Vehicle Laser Detection System with Optical Isolator

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional laser detection systems face interference issues due to scattered detection light returning to the light source, affecting the accuracy of obstacle detection in vehicle-mounted systems.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a wave plate assembly to convert polarization directions of emitted light, an optical isolator to block stray light, and an electrically driven scanner to enhance stability, combined with a light blocking element and beam splitter to improve light utilization and prevent interference.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a conventional laser detection system is used without additional optical components, then the device complexity is low, but light interference occurs when scattered detection light returns to the light source, affecting detection accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an optical isolator as an intermediary component between the light source and the detection system. This isolator allows forward transmission of detection light while blocking backward transmission of scattered light that would otherwise interfere with the light source. By placing this intermediary element in the optical path, the system achieves improved detection accuracy without requiring fundamental redesign of the entire system architecture.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts and removes the harmful scattered light from the system by using the optical isolator to block its path back to the light source. Additionally, a light blocking element is introduced to selectively block scattered light while allowing useful detection light to pass through to the detector. This extraction of harmful elements improves measurement precision by eliminating interference.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Reliability

If scattered light is allowed to propagate freely in the system, then the device complexity remains low, but the light source experiences interference and detection results are affected

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem stabilityVSAvoidoptical component complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The optical isolator serves as a mediator that stabilizes the system by preventing scattered light from reaching the light source. This component ensures reliable operation by maintaining stable light source performance while allowing the detection system to function normally. The isolator acts as a protective barrier that enhances system reliability without requiring complex active control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent converts the harmful effect of scattered light into a beneficial filtering mechanism. By introducing the light blocking element and optical isolator, the system selectively blocks harmful scattered light while allowing useful detection light to pass through. This approach transforms what was originally a harmful interference into a controlled filtering process that improves overall system reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #22Blessing in disguise (Convert harm into benefit)

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 configuration enhances the accuracy and speed of detecting obstacles by minimizing light interference and improving light utilization, leading to better obstacle detection and prevention in vehicle-mounted systems.

Implementation Method 1

a wave plate assembly to convert polarization directions of emitted light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPolarization conversion: Polarisation

Implementation Method 2

an optical isolator to block stray light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectStray light blocking: Absorption (EM radiation)

Implementation Method 3

combined with a light blocking element and beam splitter to improve light utilization

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight splitting: Reflection

Data Source

PatentUS20240045072A1Laser detection system and vehicle having same
Publication Date: 2024.02.08 HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO LTD
  • US20240045072A1 patent drawing
  • US20240045072A1 patent drawing
  • US20240045072A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A laser detection system includes a light source module, an optical isolator, a scanner, and a detector. The light source module is configured for emitting a first laser having a first polarization direction. The optical isolator is on an optical path of the first laser configured to emit a second laser by transmitting the first laser from the light source module and prevent the second laser from transmitting toward the light source module. The scanner is on an optical path of the second laser and configured for reflecting the second laser to project a reference light to the target to be tested. The detector is configured to receive detection light reflected by the target to be tested and obtain position information of the target to be tested according to the detection light.