Steered Lidar Spatial Resolution and Range Trade-off
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Solution Overview
Problem
LIDAR systems face limitations in achieving a balance between spatial resolution, range, and cost, with flash systems offering high spatial resolution at low cost but limited range and narrow field of view, while mechanical spinning systems provide 360-degree coverage and long range but are costly, unreliable, and have low spatial resolution.
Innovation Solution
A steered LIDAR system with an arrayed receiver that emits a scanning pulsed fanned laser beam, utilizing a transmit module with scanning mirrors and an arrayed receiver to capture reflected light, allowing for two-dimensional scanning and adaptive control of the field of view, angular resolution, and pulse parameters to optimize range and resolution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If flash LIDAR systems illuminate an entire field of view at once, then high spatial resolution is achieved, but range and field of view are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the field of view into multiple segments by using a spatially-resolved photodetector array that detects photons from different angular positions simultaneously. This allows the system to maintain high spatial resolution while extending range by processing photons from multiple angular segments in parallel, effectively resolving the contradiction between resolution and range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension by detecting photons at multiple angular positions simultaneously through the spatially-resolved photodetector array. This angular dimensionality allows the system to extend the field of view and range while maintaining spatial resolution, as photons from different angles are processed in parallel rather than sequentially.
2Length of stationary object
If mechanical spinning systems use a spinning mirror to direct returned photons, then 360 degree coverage and long range sensing are achieved, but cost, reliability, and spatial resolution deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical spinning mirror system with a stationary optical system that uses a spatially-resolved photodetector array to achieve 360-degree coverage without moving parts. This substitution eliminates mechanical reliability issues while maintaining long-range sensing capability, directly addressing the contradiction between range and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional system where a single stationary optical setup performs multiple functions: it provides 360-degree coverage, achieves long-range sensing, and maintains high spatial resolution simultaneously. The spatially-resolved photodetector array serves multiple purposes, eliminating the need for separate mechanical scanning components.
3Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical spinning systems use a spinning mirror, then 360 degree coverage is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical spinning mirror system with a simpler stationary optical system using a spatially-resolved photodetector array. This substitution reduces device complexity while maintaining 360-degree field of view coverage, as the stationary system eliminates mechanical components and their associated complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the detection function across multiple photodetectors arranged in a spatial pattern, allowing each detector to handle a specific angular sector. This segmentation approach achieves 360-degree coverage through parallel detection rather than mechanical scanning, reducing system complexity by eliminating moving parts.
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 high spatial resolution, long-range sensing, and cost-effective 360-degree coverage by adaptively modifying the field of view and pulse parameters, enhancing angular resolution and range without increasing complexity or cost.
Implementation Method 1
LIDAR systems determine distances to objects by measuring the round trip time-of-flight of laser light pulses
Implementation Method 2
A steered LIDAR system with an arrayed receiver that emits a scanning pulsed fanned laser beam
Implementation Method 3
utilizing a transmit module with scanning mirrors and an arrayed receiver to capture reflected light
Implementation Method 4
an arrayed receiver to capture reflected light
Data Source
AI summary
A light detection and ranging system includes synchronously scanning transmit and receive mirrors that scan a pulsed fanned laser beam in two dimensions. Imaging optics image a receive aperture onto an arrayed receiver that includes a plurality of light sensitive devices. Adaptive methods dynamically modify the size and location of the field of view as well as laser pulse properties in response to internal and external sensors data.