Vehicle Laser Scanner Mode Switching for Accurate Distance Sensing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional laser scanners have fixed operating modes, leading to inaccuracies in distance measurement based on the vehicle's driving state, which limits their effectiveness in varying environments and driving conditions.

Innovation Solution

A device with a laser scanner that adjusts its operating mode based on the vehicle's driving state, using a computer unit to select from multiple modes and control the scanning parameters such as scanning axis, point density, and pulse sequence, allowing for adaptive distance measurement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If the laser scanner operates in a fixed predetermined mode, then the hardware geometry is simplified, but measurement precision deteriorates in varying driving states

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedistance measurement accuracyVSAvoidoperating mode selection system

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The laser scanner transitions from a fixed predetermined operating mode to a dynamic system that automatically selects operating modes based on detected driving states. The control unit receives driving state information and dynamically adjusts the scanning parameters (such as scanning angle ranges, pulse repetition frequencies, or wavelength) to match the current driving conditions, thereby maintaining measurement precision across varying scenarios without requiring manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters of the laser scanner based on driving states. Different operating modes correspond to different parameter settings (e.g., scanning coverage area, pulse energy, repetition rate). The control unit selects appropriate parameters by detecting the vehicle's driving state, allowing the measurement system to adapt its characteristics to optimize accuracy for specific conditions such as urban driving, highway driving, or parking maneuvers.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If the laser scanner uses a fixed scanning configuration, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to different driving conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptation to driving statesVSAvoidmulti-mode operating system

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The laser scanner is designed with multiple operating modes that can be selected based on different driving states, making the device universal and adaptable to various applications. The same hardware platform can serve urban environments, highways, parking lots, and other scenarios by switching between predefined operating modes, each optimized for specific conditions. This multi-functionality is achieved through a control unit that automatically selects the appropriate mode without requiring multiple separate scanning systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If the laser scanner operates in all driving states with high precision, then measurement accuracy is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedistance measurement accuracyVSAvoidlaser scanner energy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system adjusts energy-consuming parameters such as pulse repetition frequency, laser power, and scanning coverage area based on the detected driving state. In high-risk scenarios requiring high precision, the system uses higher energy consumption settings. In low-risk or steady-state driving conditions, it reduces energy consumption by lowering pulse repetition rates or narrowing the scanning angle range, thereby optimizing the balance between measurement precision and energy efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 flexibility of distance measurements, providing relevant LIDAR data for driving assistance and improving the detection of objects in different driving scenarios.

Implementation Method 1

The objects in the surroundings reflect the laser light. These reflections can subsequently be measured. A distance to the objects can be determined by determining the runtime of the laser light.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight reflection: Reflection