2D LiDAR 3D Mapping via Reciprocating Actuator
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional 2D LiDAR systems are limited in their ability to provide a complete 3D field of view due to mechanical constraints and require complex and maintenance-intensive solutions for power and data transfer, making them less effective for autonomous platforms compared to more expensive 3D LiDAR products.
Innovation Solution
A method that modifies a 2D LiDAR system by rocking the assembly back and forth about an axis parallel to the scanned plane, allowing for the generation of 3D terrain images without the need for slip-ring electrical contacts or battery-powered operation, using a reciprocating actuator to create a 3D field of view by alternating the direction of rotation prior to completing a full revolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a 2D LiDAR uses a spinning mirror to create a horizontal beam sweep, then the device is inexpensive and robust, but the sweep only covers a narrow horizontal sliver of the environment and creates blind spots
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by adding a second rotational degree of freedom to the 2D LiDAR system. The LiDAR assembly rotates about a vertical axis (azimuth rotation) in addition to the horizontal beam sweep, transforming the scanning pattern from a single-plane arc to a three-dimensional spherical coverage. This allows the inexpensive 2D LiDAR to achieve 360-degree horizontal coverage and 3D mapping capability without requiring a complex mechanically tilted or fully rotating 3D LiDAR design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a 3D LiDAR mechanically tilts or spins the basic 2D LiDAR to expand field of view, then more complete coverage is achieved, but complex mechanical linkages are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the rotational motion into two independent components: a fast horizontal beam sweep (original 2D LiDAR function) and a slower azimuth rotation of the entire LiDAR assembly. This segmentation allows each rotational component to be independently controlled and simplified, avoiding the need for complex mechanically tilted designs while achieving 3D coverage. The azimuth rotation is implemented as a separate rotational joint rather than being mechanically integrated into the scanning mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a second rotational dimension (azimuth angle) to the original 2D scanning plane, creating a 3D scanning volume. This dimensional expansion is achieved through independent rotational actuators rather than complex mechanical linkages, simplifying the overall system architecture while achieving complete 360-degree horizontal coverage and 3D mapping capability.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If slip-ring electrical contacts are used to provide power and data to a spinning LiDAR, then continuous operation is enabled, but mechanical wear and potential failure points are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the rotating components (mirror and LiDAR assembly) from the stationary power and data connection system. By implementing the azimuth rotation as a discrete rotational joint separate from the beam sweep mechanism, the system can use wireless power transfer or battery-powered operation for the rotating assembly, eliminating the need for slip-ring electrical contacts and their associated mechanical wear and failure points.
4Reliability
If batteries are co-located on the spinning LiDAR unit to eliminate slip-rings, then mechanical wear is reduced, but service uptime is limited by battery capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical battery-powered rotating assembly with a stationary power source connected through wireless power transfer or a fixed electrical connection. The rotating LiDAR assembly receives power wirelessly or through a stationary conduit, eliminating the need for onboard batteries while maintaining reduced mechanical wear. This substitution enables unlimited service uptime without compromising the reliability benefits of eliminating slip-rings.
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 enables nearly complete 3D field coverage while reducing mechanical wear and maintenance requirements, providing flexible wiring solutions for continuous power and minimizing failure points, thus offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional 3D LiDAR systems.
Implementation Method 1
the difference in time between transmitted and returned signals determines the distance to, and shape of objects in the environment
Implementation Method 2
LiDAR uses ultraviolet, visible, or near infrared light to image objects
Implementation Method 3
A fixed 2D LiDAR can be constructed by bouncing a laser beam off a spinning mirror
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method are presented for using a two-dimensional (2D) LiDAR for three dimensional (3D) laser mapping. The 2D-LiDAR is mounted in a chassis. The method laser ranges a planar slice of the environment. Simultaneous with laser ranging the planar slice, the 2D LiDAR chassis is rotated about an axis to create a 3D laser mapping of at least a portion of the environment. More explicitly, the 2D LiDAR may include a laser ranger with a planar actuator, typically the combination of a laser and a rotating mirror. In addition, the 2D LiDAR chassis is mounted on a reciprocating actuator. Thus, the step of laser ranging the planar slice includes laser ranging the planar slice in response to the planar actuator. The step of rotating the 2D LiDAR chassis includes rotating the 2D LiDAR chassis around an axis parallel to the planar slice, in response to the reciprocating actuator.