Non-Uniform LiDAR Optics to Prevent Near-Object Sensor Saturation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous robots equipped with traditional lidar systems face challenges in efficiently detecting obstacles due to limited detection regions and high costs associated with sensor assembly and calibration, leading to issues like obstacle pushing and saturation problems.
Innovation Solution
A non-uniform light-emitting lidar apparatus is introduced, featuring a light source, diffuser, and optical element that changes the optical profile of emitted light, allowing for varying light intensities based on distance, preventing sensor saturation and improving obstacle detection with a single 3D sensor, which reduces assembly costs and enhances SLAM functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple sensors are used for obstacle detection, then detection coverage is improved, but assembly complexity and calibration time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensing functions (depth detection, 3D imaging, and obstacle detection) into a single lidar sensor. The time-of-flight measurement capability detects both near and far obstacles, while the imaging function provides spatial information, replacing the need for multiple separate sensors and reducing assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lidar sensor is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it detects obstacle distances through time-of-flight measurements, captures 3D spatial information through imaging, and identifies both near and far obstacles. This multi-functionality allows a single sensor to replace multiple specialized sensors.
2Reliability
If uniform light is emitted for obstacle detection, then detection consistency is maintained, but sensor saturation occurs with near objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different light intensities to different spatial regions: higher light intensity is directed toward distant objects to ensure sufficient signal return, while lower light intensity is directed toward near objects to prevent sensor saturation. This local differentiation of light quality resolves the contradiction between detection consistency and saturation prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the light intensity parameter based on the spatial position of objects. By changing the intensity parameter locally for different distance zones, the system maintains reliable detection across varying distances without causing saturation to near objects.
3Length of stationary object
If high light intensity is used for distant object detection, then detection range is extended, but near object detection causes sensor saturation
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is designed to emit light with spatially varying intensity: higher intensity toward distant regions extends detection range, while lower intensity toward near regions prevents saturation. This local quality differentiation allows the system to achieve both extended range and saturation prevention simultaneously.
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
The non-uniform light-emitting lidar apparatus enhances photographing efficiency by ensuring proper light distribution, preventing sensor saturation, and improving the detection of both near and distant objects, thereby facilitating smoother autonomous robot navigation and reducing assembly costs.
Implementation Method 1
a diffuser arranged on an optical path of light emitted from the light source and configured to diffuse light
Implementation Method 2
an optical element arranged on an optical path of diffusing light diffused from the diffuser and configured to change an optical profile of the diffusing light to be non-uniform
Implementation Method 3
a 3D sensor configured to sense a location of an object by receiving reflection light from the object
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are non-uniform light-emitting lidar (light detection and ranging) apparatuses and autonomous robots including the same. A lidar apparatus may include a light source configured to emit light, an optical unit arranged on an optical path of light emitted from the light source and configured to change an optical profile of the light to be non-uniform, and a 3D sensor configured to sense location of an object by receiving reflection light from the object.