Steering via Rotating Polygon and Multi-Wavelength Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional LiDAR systems face complexity and ambiguity issues due to mechanical components and limitations in scanning range and point density when using a single light source, leading to reduced detection capabilities and increased system complexity.
Innovation Solution
The use of multiple light sources with different wavelengths and dispersion elements to direct light signals in various directions, allowing for overlapping scan areas and fine adjustments in optical paths, reducing mechanical components and increasing scanning efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single light source is used in conventional LiDAR systems, then the system structure is simpler, but the scanning range and point density are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the scanning function into multiple independent light sources, each responsible for a specific angular sector. This segmentation allows each light source to cover a focused area while collectively achieving complete 360-degree coverage, resolving the contradiction between simple structure and comprehensive scanning range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from single-dimension scanning to multi-dimensional scanning by arranging multiple light sources at different angular positions around the rotating polygon. This dimensional expansion enables simultaneous coverage of multiple spatial sectors, increasing the effective scanning range without proportionally increasing system complexity.
2Ease of operation
If mechanical components are used for pulse steering, then the scanning function is achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical pulse steering mechanisms with a simplified rotating polygon mirror system. Instead of using multiple moving mechanical components to steer individual pulses, a single rotating polygon with multiple reflective surfaces performs the steering function for all light sources simultaneously, reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining scanning capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating polygon mirror serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the scanning element for all light sources, provides the rotating motion that creates angular separation, and enables both transmission and reception paths. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanical components for each function.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple light sources with different wavelengths are used, then the scanning capabilities are enhanced, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes different wavelengths (colors) of light from multiple light sources to encode different angular sectors. Each wavelength is associated with a specific angular range, allowing the system to distinguish and process returns from different directions based on wavelength, thereby enhancing scanning capabilities while managing complexity through spectral differentiation.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotating polygon mirror acts as an intermediary that spatially separates different wavelengths at different angular positions. This intermediary element enables the system to handle multiple wavelengths without requiring complex wavelength-specific detection paths, as the rotation naturally directs each wavelength to its designated detection sector.
4Area of stationary object
If the detection range is extended, then the coverage area increases, but the point density may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent ensures continuous scanning coverage across the extended detection range by having multiple light sources operate simultaneously at different angular positions. As the rotating polygon continues its rotation, each light source continuously scans its designated sector, maintaining continuous point cloud generation across the entire extended range without gaps or reduced density.
Solution Approach 2:
The extended detection range is divided into multiple angular sectors, each scanned by a dedicated light source. This segmentation allows each light source to maintain high point density within its specific sector while the collective system achieves extended overall coverage, resolving the contradiction between range and density.
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 simplifies the LiDAR system design, enhances scanning capabilities, and maintains or increases point density while extending the detection range without sacrificing unambiguous measurements.
Implementation Method 1
a rotatable polygon with a plurality of reflective sides including a first reflective side. The rotatable polygon scans one or more first light signals in a first direction.
Implementation Method 2
A scanning optic scans the one or more first light signals in a second direction different than the first direction.
Implementation Method 3
One or more optics focus the first return light signal on the first detector.
Data Source
AI summary
A light detection and ranging (LiDAR) system includes a rotatable polygon having a plurality of reflective sides including a first reflective side. The rotatable polygon configured to scan one or more first light signals in a first direction. The LiDAR system also includes a scanning optic configured to scan the one or more first light signals in a second direction different than the first direction. A first light source is configured to direct the one or more first light signals to one or more of the plurality of reflective sides of the rotatable polygon or the scanning optic. A first detector is configured to detect a first return light signal associated with a signal of the one or more first light signals. One or more optics are configured to focus the first return light signal on the first detector.