Lidar Simulation Apparatus Using Virtual 3D Scene Rendering

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current lidar light measurement systems face challenges in efficiently simulating defined ambient conditions and moving scenery for quality control and application development, particularly requiring large spatial setups and time-consuming reconfiguration for testing.

Innovation Solution

A simulation apparatus that generates time-delayed light signals using an electronic retardation unit, allowing for the creation of a simulated moving environment with adjustable time delays and scalable channel configurations, eliminating the need for physical reconfiguration and enabling realistic image representation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If physical measuring sections are used to test lidar systems at defined distances, then measurement accuracy is improved, but spatial requirements and setup complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedistance measurement accuracyVSAvoidmeasuring section space
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a virtual copy of the physical measurement environment using computer-generated 3D models and renders them in real-time. Instead of requiring physical objects at specific distances, the system generates synthetic images that simulate how the lidar would see actual objects, thereby eliminating the need for large physical measuring sections while maintaining measurement accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical measuring sections with an electronic/software-based system. A graphics processing unit (GPU) generates synthetic lidar images from 3D scene models, substituting the need for physical distance measurement infrastructure with computational image generation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If large measurement spaces are configured to accommodate multiple testing scenarios, then testing versatility is improved, but reconfiguration time and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting scenario flexibilityVSAvoidreconfiguration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a dynamic virtual environment where 3D scene models can be programmatically modified and regenerated in real-time. Different testing scenarios are achieved by changing software parameters and rendering new synthetic images, allowing rapid transition between test cases without physical reconfiguration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal virtual testing platform that can simulate any measurement scenario through software. The same hardware system (lidar + GPU) can generate synthetic images for diverse applications including autonomous driving, industrial inspection, and atmospheric sensing by loading different 3D scene models and parameters

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If physical objects are positioned at specific distances for testing, then realistic measurement conditions are achieved, but spatial requirements and setup complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement condition realismVSAvoidmeasuring section setup
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates accurate virtual copies of physical objects using detailed 3D models with realistic surface properties, materials, and geometries. These digital models are rendered to generate synthetic lidar images that faithfully reproduce how the lidar would detect actual objects, maintaining measurement condition realism without physical objects

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical system of positioning physical objects at precise distances with computational methods. The GPU calculates synthetic lidar returns based on virtual object positions and properties, eliminating the need for physical object placement while maintaining measurement realism

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

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

Facilitates cost-effective and time-efficient function and quality control by allowing for the simulation of various environments and scenarios, reducing spatial requirements and enabling rapid testing of lidar systems, especially in advanced driver assistance systems.

Implementation Method 1

The light signal emitted by the lidar light measurement system is detected by a photodetector

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS10955533B2Simulation apparatus for a lidar light measurement system
Publication Date: 2021.03.23 KONRAD GMBH
  • US10955533B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A simulation apparatus for a lidar light measurement system having a lidar light reception sensor (1), wherein a light transmitter (12) is present in the plane of the lidar light reception sensor (2).