Multi-Mode Laser Transmitter for MIMO LiDAR

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional multi-channel transmitters for MIMO LiDAR systems are bulky, costly, and result in poor detection probability, precision, and long computing times, hindering miniaturization and cost reduction.

Innovation Solution

A multi-channel transmitter comprising a light source generating a continuous light wave with multiple modes, a pulse generator producing an intermediate light pulse with varying wavelengths and waveforms, and a mode splitter that generates multiple output light pulses, improving compactness and detection capabilities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple single-mode chaotic light sources are used to achieve low output similarity and excellent anti-jamming capability, then the anti-interference and anti-ambiguity capabilities are improved, but the device becomes bulky and costly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanti-jamming capabilityVSAvoiddevice bulkiness
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple light generation functions into a single multi-mode laser device. Instead of using multiple separate single-mode chaotic light sources, the invention uses one multi-mode laser that can generate multiple modes simultaneously, achieving the same multi-channel output functionality with reduced device complexity and bulkiness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The multi-mode laser serves multiple functions simultaneously - it generates multiple spatial modes that are then processed to create multiple output channels. This universal light source replaces multiple specialized single-mode sources, reducing the overall system complexity while maintaining the required anti-jamming capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple single-mode chaotic light sources are used to achieve low output similarity, then the anti-ambiguity capability is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveanti-ambiguity capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple light source functions into a single multi-mode laser device, reducing the total component count and manufacturing cost. The multi-mode laser inherently provides the necessary mode diversity for anti-ambiguity capability without requiring multiple separate chaotic light sources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention uses a single multi-mode laser to generate multiple modes that are then split and processed to create multiple output channels. This approach copies the functionality of multiple single-mode sources through a single source, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Reliability

If conventional multi-channel transmitter is used, then the system can operate, but the detection probability is poor and computing time is long

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection probabilityVSAvoidcomputing time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the fundamental parameters of the light source by using a multi-mode laser instead of single-mode chaotic sources. This parameter change enables the generation of multiple spatial modes with different characteristics, improving signal diversity and detection probability while reducing the computational burden through optimized signal processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS11476944B1Multi-channel transmitter
Publication Date: 2022.10.18 NATIONAL TSING HUA UNIVERSITY
  • US11476944B1 patent drawing
  • US11476944B1 patent drawing
  • US11476944B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A multi-channel transmitter includes a light source, a pulse generator and a mode splitter. The light source generates a continuous source light wave with multiple modes that are different from each other in terms of wavelength and waveform. The pulse generator generates, based on the continuous source light wave, an intermediate light pulse with multiple modes that are different from each other in terms of wavelength and waveform. The mode splitter has a plurality of output terminals, and generates, based on the intermediate light pulse and respectively at the output terminals thereof, a plurality of output light pulses that respectively correspond to the modes of the intermediate light pulse.