Laser Beam Tester Using an Optical Receiver for Scan Timing and Location

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems fail to accurately and efficiently determine laser beam timing and location during repetitive scans, which is crucial for verifying the correct functioning of applications like autonomous driving using lidar sensors.

Innovation Solution

A laser beam tester comprising an optical receiver and a processor that determines scan timing and associates a time domain with laser beam timing, allowing for precise power distribution and location analysis across scan frames.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If existing systems are used for laser beam detection, then basic detection function is provided, but laser beam timing and location determination accuracy is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelaser beam timing and location determination accuracyVSAvoidverification reliability of lidar applications
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an optical receiver as an intermediary component between the laser beam emitting device and the measurement system. The optical receiver captures the laser beam and converts it into detectable signals, enabling precise timing and location determination. This intermediary mechanism bridges the gap between basic detection and high-precision measurement requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement systems with an optical-based detection system. By using an optical receiver to detect laser beam characteristics and a processor to analyze timing and location data, the system achieves higher precision without mechanical components, thereby improving both measurement accuracy and verification reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If basic detection methods are used, then system complexity is low, but timing and location determination efficiency is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetiming and location determination efficiencyVSAvoidtester system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the detection system into distinct functional modules: an optical receiver for capturing laser beams, a processor for analyzing timing and location data, and associated components. This segmentation allows each module to perform its specific function efficiently, improving overall determination efficiency while keeping individual component complexity manageable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The processor automatically processes the received optical signals to determine timing and location parameters without requiring external intervention for each measurement. This self-service capability enables continuous, efficient operation of the tester system, significantly improving productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Measurement precision

If no dedicated laser beam tester is used, then device complexity is low, but measurement precision for repetitive scans is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverepetitive scan timing and location precisionVSAvoidlaser beam testing system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The laser beam tester is designed as a universal system that can handle various laser beam scanning patterns and repetition rates. The optical receiver and processor work together to provide multi-functional capabilities for timing and location determination across different scan configurations, achieving high precision measurements without requiring separate specialized equipment for each scan type.

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

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 accurate and efficient determination of laser beam timing and location, facilitating effective verification of lidar applications by providing power distribution, frame rate, and repetition rate analysis.

Implementation Method 1

an optical receiver (11) configured to receive the at least one laser beam (32, 42)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentEP4624982A1Laser beam tester for laser beam timing and location determination, corresponding system and method
Publication Date: 2025.10.01 ROHDE & SCHWARZ GMBH & CO KG
  • EP4624982A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4624982A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4624982A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A laser beam tester for laser beam timing and location determination with respect to a repetitive scan of at least one laser beam in a scan area based on at least one scan frame is provided. Said laser beam tester comprises an optical receiver configured to receive the at least one laser beam in an observation area, and a processor being in communication with the optical receiver. The processor is configured to determine the corresponding scan timing of the at least one laser beam. Furthermore, the processor is configured to associate the corresponding time domain of the laser beam tester with the scan timing of the at least one laser beam.