Multi-Fiber Scanner Torsional Actuation for LIDAR Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spatially resolved LIDAR systems are expensive, heavy, maintenance-intensive, and have limited curvature of light fibers, making them unsuitable for efficient distance measurement in applications like autonomous driving.
Innovation Solution
A fiber scanner with at least two fibrous elements arranged between a fixation and a deflection unit, where an actuator stimulates a torsional mode of movement to redirect light, allowing for precise scanning and reducing stress on individual fibers through distributed stress and improved beam angle accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional LIDAR systems use scanning mirrors for spatially resolved distance measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity, weight, and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical scanning mirror system with an all-fiber optical system. Instead of using a movable mirror to scan laser beams, the invention uses optical fibers with controlled curvature to redirect light. The fiber-based approach eliminates complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms while achieving the same scanning function through purely optical means, thereby reducing device complexity and maintenance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and configuration of optical fibers to achieve scanning functionality. By controlling the curvature, bending, and arrangement of optical fibers, the system redirects laser light to different angles without mechanical movement. This parameter-based control of light propagation through fiber geometry provides a simpler alternative to mechanical scanning systems.
2Device complexity
If optical fibers are used for scanning LIDAR measurements, then device complexity is reduced, but the curvature of the optical fiber is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple optical fibers arranged in a specific configuration rather than relying on a single fiber to achieve the full scanning range. By segmenting the light redirection function across multiple fibers with different curvature characteristics, the system overcomes the curvature limitations of individual fibers while maintaining the simplicity of the fiber-based structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces spatial arrangement and geometric configuration as additional dimensions for controlling light propagation. Instead of relying solely on the curvature of individual fibers, the system uses the three-dimensional arrangement of multiple fibers and their relative positions to achieve a broader scanning range, effectively compensating for individual fiber curvature limitations.
3Device complexity
If single fiber is used in fiber scanner, then device complexity is minimized, but stress on the fiber increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the light transmission function across multiple optical fibers, distributing the mechanical stress and optical load. Instead of all light passing through a single fiber that would experience high stress and potential failure, multiple fibers share the burden, thereby improving reliability and reducing the risk of fiber damage while maintaining structural simplicity.
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
The solution provides a robust, cost-effective, and long-lasting fiber scanner capable of precise distance measurement with improved beam angle accuracy, reducing external interference and increasing scanning robustness.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one degree of freedom of movement comprises a torsional mode of the at least two fibrous elements
Implementation Method 2
The deflection unit is configured to deflect light
Implementation Method 3
Exciting the torsional mode causes the at least two fibrous elements to twist around a central axis of the at least two fibrous elements. Furthermore, exciting the torsional mode also causes each fibrous element of the at least two fibrous elements to twist around the corresponding longitudinal axis
Implementation Method 4
By determining the time of flight of the laser light, the distance to the objects can be determined
Implementation Method 5
The device could comprise a laser light source configured to emit the laser light
Implementation Method 6
The device could have a detector configured to detect reflected laser light
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device (100) comprising at least two fiber-shaped elements (101-103), which are arranged between a fastening means (141) and a deflecting unit (142). The deflecting unit (142) is designed to deflect light (146). The device (100) also comprises an actuator, which is designed to induce at least one degree of freedom of the motion of the at least two fiber-shaped elements (101-103).