VCSEL Light Source Timing Detection Using Spontaneous Emission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing VCSEL-based light sources for LiDAR systems face challenges in maintaining high precision distance measurement accuracy due to variations in laser oscillation timing caused by environmental changes, which can reduce the measurable distance and light amount.
Innovation Solution
A light source device incorporating a VCSEL with a specific active layer positioning and a light emission timing monitor that utilizes spontaneous emission light to determine the oscillation timing of laser beams, enhancing detection accuracy without reducing the laser beam's light amount.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a part of the generated laser beam is used to detect oscillation timing, then the timing detection capability is improved, but the maximum range-measurable distance becomes short due to reduced light amount for range measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the laser beam into two distinct paths: one for timing detection and another for range measurement. By using a beam splitter, the laser beam is divided such that a portion can be used to detect oscillation timing while the remaining portion maintains sufficient intensity for accurate range measurement, thus resolving the contradiction between timing detection accuracy and measurement range.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the VCSEL operates in varying environmental conditions, then the adaptability is improved, but the oscillation timing varies leading to decreased distance measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The invention implements a feedback mechanism where the detected oscillation timing information is used to compensate for environmental variations. By continuously monitoring the oscillation timing and adjusting the distance measurement calculations accordingly, the system maintains high measurement accuracy despite changes in temperature, humidity, or other environmental conditions.
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
Improves the detection accuracy of laser oscillation timing, enabling precise distance measurements in LiDAR systems by using spontaneous emission light to accurately determine the timing of laser beam emission.
Implementation Method 1
a light emitting element including a first reflector, a second reflector, and a resonator spacer portion provided between the first reflector and the second reflector and including an active layer, and emitting a first light as a laser beam and second light as a spontaneous emission light
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed light source device includes a light emitting element including a first reflector, a second reflector, and a resonator spacer portion provided between the first reflector and the second reflector and including an active layer, and emits a first light as a laser beam and a second light as a spontaneous emission light, a light receiving element that determines an amount of the second light, and a determination unit that determines a timing at which the first light oscillates based on a decrease in the amount of the second light determined by the light receiving element.