Time-of-Flight LiDAR Mirror Scanning for Stable Point Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LIDAR systems face challenges in accurately measuring point distances without using array types, which increases product size and cost, and also struggle with irregular signal processing times, leading to instability and reduced detection speed.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a first mirror with a hole for light emission and a curved reflective surface, and a second mirror that moves vertically to reflect light back to the first mirror, allows for high-performance point measurement without an array type. Additionally, the system receives and converts reflected light into an electrical signal during a sampling period, uniformizing signal processing times and enhancing system stability and speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate camera is used for recognizing artificial landmarks, then recognition accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the landmark recognition function with the existing LIDAR system by integrating an image generator that creates artificial landmarks visible to the LIDAR sensor. This eliminates the need for a separate camera system while maintaining landmark recognition capability through the same optical path used for distance measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The LIDAR system is designed to perform multiple functions: distance measurement and artificial landmark recognition. The image generator projects patterns that serve dual purposes - they are visible to the LIDAR sensor for recognition and can guide the moving object's navigation, making the system versatile without adding separate dedicated components.
2Measurement precision
If array type LIDAR is used to measure pin point distance, then measurement performance is improved, but device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a 2D array LIDAR approach to a 1D linear array combined with a scanning mechanism. The linear array captures distance information along one dimension, while the scanning system (rotating mirror or galvanometer) adds temporal dimension to map the entire field of view, achieving comprehensive coverage with fewer simultaneous sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamic scanning elements (rotating mirrors, galvanometers, or MEMS) to redirect the laser beam across the field of view. This dynamic approach allows a single or limited number of photodetectors to sequentially measure distances at multiple positions, replacing the need for a large static array of simultaneous sensors.
3Productivity
If irregular signal processing time is used without standing by for signal disappearance, then productivity is improved, but system stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a periodic sampling scheme where the LIDAR system operates in regular cycles: emit light pulse, wait for reflected signal, process the signal within a fixed time window, and prepare for the next measurement. This periodic operation provides stable, predictable timing that simplifies signal processing and system control while maintaining high detection throughput.
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 enables accurate and efficient measurement of point distances, reduces product size and cost, stabilizes system operation, and enhances detection speed by uniformizing signal processing times.
Implementation Method 1
The received optical signal is converted into an electrical signal through a photodiode.
Implementation Method 2
Time of flight based light detection and ranging (LIDAR) is remote sensing technique that measures the time in which an optical signal is shot, reflected and returned, and uses the speed of light to measures the distance of a reflector.
Implementation Method 3
a first mirror which includes a hole for passing the light emitted from a light source and has a focus on which the rays reflected from a curved reflective surface are collected
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a LIDAR apparatus based on a time of flight and a moving object which output an electrical signal by transmitting and receiving light, generate a control signal by analyzing the electrical signal, measure a pin point distance by calculating a time of flight of the light based on the control signal, and process point cloud data generated based on a measured distance to accurately construct information on a surrounding environment.