Segmented Semiconductor Laser for High Pulse Repetition Rate Lidar
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transmitter units, particularly lidar systems, face challenges in achieving precise control over laser radiation emission and high pulse repetition rates while maintaining ocular safety and signal-to-noise ratio, especially when using solid-state lasers.
Innovation Solution
A transmitter unit incorporating a semiconductor laser with distinct sections for charge carrier storage and rapid switching, utilizing different supply variables to control the emission of high-energy, high-power laser pulses, enabling precise timing and higher pulse repetition rates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If solid-state lasers are used in lidar systems, then laser radiation can be emitted, but precise control over emission timing and high pulse repetition rates cannot be achieved simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The semiconductor laser is divided into two distinct sections: a first section (amplifier section) for storing charge carriers and a second section (switching section) for rapid switching. This segmentation allows independent control of each section, enabling precise timing control through the switching section while achieving high pulse repetition rates through coordinated operation of both sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control by applying different supply variables (first supply variable to the first section, second supply variable to the second section) that can be independently adjusted in magnitude and timing. This dynamic control mechanism enables precise adjustment of emission timing while maintaining high pulse repetition rates through rapid switching in the second section.
2Power
If higher pulse powers are emitted, then detection range is improved, but ocular safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs Q-switching to generate periodic laser pulses with high peak power. By rapidly switching the second section and controlling charge carrier release in the first section, the system produces short, high-power pulses that improve detection range while the periodic nature and precise timing control allow for safe operational parameters that maintain ocular safety.
3Ease of operation
If distinct sections with different supply variables are implemented, then selective control of charge carrier storage and switching is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The emitter is segmented into two functional sections that can be controlled independently through separate supply variables. This segmentation provides selective control capability - the first supply variable manages charge carrier storage in the amplifier section while the second supply variable controls rapid switching in the switching section, enabling precise operational control despite the increased structural complexity.
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
The semiconductor laser setup allows for precise control of laser radiation emission, achieving high-energy, high-power short pulses with improved ocular safety and increased detection range, enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio and system resolution of lidar sensors.
Implementation Method 1
at least one semiconductor laser, which has at least one first emitter possessing a first section and a second section
Implementation Method 2
A supply variable may be an electric charge. A supply variable may be, for example, a current or a voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A transmitter unit for emitting radiation into the surrounding area, including at least one semiconductor laser, which has at least one first emitter possessing a first section and a second section; and at least one control unit for controlling the semiconductor laser. The control unit is configured to apply a first supply variable to the first section of the at least one emitter, and to apply a second supply variable differing from the first supply variable, to the second section of the at least one emitter.