Vehicle LiDAR Module Layout With Time-Synchronized Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional LIDAR systems for motor vehicles are bulky, weather-exposed, energy-intensive, and not well-suited for various driving scenarios due to their integrated design and high energy requirements.
Innovation Solution
A LIDAR system comprising separate transmitter and receiver modules connected via a central control unit for time synchronization, allowing flexible selection and use of modules based on driving conditions, with modules installed at various positions within the vehicle for efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If LIDAR systems use integrated modules with transmitter and receiver in a common housing, then the system structure is simplified, but the installation space requirement increases and the system becomes exposed to elements requiring additional protection mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The LIDAR system is divided into separate transmitter modules and receiver modules that can be independently positioned and installed at different locations on the vehicle, rather than being housed together in a single integrated unit. This segmentation allows each module to be optimally placed and reduces the concentrated space requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The separate transmitter and receiver modules can be integrated into existing vehicle components such as headlights, taillights, or other structural elements, allowing them to serve multiple functions and reducing the need for dedicated LIDAR housing space.
2Adaptability or versatility
If LIDAR modules are exposed to the elements, then the system can operate in various weather conditions, but additional heating and cleaning mechanisms are required increasing energy consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The LIDAR modules are combined with existing vehicle lighting systems (headlights, taillights) that already have protective housings and heating elements, thereby sharing the protection infrastructure and reducing the need for separate heating and cleaning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The LIDAR modules utilize the existing protective structures and heating systems of the vehicle's lighting components, allowing them to benefit from self-protection against environmental elements without requiring additional dedicated energy-consuming mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate transmitter and receiver modules are used with central control unit for time synchronization, then the system becomes more flexible for various driving scenarios, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A central control unit acts as an intermediary to manage the separate transmitter and receiver modules, handling time synchronization and coordinate transformation. This intermediary approach allows the system to maintain flexibility while managing complexity through centralized control logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The system handles the complexity of separate modules by transforming the problem into a different dimension - using software-based time synchronization and coordinate transformation algorithms rather than requiring complex physical alignment mechanisms, thereby achieving flexibility through information processing rather than mechanical complexity.
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
Enables a more compact, energy-efficient, and adaptable LIDAR system that can effectively operate in diverse driving scenarios by dynamically selecting suitable transmitter and receiver modules based on current conditions.
Implementation Method 1
LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) systems in motor vehicles to measure distances and thus speeds in the vehicle's surroundings by emitting laser beams
Implementation Method 2
detecting their reflections
Data Source
Figure 1~2b
Figure 3
Figure 4
AI summary
A motor vehicle with a LIDAR system, wherein the LIDAR system comprises at least one transmitter module (1) and at least one receiver module (2), wherein all transmitter and receiver modules (1, 2) are designed as separate, independent units, wherein the transmitter module (1) and the receiver module (2) are connected via a data line to a control unit (4) of the LIDAR system, wherein the control unit (4) is configured to establish a time synchronization between the transmitter module (1) and the receiver module (2).