LiDAR Window Blockage Detection via Scattered Light Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
LiDAR systems face challenges in detecting window blockages, which can lead to incorrect vehicle perception and potentially serious safety consequences, as existing methods lack real-time and reliable detection capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for detecting window blockages in LiDAR systems using a laser source to generate beams of light, which are transmitted through a window, and a window blockage detector to determine the blockage state based on scattered and return light pulses, sending notifications to the vehicle perception and planning system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If LiDAR system operates without window blockage detection, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability of perception system deteriorates due to inability to detect blocked windows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the window blockage detection function with the existing LiDAR optical path by using the same window and light detector. The window blockage detector analyzes scattered light from the window surface, merging the detection function into the existing system structure rather than adding a completely separate detection mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces scattered light as an intermediary signal to detect window blockage. By analyzing the scattered light reflected from the window surface, the system can indirectly detect blockage conditions without requiring direct observation of the window itself or adding complex mechanical detection mechanisms.
2Reliability
If window blockage detection is implemented, then reliability of perception system is improved, but measurement precision requirements increase due to need to distinguish between different light conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by analyzing the specific characteristics of scattered light from the window surface. By examining the intensity and temporal properties of light scattered from the window, the system can distinguish between blocked and unblocked conditions based on the local optical properties of the window surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The window blockage detector provides feedback signals to the LiDAR control system about the window blockage state. This feedback mechanism allows the system to adjust its operation based on real-time detection of window conditions, improving reliability while managing measurement precision requirements through adaptive control.
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 real-time detection of window blockages, enhancing the reliability and safety of vehicle perception systems by preventing incorrect decision-making due to blocked windows.
Implementation Method 1
generating one or more beams of light using a laser source within the LiDAR system
Implementation Method 2
receiving both scattered light and a return light pulse
Implementation Method 3
transmitting, using the optical component, the beam of light through a window
Implementation Method 4
a light detector detects the return light pulse
Data Source
AI summary
A Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) scanning system, having a window blockage detector, aids in delivering reliable point cloud data associated with surroundings during instances of window blockage. A laser source within the system may generate one or more beams of light transmitted through a window, scanning the surroundings for external objects. The window blockage detector couples to receive scattered light from the window, as well as returning light from an object in the path of one or more light beams. From the scattered and returning light pulses, the window blockage detector having a thresholding method determines a window state relative to a select one of the following states including, unblocked, blocked, and null; wherein the null state exists when the beam of light intersects an empty sky or a highly absorbent object. Thereby, the LiDAR system provide a more accurate picture of a vehicles surrounding.