Spring-Loaded Mount for MEMS Alignment in LiDAR
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LiDAR manufacturing methods face challenges in accurately aligning optical components due to instability caused by excessive glue usage and the complexity of mechanical mounts, which can lead to misalignment and reduced system accuracy.
Innovation Solution
The use of mechanical mounts with multiple degrees of freedom, specifically spring-loaded posts and adjustable screws, to precisely align MEMS boards within LiDAR systems, allowing for fine-tuning of optical components in compact spaces with limited clearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If massive glue is applied to fill the clearance between components, then the components are fixed, but the alignment stability deteriorates due to glue shrinkage causing components to move out from well-aligned positions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the glue entirely from the alignment and fixing process. Instead of using glue to fill clearance between components, the invention uses precision mechanical mounting with adjustable screws and spring-loaded posts that require no adhesive, thereby eliminating shrinkage-induced misalignment while maintaining secure fixation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces spring-loaded posts as intermediary elements between the MEMS driver board and the mount. These posts provide compliant mechanical contact that accommodates minor variations while maintaining precise alignment, serving as a mediator that eliminates the need for glue while ensuring stable component positioning
2Manufacturing precision
If customized screws and nuts are used to slowly approach MEMS driver board, then alignment can be achieved, but the manufacturing time increases and operator skill requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates pre-adjusted spring-loaded posts and precision mounting holes that are manufactured with tight tolerances in advance. This preliminary precision work eliminates the need for time-consuming manual screw adjustments during assembly, as components can be quickly installed and secured without requiring operators to slowly approach and meticulously align the MEMS driver board
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded posts automatically provide compliant contact and self-centering functionality when the MEMS driver board is installed. The mechanism self-adjusts to accommodate minor position variations without requiring manual intervention or skilled operator manipulation of screws and nuts, thereby speeding up the assembly process while maintaining alignment precision
3Quantity of substance
If the clearance between MEMS driver board and mount is decreased, then the amount of glue needed is reduced, but the alignment angles are sacrificed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent completely eliminates glue from the assembly process, making the clearance size irrelevant to adhesive requirements. The spring-loaded posts and precision mechanical mounting provide stable alignment and secure fixation without any adhesive, thereby resolving the trade-off between clearance reduction and alignment angle preservation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of fixation method from chemical (glue) to mechanical (spring-loaded posts and screws). This parameter change allows the system to maintain precise alignment angles regardless of clearance dimensions, as the mechanical mounting system provides compliant contact that accommodates variations without sacrificing alignment precision
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 approach enhances the accuracy and stability of LiDAR systems by reducing the need for excessive glue and minimizing misalignment, while maintaining the compact design necessary for vehicle-mounted LiDAR systems.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of spring-loaded posts each formed by fitting a spring into a respective post
Data Source
AI summary
A MEMS board assembly, a LiDAR system including the same, and a method for making the same are disclosed. The exemplary MEMS board assembly includes a MEMS board having a plurality of through holes and a mount having a plurality of threaded holes. The MEMS board assembly further includes a plurality of spring-loaded posts each formed by fitting a spring into a respective post. The plurality of spring-loaded posts are fitted into the plurality of threaded holes of the mount. The MEMS board assembly also includes a plurality of screws fitting the MEMS board to the mount by reaching into the plurality of threaded holes of the mount through the plurality of through holes in the MEMS board and the plurality of spring-loaded posts. The MEMS board touches the plurality of spring-loaded posts at the plurality of through holes in the MEMS board corresponding to the plurality of threaded holes of the mount respectively.