Optical Sensor Tester Using Controlled Delay and Pulse Modification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing optical sensors, such as LiDAR sensors, are not accurate and efficient, failing to verify correct functioning in a highly precise manner.
Innovation Solution
A tester system comprising an optical input, modification unit, and output that optically modifies and delays optical signals in a controlled number of loops, using optical components like polarizing elements and delay lines, to form a modified and delayed signal for accurate and efficient testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing testing methods are used for optical sensors, then the testing process is simple, but the measurement precision and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic signal processing with an all-optical system. The optical circulator uses optical path differences and polarization effects rather than electronic components to achieve signal routing and processing. This substitution of optical mechanisms for electronic ones enables high-precision measurement while maintaining system integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an optical circulator as an intermediary component that mediates between the optical sensor and the detection system. This circulator enables precise control of optical signal paths and facilitates accurate measurement by acting as a specialized intermediary device that handles optical signal routing and processing.
2Productivity
If electronic sampling and recreation of optical signals is used, then the system design is simpler, but the measurement accuracy and efficiency are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates electronic sampling and recreation by implementing a purely optical signal processing system. Optical components such as the optical circulator, delay lines, and modulators directly manipulate optical signals without conversion to electronic domains, thereby maintaining signal integrity and improving testing efficiency while managing optical system complexity through integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous optical signal processing without interruption for electronic conversion. The optical circulator enables continuous circulation and processing of optical signals through the system, maintaining uninterrupted optical paths and eliminating the discontinuities introduced by electronic sampling and recreation processes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If variable delay and return pulse energy adjustment are implemented, then the testing versatility is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adjustability in the optical modification unit through variable optical delay lines and adjustable attenuators. These components enable real-time modification of optical signal parameters such as delay time and pulse energy, providing testing versatility while managing complexity through integrated optical control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical modification unit is designed with multi-functional capabilities, where a single integrated unit performs multiple functions including variable delay, pulse energy adjustment, and signal routing. This universal design approach enables versatile testing capabilities while minimizing overall system complexity by consolidating functions into one modular unit.
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 and efficient testing of optical sensors by reducing inefficiencies and complexity, allowing for variable delay and return pulse energy adjustment, particularly suitable for autonomous vehicles and ADAS systems.
Implementation Method 1
the optical path selector switch comprises or is an optical polarizing element and/or an optical polarizing beam splitter
Data Source
AI summary
A tester for testing an optical sensor is provided. Said tester comprises an optical input configured to receive an optical signal from the optical sensor, an optical modification unit configured to optically modify and/or delay the optical signal to form a modified and/or delayed optical signal, and an optical output configured to transmit the modified and/or delayed optical signal to the optical sensor. In this context, the optical signal is modified and/or delayed according to a certain number of times to form the modified and/or delayed optical signal.