Multi-LIDAR Vehicle Layout for 360° Coverage and Detection Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle systems face challenges in effectively scanning environments for objects, particularly due to limitations in LIDAR positioning and configuration, which can result in reduced angular resolution and detection range, especially for objects near the vehicle or at long distances.
Innovation Solution
The use of multiple LIDARs positioned strategically around a vehicle, including a first LIDAR configured to rotate and provide a 360-degree field of view with high refresh rate, a second LIDAR with higher resolution for long-range detection, and a third LIDAR for close-range object detection, allows for comprehensive environmental scanning and improved object identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single LIDAR is positioned at the top side of the vehicle to scan the environment around the vehicle, then the system can achieve 360-degree coverage, but the angular resolution and detection precision are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the environmental scanning function into multiple LIDAR devices positioned at different locations on the vehicle (front, rear, sides, and top). Each LIDAR covers a specific angular sector, and their combined data creates a complete 360-degree view with high angular resolution in all directions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-top LIDAR configuration to a multi-dimensional array of LIDARs distributed across the vehicle's surface. This spatial distribution across multiple dimensions enables simultaneous wide coverage and high angular resolution by capturing environmental data from multiple geometric perspectives.
2Measurement precision
If a LIDAR is positioned at the front side of the vehicle to scan close-range objects, then close-range detection capability is improved, but the ability to scan the entire environment around the vehicle is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the environmental monitoring task among multiple LIDARs positioned at different vehicle locations. Front LIDARs handle close-range detection, rear LIDARs cover the back environment, side LIDARs monitor lateral zones, and top LIDARs provide overhead coverage, collectively achieving comprehensive 360-degree surveillance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the scanning functions of multiple LIDARs positioned at different vehicle locations into a unified environmental perception system. By combining the point cloud data from front, rear, side, and top LIDARs, the system achieves both close-range detection precision and complete environmental coverage.
3Measurement precision
If multiple LIDARs are positioned strategically around the vehicle, then detection precision and coverage are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multiple LIDAR devices that each perform the same basic function of scanning and generating point cloud data. This universality simplifies the system architecture compared to using different types of sensors, as all LIDARs can be processed through a common data fusion pipeline despite their different positions and coverage areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses identical or similar LIDAR devices replicated at multiple positions around the vehicle. This copying approach simplifies the system by using standardized components rather than custom-designed sensors for each position, reducing complexity in sensor selection, calibration, and data processing while maintaining high detection precision through spatial distribution.
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 multi-LIDAR system enhances the vehicle's ability to detect and identify objects across various ranges, improving safety and autonomous operation by providing detailed and accurate environmental mapping.
Implementation Method 1
Individual points in the point cloud can be determined by transmitting a laser pulse and detecting a returning pulse, if any, reflected from an object in the environment
Implementation Method 2
determining the distance to the object according to the time delay between the transmitted pulse and the reception of the reflected pulse
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A vehicle is provided that includes one or more wheels positioned at a bottom side of the vehicle. The vehicle also includes a first light detection and ranging device (LIDAR) positioned at a top side of the vehicle opposite to the bottom side. The first LIDAR is configured to scan an environment around the vehicle based on rotation of the first LIDAR about an axis. The first LIDAR has a first resolution. The vehicle also includes a second LIDAR configured to scan a field-of-view of the environment that extends away from the vehicle along a viewing direction of the second LIDAR. The second LIDAR has a second resolution. The vehicle also includes a controller configured to operate the vehicle based on the scans of the environment by the first LIDAR and the second LIDAR.