LiDAR Spatial Light Modulator for Adaptive Near Far Field Illumination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current LiDAR sensors require multiple sensors for near-field and far-field detection, leading to increased complexity and cost, as they need to manage different light intensities and resolutions for various ranges, which complicates autonomous vehicle operations.
Innovation Solution
A non-scanning LiDAR sensor with a spatial light modulator that adjusts light intensity and direction dynamically based on detected objects, allowing a single sensor to handle both near and far-field detection by identifying areas of interest and adjusting illumination accordingly, reducing the need for multiple sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple LiDAR sensors are used for near-field and far-field detection, then detection coverage and accuracy are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single LiDAR sensor that can dynamically adapt its illumination characteristics to perform both near-field and far-field detection functions. The spatial light modulator enables the same sensor to adjust its field of view and light distribution patterns, making it universally capable of handling multiple detection ranges that previously required separate sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms including a spatial light modulator that can change light intensity distribution and field of view in real-time. This allows the sensor to transition between different detection modes (near-field vs. far-field) dynamically, rather than requiring fixed configurations for each range.
2Illumination intensity
If higher intensity light source is used for long-range detection, then illumination capability at long range is improved, but risk of overloading the light detector at short range increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using a spatial light modulator to create non-uniform light intensity distribution across the field of view. Different regions of the illuminated area receive different light intensities appropriate for their distance - higher intensity for far-field regions and lower intensity for near-field regions - thereby avoiding detector overload while maintaining long-range illumination capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the illumination parameters (intensity distribution, field of view angle) dynamically based on detection needs. The spatial light modulator adjusts these parameters to match the required detection range, transforming the illumination characteristics from fixed to variable, which prevents detector overload at short range while ensuring sufficient intensity for long range.
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 approach enables efficient and adaptive 3D environmental mapping, enhancing the capability of autonomous vehicles to operate effectively in various environments with reduced hardware requirements, improving detection accuracy and reducing the complexity of sensor systems.
Implementation Method 1
a spatial light modulator positioned to direct light from the light emitter into a field of illumination
Implementation Method 2
a light detector having a field of view overlapping the field of illumination
Implementation Method 3
The time of flight of reflected photons detected by the photodetector is used to determine the distance of the object that reflected the light
Data Source
AI summary
A LiDAR sensor includes a light emitter, a spatial light modulator positioned to direct light from the light emitter into a field of illumination, and a light detector having a field of view overlapping the field of illumination. The LiDAR sensor includes a controller programmed to identify an area of interest based on light detected by the light detector in a previous subframe and adjust the spatial light modulator to direct light into the field of illumination at an intensity that is greater at the area of interest than at an adjacent area of the field of view.