Lidar Sensor Testing Using Wavelength-Based Optical Path Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lidar sensor testing methods struggle to effectively separate the optical paths for emitted and received light, leading to potential misidentification of the test apparatus as an object in the surroundings.
Innovation Solution
A device and method that utilize a dichroic mirror to separate the optical paths by differing wavelengths, allowing the lidar sensor to emit first light and receive second light on distinct paths, thereby simulating real-world scenarios without interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the same optical path is used for emitting and receiving light, then the testing device structure is simplified, but the lidar sensor may misidentify the test apparatus as an object in the surroundings
Solution Approach 1:
The optical path is divided into separate transmitting and receiving paths. The transmitting device emits light through a first optical path, while the receiving device collects light through a second optical path. This segmentation prevents the lidar sensor from detecting the test apparatus as a surrounding object while maintaining a compact structure.
Solution Approach 2:
An optical element acts as an intermediary to separate the transmitting and receiving optical paths. This optical element allows the system to distinguish between emitted and received light paths, preventing misidentification while enabling over-the-air testing.
2Reliability
If separate optical paths are used for emitting and receiving light, then the lidar sensor can accurately detect surroundings during testing, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The transmitting device and receiving device are integrated into a single testing apparatus that can be positioned over the lidar sensor. Both optical paths share common components and space, merging the structure while maintaining separate light paths for accurate detection during over-the-air testing.
3Productivity
If traditional testing methods are used, then physical test drives are required, but time and resources are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical test drives with an optical testing system. Instead of driving vehicles through various scenarios, the testing apparatus uses optical paths to simulate and test lidar sensor performance in different situations, significantly reducing testing time and resource consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing system creates virtual representations of surrounding environments and objects using optical paths. By projecting and detecting light patterns that simulate real-world scenarios, the system copies complex testing conditions without requiring actual physical travel or deployment.
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
Enables cost-effective and compact over-the-air testing of lidar sensors, allowing for simulation of various traffic situations and reducing the need for physical test drives, while ensuring accurate detection of surroundings.
Implementation Method 1
an optical element that is configured to separate the first optical path from the second optical path
Data Source
AI summary
A device for testing a lidar sensor. The lidar sensor being configured to emit first light having a first wavelength. The device comprising a trigger detector that is configured to receive the first light on a first optical path. The trigger detector being configured to generate a trigger signal as a function of the received first light. At least one transmitting device is configured to emit second light having a second wavelength, as a function of the trigger signal. The second light being receivable on a second optical path by the lidar sensor. An optical element is configured to separate the first optical path from the second optical path.