Solid-State LIDAR Array for Extended Range and Eye Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current LIDAR systems for autonomous vehicles face limitations in measurement range due to wide field-of-view illumination, which restricts their ability to operate safely and effectively at Class 1 eye safety standards, and lack the reliability and cost-effectiveness of solid-state semiconductor-based systems.
Innovation Solution
A solid-state pulsed time-of-flight LIDAR system utilizing highly collimated laser beams and advanced receiver designs to enhance signal-to-noise ratio, with pulse averaging and histogramming techniques, allowing for longer measurement ranges while maintaining Class 1 eye safety and using a fixed array of emitters and detectors with shared optics for flexibility and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If wide field-of-view illumination is used in LIDAR systems, then coverage area is improved, but measurement range is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the field-of-view into multiple discrete regions, each illuminated by a separate laser beam from an array of emitters. This allows the system to cover a wide angular area while maintaining high beam density in each segment, thereby preserving measurement range through concentrated illumination while achieving wide coverage through the array configuration.
2Length of stationary object
If laser power is increased to extend measurement range, then measurement range is improved, but eye safety is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic pulsed illumination rather than continuous wave emission. By transmitting laser energy in short, periodic pulses, the system achieves high peak power for extended measurement range while keeping the duty cycle low enough to maintain Class 1 eye safety standards. The pulsed operation allows energy to be concentrated in time without excessive average power exposure.
3Measurement precision
If mechanically scanning systems are used, then measurement capability is improved, but reliability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical scanning components with a fixed array of semiconductor laser emitters that can be electronically controlled. This solid-state configuration eliminates moving parts, improving reliability while maintaining measurement capability through electronic beam steering and selection. The array architecture provides the same functional capability as mechanical scanning but with enhanced robustness for automotive environments.
4Reliability
If solid-state semiconductor-based systems are used, then reliability is improved, but measurement range is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple low-power semiconductor laser emitters into a coordinated array that functions as a unified illumination system. By combining the output of multiple emitters operating in synchrony, the system achieves effective high-power illumination for extended measurement range while maintaining the reliability advantages of solid-state semiconductor components. The array configuration allows individual emitter failure to be compensated by neighboring elements.
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 system achieves extended measurement ranges and improved signal-to-noise ratios, ensuring safe and reliable operation while adhering to Class 1 eye safety standards, with a compact and cost-effective design.
Implementation Method 1
an array of vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) configured to emit an array of laser beams
Implementation Method 2
a receiver to detect laser beams reflected from a target
Implementation Method 3
pulsed time-of-flight LIDAR system
Data Source
AI summary
A solid-state LIDAR system includes a plurality of lasers, each generating an optical beam having a FOV when energized. A plurality of detectors is positioned in an optical path of the optical beams generated by the plurality of lasers. A FOV of at least one of the plurality of optical beams generated by the plurality of lasers overlaps a FOV of at least two of the plurality of detectors. A controller is configured to generate bias signals at a plurality of laser control outputs that energize a selected group of the plurality of lasers in a predetermined time sequence and is configured to detect a predetermined sequence of detector signals generated by the plurality of detectors.