Solid-State LiDAR Detection Arrays for Higher-Resolution Depth Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Solid-state LiDAR devices have relatively lower resolution due to the arrangement of the laser detecting array, limiting their ability to achieve high-resolution LiDAR data.
Innovation Solution
A LiDAR device with a laser detecting array comprising multiple laser detecting units, each containing sub-detecting units, generates enhanced LiDAR data by combining first LiDAR data from the detecting units with second LiDAR data from the sub-detecting units, thereby increasing resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a solid-state LiDAR device uses a laser detecting array with limited arrangement, then the device structure remains simple and compact, but the LiDAR data resolution remains relatively low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides each laser detecting unit into multiple sub-detecting units (e.g., four sub-detecting units per detecting unit). This segmentation allows the system to capture more detailed spatial information from reflected laser beams, thereby improving LiDAR data resolution without requiring a proportional increase in the overall array size. The segmented structure enables finer granularity in depth and position measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an additional dimension of detection by implementing sub-detecting units within each detecting unit. This creates a hierarchical detection structure where sub-units provide finer spatial resolution within the constraints of the overall array arrangement. The multi-dimensional detection approach (combining detecting unit positions with sub-detecting unit positions) enhances resolution without linearly increasing device complexity.
2Manufacturing precision
If the laser detecting array is arranged to achieve high resolution, then LiDAR data quality improves, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting each detecting unit into multiple sub-detecting units, the patent achieves high manufacturing precision through a modular approach. Each sub-detecting unit can be manufactured and positioned with standard tolerances, and the hierarchical structure simplifies the overall assembly process compared to attempting to position individual detectors at high resolution across the entire array.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where sub-detecting units are positioned within each detecting unit. This nesting approach allows for hierarchical manufacturing and assembly processes, where groups of sub-units can be pre-assembled within detecting units, then the detecting units themselves are assembled into the overall array. This reduces the total number of assembly steps and improves manufacturing precision.
3Reliability
If multiple sub-detecting units are included in each laser detecting unit, then signal detection capability and resolution improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments each detecting unit into multiple sub-detecting units, which improves signal detection capability by providing multiple measurement points within each detecting unit. This segmentation enables better signal discrimination and more reliable depth measurement through comparative analysis of signals from different sub-units, while the modular structure manages complexity through systematic organization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where signals from multiple sub-detecting units are processed and compared to determine accurate depth and position information. The system uses the relative signal strengths and timing from different sub-units to feedback-correct depth measurements, improving reliability while managing complexity through intelligent signal processing rather than purely hardware 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 method and device enhance LiDAR data resolution by aligning laser emitting and detecting units to capture and process signals from both detecting and sub-detecting units, resulting in higher-resolution depth images.
Implementation Method 1
Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) has been attracting attention with growing interest in autonomous and unmanned vehicles. LiDAR is a device that obtains distance information about the surroundings using a laser
Implementation Method 2
LiDAR is a device that obtains distance information about the surroundings using a laser
Data Source
AI summary
A light detection and ranging (LiDAR) device according to the present invention comprises: a transmission module including a laser output array and a transmission optic, wherein the laser output array includes a first laser output unit and a second laser output unit, and the second laser output unit is located right next to the first laser output unit; and a reception module including a laser detecting array and a reception optic, wherein the laser detecting array includes a first laser detecting unit and a second laser detecting unit. The transmission module and the reception module are aligned so that the first laser output unit and the first laser detecting unit are optically coupled. The distance between the first laser detecting unit and the second laser detecting unit is determined such that the second laser detecting unit is optically connected to the second laser output unit. The laser detecting array may further include a first ambient detecting unit disposed between the first laser detecting unit and the second laser detecting unit.