LiDAR Steering Correction via Ring Resonator Wavelength Tuning
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Solution Overview
Problem
LiDAR devices face challenges in correcting initial wavelength differences due to manufacturing dispersion, leading to errors in beam steering and reduced accuracy in distance measurement.
Innovation Solution
The LiDAR device employs a processor-controlled system with a light transmitter and receiver, utilizing a ring resonator configuration to adjust the wavelength of the laser beam, and an optical phase array for beam steering, allowing for real-time correction of the steering direction based on detected light patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a ring resonator is used to generate light of a variable wavelength, then the steering direction of the laser beam can be adjusted, but manufacturing dispersion causes initial wavelength differences that lead to large dispersion during beam steering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by measuring the steering direction of the laser beam before actual beam steering operations. The processor determines the initial steering direction based on light received during a measurement period, then uses this information to calculate correction values that compensate for manufacturing-induced wavelength variations. This preliminary measurement and correction calculation enables the system to adapt to actual resonator characteristics before precision beam steering begins.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring the steering direction through light detection and using this information to adjust subsequent beam steering operations. The processor receives light from the resonator, determines the actual steering direction, calculates the difference from the expected direction, and applies correction values to compensate for manufacturing dispersion. This closed-loop feedback system ensures accurate beam steering despite initial wavelength variations.
2Device complexity
If beam steering is performed without correcting for initial wavelength differences, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and reliability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the LiDAR device to automatically characterize and correct its own manufacturing-induced steering errors. The processor performs self-calibration by measuring the actual steering direction of the resonator, calculating correction values, and applying these corrections during normal operation. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external calibration equipment or manual adjustment mechanisms, maintaining device simplicity while improving measurement precision.
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 effectively corrects the steering direction of the laser beam, ensuring accurate distance measurement and reducing errors caused by manufacturing dispersion, thereby enhancing the precision and reliability of the LiDAR system.
Implementation Method 1
the wavelength may be changed by varying a resonance oscillation condition of a laser by using a device such as a ring resonator
Implementation Method 2
A light detection and ranging (LiDAR) device emits a laser beam and detects light reflected from a target object within a measurement range of the LiDAR device
Implementation Method 3
the LiDAR device measures a distance to the object by using a time-of-flight (TOF) method
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) device including a housing including a window configured to transmit light, a light transmitter provided in the housing and configured to output light toward an object outside of the housing, an optical element provided adjacent to the window, first light from among the light being incident on the optical element, a light receiver provided in the housing and configured to receive, from among the light, second light reflected from the object, and a processor configured to change a steering direction of the light such that a ratio of the first light to the light is reduced.