Silicon Photonics LIDAR Sensor for Wide-Angle Distance Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional LIDAR systems, particularly TOF-type, face challenges in achieving high frame rates and wide-angle detection for in-vehicle applications, which are essential for accurate distance measurement and object detection in complex environments.
Innovation Solution
A distance measurement sensor utilizing a FMCW-type LIDAR system with a scanning unit, diffusing lens, multiplexers, and a processor for parallel processing of optical signals, integrated on a silicon photonics substrate, allowing simultaneous wide-area detection and high frame rate operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If TOF-type LIDAR system is used for long-distance detection, then detection distance is improved, but system size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple LIDAR functional components (light source, scanning unit, receiver, processing circuit) onto a single semiconductor chip using silicon photonics technology. This merging of previously separate components achieves long-distance detection capability while dramatically reducing overall system size, directly resolving the contradiction between detection distance and system volume
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical scanning systems with integrated optical scanning circuits implemented on the semiconductor chip. This substitution eliminates the need for large mechanical moving parts while maintaining scanning functionality, enabling long-distance detection in a compact form factor suitable for vehicle mounting
2Productivity
If conventional LIDAR system is used, then detection capability is achieved, but frame rate and detection angle are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the light receiving function into multiple light receiving antennas arranged in specific directions on the semiconductor chip. This segmentation of the receiver into multiple directional elements enables simultaneous detection across wider angles while maintaining high frame rates through parallel signal processing of multiple channels
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends detection capability from a single direction to multiple spatial dimensions by arranging light receiving antennas in different orientations on the chip. This dimensional expansion allows the system to capture reflected light from various angles simultaneously, achieving wide-angle detection without compromising frame rate performance
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 high frame rate operation and wide-angle detection, improving the accuracy and efficiency of distance measurement for in-vehicle applications, while reducing system size and production costs.
Implementation Method 1
distance measurement sensor that detects a distance to an object based on heterodyne detection using light generated from a light source and another light received by a light receiver
Data Source
AI summary
A distance measurement sensor that detects a distance to an object based on heterodyne detection using light generated from a light source and another light received by a light receiver, includes: a scanning unit which scans the light in a first direction; a diffusing lens which diffuses the light in a second direction; multiplexers which multiplex the light and the another light to provide optical signals, respectively; and a processor which detects the distance to the object based on the optical signals. The light receiver has light receiving antennas in the second direction. The multiplexers are connected to the light receiving antennas, respectively. The processor performs a parallel processing for detecting the distance to the object based on the optical signals with respect to the light receiving antennas individually.