Multi-Planar Optical Beam Redirection for Compact LIDAR Lens Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional LIDAR systems face space constraints due to the dimensions of linear co-planar optical beam patterns exceeding the dimensions of the output lens, preventing simultaneous passage of optical beams without obstruction.
Innovation Solution
Transforming a linear co-planar optical beam pattern into a multi-planar beam pattern by redirecting optical beams using optical elements, allowing them to propagate in different directions and planes, thereby reducing the spatial requirements and enabling simultaneous passage through a smaller lens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a linear co-planar optical beam pattern is used, then the beam pattern is simple to generate, but the spatial dimensions exceed the lens size preventing simultaneous beam passage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the optical beam pattern from a two-dimensional co-planar arrangement to a three-dimensional multi-planar configuration. By redirecting subsets of beams onto different planes using optical elements, the system reduces the projected area required while maintaining all beam pathways, allowing simultaneous passage through a smaller lens aperture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the optical beam pattern into multiple subsets, where each subset is assigned to a different plane. This segmentation allows the beams to be spatially separated in the third dimension, reducing the overall footprint and enabling a smaller lens to accommodate all beams simultaneously without obstruction.
2Area of stationary object
If optical beams are redirected to different planes, then the spatial requirements are reduced, but the optical assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs optical elements that serve multiple functions: they redirect beams to appropriate planes, maintain beam collimation, and enable simultaneous passage through the lens. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby limiting the increase in overall system complexity despite the three-dimensional beam configuration.
3Volume of stationary object
If a multi-planar beam pattern is generated, then the optical assembly becomes more compact, but the beam redirection requires additional optical elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple beam redirection functions into shared optical elements that handle multiple subsets of beams. By merging redirection tasks into common components rather than assigning dedicated elements to each beam subset, the system achieves compact volume while minimizing the total number of optical elements required.
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 transformation results in a more compact optical assembly with reduced lens dimensions, enabling efficient beam transmission and allowing for asymmetric beam spacing, which enhances the spatial awareness and functionality of LIDAR systems.
Implementation Method 1
redirecting (e.g., sending, scattering, forwarding, relaying), by the optical assembly, a first set of the plurality of optical beams to propagate in the first direction along a second plane
Implementation Method 2
redirecting, by the optical assembly, a second set of the plurality of optical beams to propagate in a second direction along the first plane
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method including, receiving a plurality of optical beams in a first direction along a first plane in a first beam pattern towards an optical element based on a trajectory that causes at least a portion of the plurality of optical beams to not contact a surface of the optical lens. The system and method includes transmitting a first set of the plurality of optical beams in the first direction along a second plane. The system and method includes transmitting a second set of the plurality of optical beams in the first direction along the first plane. The system and method includes generating a second beam pattern by transmitting the first set and the second set of the plurality of optical beams through an optical element, wherein the second beam pattern adjusts the trajectory to cause the portion to contact the surface of the optical lens.