Polygon Scanner Glass Mirrors for Low-Scattering LIDAR
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional LIDAR systems for autonomous vehicles face challenges in achieving high reflectivity, low scattering, and precise beam shape due to rough mirror surfaces, which can introduce noise and reduce the reliability of range and velocity measurements.
Innovation Solution
The use of a polygon scanner with polished glass mirrors instead of machined metal facets, providing smoother, more reflective surfaces that reduce scattering and improve beam quality, while also reducing weight and inertia, allowing for more flexible and scalable manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If machined metal facets are used in the polygon scanner, then the structural strength is improved, but the mirror surface roughness increases causing scattering and noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite construction where glass mirrors are mounted in a metal polygon scanner frame. The glass material provides smooth, non-scattering reflective surfaces while the metal frame provides structural strength. This composite approach resolves the contradiction between structural strength and measurement reliability by combining materials that excel in different properties.
2Reliability
If glass mirrors are used in the polygon scanner, then the scattering is reduced and reflectivity is improved, but the weight is decreased which may affect structural integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite structure where glass mirrors are mounted in a metal polygon scanner frame. The glass provides the smooth reflective surface needed for reliable measurements, while the metal frame provides the structural strength to support the assembly. This resolves the contradiction by distributing functional requirements across different materials.
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional machining processes are used for metal facets, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the surface roughness causes beam shape distortion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from machined metal to polished glass mirrors. Glass can be polished to much smoother surfaces than metal can be machined, achieving the necessary surface quality for precise beam shaping. This parameter change resolves the contradiction between manufacturing simplicity and beam shape precision.
4Stability of the object's composition
If metal facets are used in the polygon scanner, then the inertia is higher providing stability, but the scattering increases reducing detection accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite design where glass mirrors are mounted in a metal polygon scanner frame. The glass mirrors provide the smooth surfaces needed for precise measurements by reducing scattering, while the metal frame maintains the scanner's stability and inertia. This composite approach resolves the contradiction between stability and measurement precision.
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 configuration enhances the accuracy and reliability of range and velocity measurements by minimizing surface-induced noise and allowing for improved optical performance, leading to better detection capabilities and reduced interference, thus enabling more effective autonomous vehicle control.
Implementation Method 1
The polygon scanner includes a frame and a plurality of mirrors coupled to the frame, the polygon scanner configured to reflect the first beam to output a second beam
Data Source
AI summary
A light detection and ranging (LIDAR) system includes a laser source and a polygon scanner. The laser source is configured to generate a first beam. The polygon scanner includes a frame and a plurality of mirrors coupled to the frame, each mirror comprising a glass material.