Dynamic Signal Gain Adjustment for LIDAR Receiver Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
LIDAR devices face challenges in maintaining a dynamic range for signal receivers due to the attenuation of reflected light signals over long distances, leading to difficulties in detecting both near and far objects simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A method is implemented where a varying signal gain is applied to the received signal over time, with lower gains for near objects and higher gains for far objects, achieved by adjusting the operating voltage of the signal receiver, allowing for a larger dynamic range and improved detection capabilities across a wider range of distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the sensitivity of the signal receiver is increased to detect far-away objects, then the ability to detect far objects is improved, but the dynamic range of the signal receiver deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the signal receiver's sensitivity adjustable over time. The receiver transitions from a static sensitivity state to a dynamic one where sensitivity is continuously varied during the measurement period, allowing adaptation to different signal strengths from objects at different distances.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the sensitivity parameter of the signal receiver over time. By varying the sensitivity parameter dynamically during the measurement period, the system can accommodate both strong signals from near objects and weak signals from far objects within the same measurement window.
2Reliability
If a fixed high signal gain is applied to enhance far object detection, then far object detection is improved, but near object detection accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by applying signal gain in a time-varying manner during the measurement period. Different gain levels are applied at different time intervals, with higher gain applied later in the period when weak signals from far objects arrive, and lower gain applied earlier when strong signals from near objects are received.
Solution Approach 2:
The signal gain is made dynamic rather than fixed. The gain parameter changes continuously or in steps during the measurement period, allowing the system to optimize detection for both near and far objects within the same operational cycle.
3Measurement precision
If a fixed low signal gain is applied to maintain near object detection accuracy, then near object detection is improved, but far object detection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The signal gain transitions from a static low value to a dynamic varying value. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to start with low gain for near object detection and progressively increase gain to enhance far object detection capability within the same measurement period.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous useful action by applying signal gain throughout the entire measurement period rather than using discrete fixed gain levels. The continuous variation of gain ensures that both near and far objects are detected without interruption or loss of capability.
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 ability of LIDAR devices to detect objects over an increased range of distances by compensating for signal attenuation, thereby improving the dynamic range and accuracy of range-finding capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
A LIDAR device may use laser light in a range of wavelengths/frequencies, e.g., ultraviolet, visible, or infrared, to illuminate and acquire information on a variety of different types of objects
Implementation Method 2
a signal amplifier configured to increase a signal gain that is applied to the received reflected signal
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, devices, and systems that may help improve the dynamic range of a signal receiver. The method includes (i) causing a signal emitter to emit a signal during a first period of time; (ii) receiving, at the signal receiver, a reflected signal during a second period of time, where the received reflected signal corresponds to the emitted signal, and where the second period of time begins after a beginning of the first period of time; and (iii) increasing a signal gain that is applied to the received reflected signal during a third period of time, where the third period of time begins not earlier than a beginning of the second period of time.