Rotating Optical Waveguide Lidar Component Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional LIDAR systems face challenges in achieving adequate image resolution and cost-effectiveness due to the need for large, expensive two-dimensional detector arrays and limitations in laser power and detector size, particularly in flash and micro scanner systems.
Innovation Solution
The use of a component assembly with optical waveguides made of light-conducting fibers that rotate with the rotor, allowing for the coupling and decoupling of laser beams onto smaller detectors, reducing the size and cost of the detector system, and enabling scalable laser sources and detectors for varying angular ranges and image resolutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a two-dimensional detector array with large number of pixels is used to achieve adequate image resolution in flash LIDAR systems, then the image resolution is improved, but the cost and size of the detector system increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection task into two sequential stages: a first detector captures initial reflected light signals, and a second detector captures additional signals. This segmentation allows the use of smaller, more cost-effective detectors instead of requiring a large two-dimensional array, while maintaining adequate image resolution through temporal and spatial separation of detection events.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a temporal dimension to the detection process by using two detectors at different time points. The first detector operates at an earlier time point and the second detector operates at a later time point, transforming the spatial detection problem into a combination of spatial and temporal detection, thereby reducing the required detector size.
2Length of stationary object
If a large receiver lens aperture of >25 mm is used to achieve large detection range and comply with eye safety limits, then the detection range is improved, but the size and cost of the overall system increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical detection path into multiple stages with intermediate focusing. The receiver lens focuses reflected light onto the first detector, and additional light paths are directed to the second detector. This segmentation allows the use of a smaller receiver lens aperture while maintaining adequate detection range through multi-stage light collection and processing.
3Measurement precision
If multiple semiconductor lasers are used in a macro scanner to achieve vertical image resolution of 0.15° to 0.5°, then the image resolution is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase due to requiring one hundred transmitting beams
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of multiple lasers and detectors into a simplified two-detector system. Instead of using one hundred separate transmitting beams from multiple semiconductor lasers, the invention merges the detection capability into two detectors that capture light signals at different time points, significantly reducing device complexity while maintaining vertical image resolution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent resolves the complexity issue by introducing temporal separation into the detection process. Rather than using multiple spatially separated laser beams, the invention uses two detectors operating at different time points, transforming the problem from a spatial multiplexing challenge to a temporal sequencing solution, thereby reducing device complexity.
4Speed
If a MEMS mirror with small surface area is used in micro scanners to achieve mechanical deflection, then the scanning speed is improved, but the laser beam diameter is restricted to small sizes, limiting transmit power and detection range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the light detection function into two separate detectors operating at different time points. This allows the use of a small MEMS mirror for fast scanning while the segmented detection approach compensates for the limited beam diameter by capturing light signals sequentially, thereby maintaining detection range despite reduced transmit power capability.
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 allows for compact, cost-effective LIDAR systems with improved image resolution and increased laser power, reduced filter size and cost, and enhanced disturbance light suppression, enabling longer detection ranges with simplified temperature control and reduced complexity.
Implementation Method 1
at least two light-conducting fibers... The first optical waveguide is situated within the rotor such that it is able to rotate along with the rotor
Data Source
AI summary
A component assembly for a LIDAR sensor including a stator; a rotor; a detector system having at least one first detector; and a first optical waveguide including an input and an output and light-conducting fibers, the first optical waveguide being situated inside the rotor and disposed so as to be able to rotate along with the rotor, and the first optical waveguide is developed to receive a first light beam coming from a surrounding area via the input at the light-conducting fibers and to guide them via the light-conducting fibers out of the output in the direction of the first detector.