Lidar Scanning Device With Selectable Optical Imaging Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lidar scanning devices are typically limited to a single monitoring region, making them inflexible for use in various driver assistance systems on motor vehicles, as they require permanent optical imaging elements suited for specific applications.
Innovation Solution
A lidar scanning device equipped with multiple optical imaging elements, such as taper optics, refractive, and diffractive elements, allowing for the combination and selection of different monitoring regions with varying spread angles and orientations, enabling the same device to be used for multiple purposes like anti-collision and parking assistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single optical imaging element is used in the lidar scanning device, then the device structure remains simple and cost-effective, but the device can only be permanently assigned to a specific purpose or group of similar applications with a fixed monitoring region
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multi-functionality by providing multiple optical imaging elements (first, second, and third imaging elements) that can be selectively positioned in the optical path. Each imaging element is configured with different geometric parameters to create distinct monitoring regions, allowing the same lidar device to serve multiple applications such as long-range detection, short-range detection, and panoramic monitoring without requiring separate dedicated devices for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the optical imaging element selection variable rather than fixed. A positioning mechanism enables dynamic switching between different imaging elements based on the required monitoring region. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the device to adapt its characteristics in real-time, transitioning from a static single-purpose device to a dynamic multi-purpose system that can respond to different operational requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple optical imaging elements are provided in the optical path, then the same lidar scanning device can be used for different purposes with different monitoring regions, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the optical imaging function into multiple discrete imaging elements, each optimized for specific monitoring region requirements. Instead of using a single complex imaging element that tries to handle all scenarios, the system segments the functionality into specialized components (first imaging element for long-range, second for short-range, third for panoramic) that can be selectively activated based on the application needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by providing a positioning mechanism that contains and manages multiple imaging elements within a compact structure. The imaging elements are arranged and positioned within the same device housing, with the positioning mechanism enabling selective placement of different imaging elements into the active optical path. This nested arrangement allows multiple functional elements to coexist in a space-efficient manner without requiring separate external devices.
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 allows for the same lidar scanning device to be adapted for different applications by varying the monitoring regions, enhancing its versatility and robustness, and enabling concurrent or sequential use of monitoring regions, thereby improving its signal-to-noise ratio and increasing its reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
The light source emits light onto an object; a light detector for receiving light that was reflected by the object
Implementation Method 2
A refractive element is based on the refraction of light and may comprise for example a lens or a prism
Implementation Method 3
A diffractive element is based on the diffraction of light and may operate with the aid of a microstructure for example
Implementation Method 4
A taper optics is usually formed from a large number of light-conducting fibers, which project light from an input face onto an output face
Data Source
AI summary
A lidar scanning device for use in a motor vehicle includes a light source for emitting light onto an object; a light detector for receiving light that was reflected by the object; and multiple optical imaging elements in the optical path between the object and the light detector.