Magnetically Actuated Scanning Mirror for LIDAR
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current scanning mirror systems in LIDAR technology face challenges in efficiently scanning and measuring distances with high angular resolution and range, particularly in automotive applications, due to limitations in field of view, angular resolution, and range aliasing.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of magnetically actuated scanning mirror assemblies with non-resonant drive signals and adjustable angular extents, allowing for synchronized two-dimensional scanning and adaptive control of the field of view, pulse repetition rate, and laser power to enhance angular resolution and measurement range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional scanning mirror systems are used, then the system structure is simple, but the angular resolution and measurement range are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning mirror system is divided into multiple independent modules: a first scanning mirror for fast scanning, a second scanning mirror for slow scanning, and a magnetic actuator for precise angular control. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized for specific functions, achieving high angular resolution through coordinated operation while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic angular extent adjustment where the magnetic actuator continuously varies the angular position of the scanning mirrors based on control signals. This dynamic control enables adaptive optimization of the field of view and angular resolution during operation, allowing the system to achieve high measurement precision by adjusting mirror angles in real-time according to scanning requirements
2Adaptability or versatility
If the field of view is increased, then the scanning range is improved, but the angular resolution decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning function is segmented into two independent mirror systems: the first scanning mirror handles fast angular deflection for broad field coverage, while the second scanning mirror handles slow angular adjustment for precise positioning. This segmentation allows the system to achieve both wide field of view and high angular resolution simultaneously by coordinating the different scanning speeds and ranges of each mirror
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from single-axis scanning to two-axis scanning by introducing a second scanning mirror that operates in a different angular dimension. This dimensional expansion allows independent control of horizontal and vertical scanning ranges, enabling the system to maintain high angular resolution in one dimension while expanding the overall field of view through coordinated operation of both mirrors
3Speed
If resonant drive signals are used, then the scanning speed is improved, but the measurement range becomes ambiguous due to aliasing
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic drive signals to actuate the magnetic actuator and control the scanning mirrors. By carefully selecting the period and frequency of these drive signals, the system achieves regular, predictable scanning motion that avoids aliasing effects. The periodic action maintains high scanning speed while ensuring unambiguous phase measurements through synchronized detection of transmitted and reflected light pulses
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the phase of the reflected light pulse is compared with the transmitted pulse, and the drive signals to the magnetic actuator are adjusted based on this phase difference information. This feedback control ensures that the scanning speed remains within the unambiguous measurement range while maintaining high scanning performance through real-time adjustment of actuator drive parameters
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 solution enables reliable and efficient scanning with improved angular resolution and increased non-ambiguous range, reducing ambient light noise and enhancing the accuracy of distance measurements in LIDAR systems.
Implementation Method 1
magnetically actuated scanning mirror assemblies with non-resonant drive signals
Data Source
AI summary
A light detection and ranging system includes synchronously scanning transmit and receive mirrors that scan a pulsed fanned laser beam in two dimensions. Imaging optics image a receive aperture onto an arrayed receiver that includes a plurality of light sensitive devices. Scanning mirror assemblies include stationary coils and MEMS devices with attached mirrors and permanent magnets.