Multi-Wavelength LIDAR Optical Scanning Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current LIDAR systems face challenges in independently controlling the illumination direction of light across multiple wavelength ranges, which is crucial for precise object detection and ranging in varying environmental conditions, especially in intelligent automobiles.
Innovation Solution
An optical scanning device that includes a light source emitting light in two wavelength ranges, a beam divider, and phase modulators with nano antennas, allowing independent control of the illumination direction of each wavelength range using driving units, and a LIDAR system that utilizes this device for object detection and ranging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single optical modulator is used for multiple wavelength ranges, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to independently control illumination direction for each wavelength range is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical modulation function into separate modulators for different wavelength ranges. Specifically, it uses a first optical modulator for a first wavelength range and a second optical modulator for a second wavelength range, allowing independent phase modulation and illumination direction control for each wavelength range without interference
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a beam divider as an intermediary component between the light source and the optical modulators. The beam divider separates light into different wavelength ranges and directs them to appropriate modulators, enabling independent control while maintaining system organization and avoiding direct coupling between wavelength channels
2Ease of operation
If mechanical scanning components are used to control illumination direction, then illumination direction control is achieved, but device size and mechanical complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical scanning components with phase modulation-based optical control. By using phase modulators to modulate the phase of light waves, the illumination direction is controlled through optical path differences rather than mechanical movement, eliminating moving parts and reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining precise direction control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent controls illumination direction by changing the phase parameter of light waves through electrical signals applied to the optical modulators. This parameter-based control method allows dynamic adjustment of illumination direction without mechanical movement, enabling faster response and more precise control compared to mechanical systems
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate optical paths are used for different wavelength ranges, then independent control is achieved, but device complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs optical modulators that can handle multiple wavelength ranges with a single device. Each modulator is capable of modulating light across different wavelength ranges, reducing the need for completely separate optical paths while maintaining independent control capability through wavelength-selective modulation
Solution Approach 2:
The beam divider serves as an intermediary that manages the separation and routing of different wavelength ranges. It directs specific wavelength ranges to appropriate modulators without requiring completely independent optical paths, thus simplifying the overall structure while enabling independent control through coordinated modulation of different wavelength channels
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
Enables precise control of illumination directions for improved object detection and ranging capabilities, enhancing safety features in intelligent automobiles by accurately detecting objects in different conditions without the need for mechanical movement of components, thus miniaturizing the system.
Implementation Method 1
The beam divider may include a dichroic mirror configured to transmit the first light received by the beam divider, and reflect the second light received by the beam divider
Implementation Method 2
a first optical modulator configured to receive the first light, and modulate a phase of the first light received by the first optical modulator to change a travelling direction of the first light received by the first optical modulator
Data Source
AI summary
An optical scanning device includes a light source configured to emit first light in a first wavelength range and second light in a second wavelength range, a beam divider configured to allow the first light to travel in a first direction, and receive the second light, and allow the second light to travel in a second direction different from the first direction, a first optical modulator configured to receive the first light, and modulate a phase of the first light received by the first optical modulator to change a travelling direction of the first light received by the first optical modulator, and a second optical modulator configured to receive the second light, and modulate a phase of the second light received by the second optical modulator to change a travelling direction of the second light received by the second optical modulator.