Optical Scanning Module Dual Path Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical scanning modules and devices struggle to balance angular resolution and measurement range, often requiring large and expensive systems to achieve both long-range high-resolution scanning and short-range wide-field scanning simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
The optical scanning module comprises a scanning mirror that directs light signals through different optical paths to achieve high angular resolution at long distances and low angular resolution with a wide field at short distances, using two telescope objectives and static mirrors to split and remap the Field of View optically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single optical path is used for scanning, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot achieve both long-range high-resolution scanning and short-range wide-field scanning simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The optical path is divided into two separate paths: a first optical path for long-range high-resolution scanning and a second optical path for short-range wide-field scanning. Each path has its own dedicated optical components, allowing independent optimization of scanning parameters for different ranges without interfering with each other.
Solution Approach 2:
The scanning device uses a single light source that serves both optical paths, and the controller coordinates both paths to achieve multi-functional scanning capabilities. The system can switch between or combine long-range and short-range scanning modes, providing universal scanning adaptability across different operational requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate optical paths are used for different scanning ranges, then both long-range and short-range scanning capabilities are achieved, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The optical components of the two paths are arranged in a nested or integrated configuration where possible. The first telescope objective and second telescope objective are positioned to share common mounting structures and spatial arrangements, allowing one optical path to be partially embedded within or adjacent to the other, thereby reducing the overall device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The two optical paths are arranged in different spatial dimensions or orientations. By utilizing vertical stacking or angular separation of the optical paths, the design reduces the horizontal footprint of the device while maintaining both scanning capabilities, effectively transitioning from a two-dimensional layout to a three-dimensional compact arrangement.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate optical paths are used for different scanning ranges, then both long-range and short-range scanning are enabled, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller unit serves both optical paths simultaneously, coordinating the scanning operations of the first and second telescope objectives. This shared control architecture reduces the need for separate control systems, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining dual scanning capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a single light source that operates at different parameters or configurations to serve both optical paths. By adjusting the light source characteristics or beam splitting ratios, the system achieves cost-effective multi-range scanning without requiring multiple independent light sources, thereby reducing overall manufacturing expenses.
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
This solution enables compact and cost-effective optical scanning devices that can efficiently scan at long distances with high angular resolution and at short distances with low angular resolution and wide fields, suitable for applications in autonomous vehicles and other fields.
Implementation Method 1
a scanning mirror, wherein the scanning mirror is arranged to direct a first light signal coming from a single light source to a first telescope objective via a first optical path
Data Source
AI summary
According to an example aspect of the present invention, there is provided an optical scanning module, comprising a scanning mirror, wherein the scanning mirror is arranged to direct a first light signal coming from a single light source to a first telescope objective via a first optical path, and at least one second light signal coming from the single light source to at least one second optical path, to scan at different distances with different angular resolutions, wherein the first optical path is different than the second optical path, and the optical scanning module is arranged to receive a reflected version of the first light signal via the first telescope objective and the first optical path, and a reflected version of the at least one second light signal via the at least one second optical path.