Multi-Plane LiDAR Mirror Scanning for Compact Vehicle Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LiDAR systems for vehicles are often large and power-intensive, making them bulky and inefficient for compact vehicle integration.
Innovation Solution
A compact and energy-efficient LiDAR system utilizing a multi-plane mirror to control the exit angle of light energy, allowing for a smaller form factor and reduced power consumption, with embodiments including a transceiver module, polygon structure, and moveable mirrors to optimize field of view and scanning resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional LiDAR systems are used for vehicle integration, then range finding and object detection capabilities are achieved, but the system size and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the scanning function into two independent mirror assemblies: a first mirror assembly for vertical scanning and a second mirror assembly for horizontal scanning. This segmentation allows each mirror to be smaller and less complex, reducing overall system volume while maintaining full 3D scanning capability for reliable object detection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single-plane scanning mechanism to a multi-dimensional scanning approach using two orthogonal mirror assemblies. The first mirror scans in the vertical dimension while the second mirror scans in the horizontal dimension, enabling comprehensive spatial coverage with more compact individual components
2Reliability
If traditional LiDAR systems are used for vehicle integration, then object detection capabilities are maintained, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
By dividing the scanning function between two independent mirror assemblies, each mirror can operate at lower power levels. The segmentation allows for optimized drive mechanisms that consume less energy while collectively achieving the same object detection reliability as traditional single-assembly systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic oscillation of the mirrors in controlled patterns - the first mirror oscillates vertically while the second mirror oscillates horizontally. This periodic action enables efficient scanning coverage with minimal energy expenditure, as the mirrors return to home positions and repeat scanning patterns rather than requiring continuous high-power operation
3Volume of moving object
If multi-plane mirrors are used to reduce system size, then system compactness is improved, but scanning resolution may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent compensates for the smaller size of segmented mirrors by using two mirror assemblies working in coordination. The vertical scanning mirror and horizontal scanning mirror together provide fine angular resolution in both dimensions, maintaining measurement precision despite the reduced individual mirror sizes that enable system compactness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic control of the two mirror assemblies with independently controllable oscillation frequencies and amplitudes. This dynamic capability allows the system to optimize scanning resolution by adjusting the speed and range of each mirror's movement, ensuring high measurement precision even with compact mirror dimensions
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 system achieves improved scanning resolution and reduced energy usage, enabling more efficient and compact LiDAR systems for vehicle integration while maintaining effective range finding and object detection capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a moveable mirror positioned to redirect light energy passing between the transceiver module and the polygon structure
Implementation Method 2
a polygon structure that defines a lateral angle of the field of view of the LiDAR system
Implementation Method 3
a transceiver module operative to transmit and receive light energy
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments discussed herein refer to a relatively compact and energy efficient LiDAR system that uses a multi-plane mirror in its scanning system.