LiDAR Servo Profile Reconfiguration for Adaptive Beam Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
LiDAR systems face challenges in providing accurate detection resolution across all desired areas under varying operating conditions, particularly in adapting to different operational environments such as changes in elevation, direction, and target locations within a field of view.
Innovation Solution
A closed-loop servo control system that adjusts beam point densities across the field of view using a feedforward system with a plant model and observer module, incorporating external sensor inputs to dynamically adjust scanning profiles and focus electromagnetic radiation on regions of interest, optimizing resolution based on operational environments like road curvature, target identification, and vehicle motion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If uniform beam point density is applied across the entire field of view, then the system structure is simple and energy consumption is low, but detection precision is insufficient in specific regions of interest
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing variable beam point density across different regions of the field of view. Specifically, regions of interest (such as areas with detected targets or areas requiring higher surveillance) receive higher beam point density for enhanced detection precision, while other regions maintain lower density to conserve energy and reduce data processing burden. This is achieved through the controller adjusting scan parameters dynamically based on operational requirements.
2Measurement precision
If beam point density is increased in regions of interest, then detection precision is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the beam point density adjustable and adaptive rather than static. The controller dynamically modifies the number and distribution of beam points in different field of view regions based on real-time operational conditions, such as the presence of targets, vehicle motion state, and environmental factors. This allows the system to concentrate energy where needed while reducing energy consumption in less critical areas.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the LiDAR system adapts to changing operational environments, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional sensors and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by incorporating external sensors (such as GPS, inertial measurement units, or other detection devices) that provide information about the operational environment to the controller. The controller uses this feedback information to automatically adjust the LiDAR scanning parameters, including beam point density and field of view configuration, thereby adapting to changing conditions without requiring complex manual intervention or system reconfiguration.
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus for reconfiguring a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) system based on detected changes in environmental conditions. In some embodiments, an illumination profile is generated to identify a portion of a field of view (FoV) to which enhanced electromagnetic radiation is to be applied by an emitter of the LiDAR system. A scan profile is generated corresponding to the illumination profile, and the scan profile is applied to an output device of the emitter to produce the selected illumination profile upon targets in the FoV. The scan profile is generated in response to an external sensor that indicates a change in operational environment for the LiDAR system, such as a geopositioning sensor that detects a change in elevation or direction of a vehicle in which the LiDAR system is mounted. An observer and plant model can be incorporated into a servo control system to direct the scanning patterns.