According to an embodiment, operations of controlling a Region of Interest (ROI) in a Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) system may include scanning, by a transceiver and scanner of the LiDAR system, a field of view (FOV) to obtain a point cloud corresponding to the FOV. A controller of the LiDAR system may generate at least a partial frame of three-dimensional spatial coordinates of surface points in the FOV. The controller may detect one or more of a pixel horizon or a forward clearance corridor based on the partial frame. The controller may further adjust one or more of a vertical parameter or a horizontal parameter of a Region of Interest (ROI) within the FOV based on one or more of the pixel horizon or the forward clearance corridor.
According to an embodiment, operations for correcting Light Detection And Ranging (LiDAR) return pulse elongation may include determining a correction factor that corresponds to an angle of a surface of a target surface with respect to a LiDAR system. The operations may also include adjusting, based on the correction factor, a pulse width of a return pulse off the target surface, the pulse width corresponding to a duration of reception of the return pulse.
G01S 17/00 - Systèmes utilisant la réflexion ou la reradiation d'ondes électromagnétiques autres que les ondes radio, p. ex. systèmes lidar
G01S 17/04 - Systèmes de détermination de la présence d'une cible
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
G01S 7/00 - Détails des systèmes correspondant aux groupes , ,
G01S 7/41 - Détails des systèmes correspondant aux groupes , , de systèmes selon le groupe utilisant l'analyse du signal d'écho pour la caractérisation de la cibleSignature de cibleSurface équivalente de cible
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide dynamic calibration systems, methods, and computer program products for dynamic calibration of a LiDAR system in which calibration can be checked while the vehicle is moving in a typical environment (e.g., while a car is driving on a road in a rural or urban setting). In some embodiments, line features in an operating environment of a vehicle to which the LiDAR system is mounted are used to perform dynamic calibration. In some embodiments, planar features in an operating environment of a vehicle to this the LiDAR system is mounted are used to perform dynamic calibration. These and other embodiments are more fully disclosed herein.
Embodiments of the present disclosure provide stray light filter structures in light detection and ranging (LiDAR) systems to attenuate stray light and reduce unwanted scattering. In some embodiments, a micro lens array is used together with a pinhole array to block stray light in the optical path just prior to the photodetector. In some embodiments, a bandpass optical filter is used in the optical path prior to the microlens array. In other embodiments, a slit filter is used further upstream in the optical path to block unwanted stray light and allow returning signal light to pass to imaging optics that provide a returning signal light image at a photodetector. In some embodiments, the imaging optics include a collimating lens and a focusing lens. In some embodiments, an optical bandpass filter is positioned on the optical path between the collimating lens and the focusing lens to reject light that is outside of a an expected wavelength range for returning signal light. These and other embodiments and details are further disclosed herein.
LiDAR system and methods discussed herein use ultrafast light pulses. Use of ultrafast light pulses can result in reduced power consumption compared to longer length or conventional light pulses.
A method for tracking zero-angle position shift of a moveable mirror used in a LiDAR system is provided. The method comprises obtaining a first dataset based on a first intensity map. The first intensity map is associated with internal reflection pulses of a frame scanned by the LiDAR system. The frame comprises a plurality of scan positions. The internal reflection pulses are formed by scattering or reflecting one or more transmission light pulses at positions internal to a housing of the LiDAR system. The first dataset is a calibration dataset comprising representative intensity values and corresponding positions in the frame. The method further comprises obtaining a second intensity map of another frame at a subsequent time and obtaining a second dataset based on the second intensity map. The method further comprises determining the zero-angle position shift of the moveable mirror based on the first dataset and the second dataset.
A system for light ranging and detection (LiDAR) is described. The system comprises a semiconductor laser (SL) device array comprising a plurality of SL devices mounted on a substrate. A charging capacitor array comprising a plurality of charging capacitors is mounted on the substrate proximate to the SL device array, where each SL device of the SL device array is coupled to a different charging capacitor of the charging capacitor array. A charging bus element comprising a plurality of charging buses is proximate to the charging capacitor array, where each adjacent charging capacitor of the charging capacitor array is coupled to a different charging bus of the charging bus element.
G01S 17/89 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour la cartographie ou l'imagerie
G01S 17/90 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour la cartographie ou l'imagerie utilisant des techniques d'ouverture synthétique
G01S 17/93 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions
G01S 7/48 - Détails des systèmes correspondant aux groupes , , de systèmes selon le groupe
Systems and methods for reducing straylight using synchronized filtering are provided. The system comprises a light source emitting laser light having a first wavelength range and a transmitter. The transmitter is configured to provide transmission light based on the laser light having the first wavelength range. The system further comprises a receiver configured to receive return light comprising straylight and light signals formed based on the transmission light. The system further comprises a synchronized filter structure comprising one or more bandpass filters having substantially the same passband. The synchronized filter structure reduces the bandwidth of the laser light from the first wavelength range to a second wavelength range; filters out at least a portion of the straylight having wavelengths outside of the second wavelength range; and passes a substantial portion of the light signals formed based on the transmission light to the detector.
A system for light ranging and detection (LiDAR) is described. The system comprises image processing circuitry operative to generate point cloud data based on an image of return light that is a consequence of a light transmission in a field-of-view (FOV) captured by an optical receiver, where the point cloud data comprises one or more blooming features. The system further comprises feature extraction circuitry coupled to the image processing circuitry. The feature extraction circuitry is operative to weight probabilities of images of target objects being present in the point cloud data based at least in part on the one or more blooming features. The feature extraction circuitry is further operative to provide the weight probabilities to recognition circuitry operative to determine whether images of target objects are present in the point cloud data based on the weight probabilities.
A system for multimodal detection is provided. The system comprises a light collection and distribution device configured to perform at least one of collecting light signals from a field-of-view (FOV) and distributing the light signals to a plurality of detectors. The light signals have a plurality of wavelengths comprising at least a first wavelength and a second wavelength. The system further comprises a multimodal sensor comprising the plurality of detectors. The plurality of detectors comprises at least a light detector of a first type and a light detector of a second type. The light detector of the first type is configured to detect light signals having a first light characteristic. The light detector of the first type is configured to perform distance measuring based on light signals having the first wavelength. The light detector of the second type is configured to detect light signals having a second light characteristic.
The present disclosure describes a system and method for LiDAR scanning. The system includes a light source configured to generate one or more light beams; and a beam steering apparatus optically coupled to the light source. The beam steering apparatus includes a first rotatable mirror and a second rotatable mirror. The first rotatable mirror and the second rotatable mirror, when moving with respect to each other, are configured to: steer the one or more light beams both vertically and horizontally to illuminate an object within a field-of-view; redirect one or more returning light pulses generated based on the illumination of the object; and a receiving optical system configured to receive the redirected returning light pulses.
A system for reducing or eliminating wavelength variations of laser light is provided. The system comprises a semiconductor-based laser source emitting laser light, an optical scanner, and one or more optical elements disposed between the laser source and the optical scanner. The optical scanner is configured to direct the laser light to a field-of-view. The one or more optical elements are configured to direct the laser light from the laser source to the optical scanner. The system further comprises a grating structure mounted to, or integrated with, an optical element of the one or more optical elements. One or more characteristics of the grating structure are configured to reduce or eliminate wavelength variations of the laser light caused by variations of one or more operational conditions of the laser source.
A Hybrid Detection and Ranging (HyDAR) system configured for detecting signals with multiple wavelengths is provided. The system comprises: a laser light source providing laser light signals; an aperture window; one or more steering mechanisms configured to perform: directing the laser light signals toward the aperture window, receiving first return light signals formed based on at least a portion of the laser light signals provided by the laser light source, and receiving second return light signals formed from light provided by one or more light sources external to the HyDAR system. The system further includes a multimodal sensor including a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) sensor and an image sensor. The point cloud data and the image data are at least partially time-and-space synchronized at the hardware-level of the HyDAR system. The system further includes a controller configured to detect one or more degradation factors affecting the HyDAR system's performance.
A light receiver of a LiDAR system is provided. The light receiver includes a plurality of light detectors configured to receive light from a field-of-view (FOV) of the LiDAR system and generate a plurality of electrical outputs based on the received light. The light receiver further includes a matrix switch device controlled to form switched outputs based on the plurality of electrical outputs from the plurality of light detectors. The matrix switch device is configurable to have a plurality of different switch settings based on at least one of detection results or operational conditions of the LiDAR system. The light receiver further includes a sampler configured to generate, based on the switched outputs, at least one digital output representing the received light.
Various embodiments of a fiber laser amplifier are disclosed. In some embodiments, a gain fiber of a laser amplifier is provided in which a core of the gain fiber has one or more characteristics that are different at a first end than at a second end including, for example, one or more of a diameter, a refractive index, and a rare earth dopant concentration. In some embodiments, a residual pump laser reflecting element is positioned to reflect residual pump laser light back into the gain fiber to enhance amplification efficiency. In some embodiments, a first cladding of non-uniform thickness is provided around a core of a gain fiber. These and other aspects of embodiments are more fully disclosed herein.
H01S 3/094 - Procédés ou appareils pour l'excitation, p. ex. pompage utilisant le pompage optique par de la lumière cohérente
H01S 3/00 - Lasers, c.-à-d. dispositifs utilisant l'émission stimulée de rayonnement électromagnétique dans la gamme de l’infrarouge, du visible ou de l’ultraviolet
H01S 3/0941 - Procédés ou appareils pour l'excitation, p. ex. pompage utilisant le pompage optique par de la lumière cohérente produite par un laser à semi-conducteur, p. ex. par une diode laser
A compact LiDAR device is provided. The compact LiDAR device includes a first mirror disposed to receive one or more light beams and a polygon mirror optically coupled to the first mirror. The polygon mirror comprises a plurality of reflective facets. For at least two of the plurality of reflective facets, each reflective facet is arranged such that: a first edge, a second edge, and a third edge of the reflective facet correspond to a first line, a second line, and a third line; the first line and the second line intersect to form a first internal angle of a plane comprising the reflective facet; and the first line and the third line intersect to form a second internal angle of the plane comprising the reflective facet. The first internal angle is an acute angle; and the second internal angle is an obtuse angle.
A dual lens assembly positioned along an optical receive path within a LiDAR system is provided. The dual lens assembly is constructed to reduce a numerical aperture of a returned light pulse and reduce a walk-off error associated with one or more mirrors of the LiDAR system.
A system for light ranging and detection (LiDAR) is disclosed herein. The system comprises a laser transmitter transmitting one or more channels of light pulses. A rotating polygon mirror having a plurality of reflective facets directs the one or more channels of light pulses from the laser transmitter through a transmission region at a top surface of the system toward an external field of view and receives reflected light from the external field of view illuminated by the one or more channels of light pulses. A receiver detects the reflected light from channels corresponding to the one or more channels of light pulses. The laser transmitter, the rotating polygon mirror, and the receiver are substantially coplanar on a plane parallel to the top surface.
A system for light ranging and detection (LiDAR) is disclosed herein. The system comprises a laser transmitter transmitting one or more channels of light pulses. A rotating polygon mirror having a plurality of reflective facets directs the one or more channels of light pulses from the laser transmitter through a transmission region at a top surface of the system toward an external field of view and receives reflected light from the external field of view illuminated by the one or more channels of light pulses. A receiver detects the reflected light from channels corresponding to the one or more channels of light pulses. The laser transmitter, the rotating polygon mirror, and the receiver are substantially coplanar on a plane parallel to the top surface.
G01S 7/481 - Caractéristiques de structure, p. ex. agencements d'éléments optiques
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
G02B 5/09 - Miroirs à facettes multiples ou polygonales
G02B 26/08 - Dispositifs ou dispositions optiques pour la commande de la lumière utilisant des éléments optiques mobiles ou déformables pour commander la direction de la lumière
A LiDAR system having two-dimensional transmitter array is provided. The LiDAR system comprises a light scanner, and a plurality of transmitter groups optically couplable to the light scanner. Each transmitter group of the plurality of transmitter groups comprises a plurality of transmitters. At least two transmitter groups of the plurality of transmitter groups are disposed at different positions with respect to the light scanner, such that scanning areas corresponding to the at least two transmitter groups are different. The LiDAR further comprises a control device configured to selectively control one or more of the plurality of transmitter groups to emit transmission beams toward the light scanner. The light scanner is configured to steer the transmission beams both vertically and horizontally to a field-of-view (FOV), and receive return light formed based on the steered transmission beams.
A laser device for providing light to a LiDAR system comprises a plurality of seed lasers configured to provide multiple seed light beams, at least two of the seed light beams having different wavelengths. An amplifier is optically coupled to the plurality of seed lasers to receive the multiple seed light beams. A power pump is configured to provide pump power to the amplifier, where the amplifier amplifies the multiple seed light beams using the pump power to obtain amplified light beams. A second light coupling unit is configured to demultiplex the amplified light beams to obtain a plurality of output light beams, at least two of the output light beams having wavelengths corresponding to the wavelengths of the at least two seed light beams.
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
G01S 7/481 - Caractéristiques de structure, p. ex. agencements d'éléments optiques
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
22.
OPTICAL SCANNER NOISE REDUCTION WITH IMPROVED AIR FLOW
An optical scanning device for light ranging and detection (LiDAR) is provided. The optical scanning device comprises a rotatable polygon reflector having a plurality of reflective facets. The rotatable polygon reflector is configured to rotate about a first rotation axis in a first rotation direction. The optical scanning device further comprises one or more fluid circulation devices disposed alongside the rotatable polygon reflector or attached to the rotatable polygon reflector. The one or more fluid circulation devices are configured to rotate about a second rotation axis to form a fluid circulation surrounding the plurality of reflective facets of the rotatable polygon reflector. The fluid circulation is at least partially in the first rotation direction.
A method for tracking zero-angle position shift of a moveable mirror used in a LiDAR system is provided. The method comprises obtaining a first dataset based on a first intensity map. The first intensity map is associated with internal reflection pulses of a frame scanned by the LiDAR system. The frame comprises a plurality of scan positions. The internal reflection pulses are formed by scattering or reflecting one or more transmission light pulses at positions internal to a housing of the LiDAR system. The first dataset is a calibration dataset comprising representative intensity values and corresponding positions in the frame. The method further comprises obtaining a second intensity map of another frame at a subsequent time and obtaining a second dataset based on the second intensity map. The method further comprises determining the zero-angle position shift of the moveable mirror based on the first dataset and the second dataset.
A light ranging and detection (LiDAR) system is provided. The system comprises a housing; a transmitter configured to transmit one or more light beams; and a beam steering apparatus optically coupled to the transmitter to receive the one or more light beams. The beam steering apparatus comprises one or more moveable optics configured to scan the one or more light beams to a field-of-view and to receive return light. The system further comprises a curved window mounted to, or integrated with, the housing of the LiDAR system. The curved window is shaped in a manner such that a thickness of the curved window varies along one or more dimensions of the curved window to facilitate bending at least some of the scanned one or more light beams to expand the field-of-view (FOV) in at least one of a horizontal direction or a vertical direction.
A low-profile LiDAR system is provided. The low-profile LiDAR system comprises a housing; a rotatable polygon mirror having a plurality of reflective facets; and a first oscillating mirror disposed laterally on one side of the rotatable polygon mirror. The first oscillating mirror is configured to direct one or more first transmission light beams to a first reflective facet of the rotatable polygon mirror. The LiDAR system may also include a second oscillating mirror disposed laterally on another side of the rotatable polygon mirror. The second oscillating mirror is configured to direct the one or more second transmission light beams to a second reflective facet. A combination of the first and second oscillating mirrors, and the rotatable polygon mirror is configured to: scan the first and second transmission light beams to a first field-of-view and a second field-of-view, respectively, and direct return light to one or more detectors.
A light detection and ranging (LiDAR) system in which multiple pump lasers are operated in polyphase fashion at a single pumping stage is disclosed. In some embodiments, the multiple pump lasers are operated by controllers that generate current pulses through the multiple pump lasers. The current pulses powering at least two of the pumping lasers have different phases. In some embodiments, the phase differences are such that there is no timing overlap in the current pulses through the pump lasers. In some embodiments, the phase difference between successive current pulses is greater than the pulse width such that the sum of the duty cycles of all the current pulses is less than one. In some embodiments, junction temperatures of pump lasers are monitored and temperature information from the monitoring is used to dynamically select which pump laser will be utilized at a given time. Further details of these and other embodiments are disclosed herein.
An electromagnetically-moveable scanner device for performing light scan used in a light ranging and detection (LiDAR) system is provided. The device comprises a platform, which comprises a film substrate. The platform is pivotable about an axis. The device further comprises a reflector disposed on the platform, a plurality of magnets disposed in proximity to one or more edges of the film substrate and detached therefrom, and one or more electrical windings installed on the platform. At least a part of the electrical windings is disposed underneath the reflector. When the one or more electrical windings carry electric current, an interaction between magnetic fields formed by the plurality of the magnets and the electrical windings is operative to move the reflector electromagnetically to scan a field-of-view along at least one direction.
Embodiments discussed herein refer to LiDAR systems that use avalanche photo diodes for detecting returns of laser pulses. The bias voltage applied to the avalanche photo diode is adjusted to ensure that it operates at desired operating capacity.
A LiDAR system includes a steering system and a light source. In some cases, the steering system includes a rotatable polygon with reflective sides and/or a dispersion optic. The light source produces light signals, such as light pulses. In some cases, the light sources products light pulses at different incident angles and/or different wavelengths. The steering system scans the light signals. In some cases, the light pulses are scanned based on the wavelength of the light pulses.
G01S 7/481 - Caractéristiques de structure, p. ex. agencements d'éléments optiques
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
G01S 7/4865 - Mesure du temps de retard, p. ex. mesure du temps de vol ou de l'heure d'arrivée ou détermination de la position exacte d'un pic
Embodiments discussed herein refer to systems and methods that compensate for debris and water obfuscation that affect operation of LiDAR systems. A debris management system can direct air and/or fluid over a portion of the LiDAR system to remove any debris or water.
G01S 7/481 - Caractéristiques de structure, p. ex. agencements d'éléments optiques
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
32.
FIBER-BASED TRANSMITTER AND RECEIVER CHANNELS OF LIGHT DETECTION AND RANGING SYSTEMS
A LiDAR system is provided. The LiDAR system comprises a plurality of transmitter channels and a plurality of receiver channels. The plurality of transmitter channels are configured to transmit a plurality of transmission light beams to a field-of-view at a plurality of different transmission angles, which are then scanned to cover the entire field-of-view. The LiDAR system further comprises a collection lens disposed to receive and redirect return light obtained based on the plurality of transmission light beams illuminating one or more objects within the field-of-view. The LiDAR system further comprises a plurality of receiver channels optically coupled to the collection lens. Each of the receiver channels is optically aligned based on a transmission angle of a corresponding transmission light beam. The LiDAR system further comprises a plurality of detector assemblies optically coupled to the plurality of receiver channels.
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
G02B 26/08 - Dispositifs ou dispositions optiques pour la commande de la lumière utilisant des éléments optiques mobiles ou déformables pour commander la direction de la lumière
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
Lidar apparatus; Lidar sensors; optical sensors; electronic sensors for sensing, detecting objects, and mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the sensor; laser object detectors for use on vehicles and trains, and for infrastructure, safety, industrial, and security applications; laser scanners for use on vehicles and trains, and for infrastructure, safety, industrial, and security applications; lasers for measuring purposes; proximity sensors; electronic proximity sensors and switches; measuring apparatus, namely, laser distance meters; downloadable and recorded computer software for connecting, operating, and managing networked electronic proximity sensors and switches, lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing, detecting objects, and for capturing, analyzing, and mapping data of the three-dimensional space surrounding the sensor in the internet of things (IoT); Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure; Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for object detection and classification, and for data analysis; Downloadable and recorded software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for object detection and classification; Downloadable and recorded software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Downloadable and recorded software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment; chips; integrated circuits; integrated circuit cards. Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for object detection and classification, and for data analysis; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for object detection and classification; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment; scientific and technological services, namely, scientific research in the field of software for use in connection with sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; design of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; industrial research in the field of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar systems; Capturing, providing, and analyzing data in the field of 3D surveying; Mapping services for use in the detection, classification, and tracking of physical objects.
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
Lidar apparatus; Lidar sensors; optical sensors; electronic sensors for sensing and detecting objects, and mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the sensor; laser object detectors for use on vehicles and trains, and for infrastructure, safety, industrial, and security applications; laser scanners for use on vehicles and trains, and for infrastructure, safety, industrial, and security applications; lasers for measuring purposes; proximity sensors; electronic proximity sensors and switches; measuring apparatus, namely, laser distance meters; downloadable and recorded computer software for connecting, operating, and managing networked electronic proximity sensors and switches, lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing, detecting objects, and for capturing, analyzing, and mapping data of the three-dimensional space surrounding the sensor in the internet of things (IoT); Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure; Downloadable and recorded software for use in operating, managing, and calibrating lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for object detection and classification, and for data analysis; Downloadable and recorded software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for object detection and classification; Downloadable and recorded software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Downloadable and recorded software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment; semiconductor chips; integrated circuits; integrated circuit cards Providing on-line non-downloadable software for detecting and classifying objects for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for object detection and classification, and for data analysis; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for object detection and classification; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment; scientific and technological services, namely, scientific research in the field of software for use in connection with sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; design of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; industrial research in the field of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar systems; Surveying services, namely, capturing, providing, and analyzing data in the field of 3D surveying for others; Mapping services for use in the detection, classification, and tracking of physical objects
36.
LOW PROFILE LIDAR SYSTEMS WITH MULTIPLE POLYGON SCANNERS
A light detection and ranging (LiDAR) scanning system used with a moveable platform is provided. The LiDAR scanning system comprises one or more light sources; and one or more optical core assemblies optically coupled to the one or more light sources. At least one optical core assembly of the one or more optical core assemblies comprises: an optical core assembly enclosure at least partially disposed in the moveable platform; a plurality of optical polygon elements, and one or more moveable reflective elements. The combination of the plurality of optical polygon elements and the one or more moveable reflective elements form one or more light steering devices operative to scan one or more field-of-views of the LiDAR system. The plurality of optical polygon elements, the one or more moveable reflective elements, and at least one of transmitting and receiving optics are disposed within the optical core assembly enclosure.
A dual emitting co-axial light detection and ranging (LiDAR) system is provided. The LiDAR system comprises a first light source configured to provide a first light beam, a second light source configured to provide a second light beam, a light detector configured to detect return light, one or more optical elements configured to transmit the first light beam to a target in a field of view and to direct return light to the light detector, a first light detector configured to detect the return light and internally-reflected light, a second light detector configured to detect return light formed from the second light beam, and control circuitry configured to mitigate a blind-zone effect based on the detected return light formed from the second light beam. The one or more optical elements are disposed outside of a light path of the second light beam from the second light source.
G01S 7/481 - Caractéristiques de structure, p. ex. agencements d'éléments optiques
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
G01S 7/4865 - Mesure du temps de retard, p. ex. mesure du temps de vol ou de l'heure d'arrivée ou détermination de la position exacte d'un pic
38.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TUNING FILTERS FOR USE IN LIDAR SYSTEMS
A LiDAR system comprising one or more tunable filters is provided. The one or more tunable filters can be tuned to compensate for wavelength shifts of light signals caused by ambient environmental changes. The LiDAR system includes a light source providing light signals, a signal steering system configured to direct the light signals to a field-of-view, and temperature monitoring circuitry configured to monitor a temperature shift of the light source. The temperature shift corresponds to a wavelength shift of the light signals from a first wavelength value to a second wavelength value. The system further comprises a tunable filter positioned in a receiving system configured to receive return light signals, and a motor configured to rotate the tunable filter by an angle based on the temperature shift such that a passband of the tunable filter matches the second wavelength value.
A method for dynamically calibrating a light detector of a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) system is disclosed. The method comprises obtaining an indication for use. The method further comprises determining, based on the indication, whether to perform the calibration of the light detector operating with a first bias voltage. The method further comprises, in accordance with a determination to perform the calibration, initiating a multiple-point calibration of the light detector across a bias voltage scanning range, wherein the multiple-point calibration comprises determining a second bias voltage corresponding to a current temperature in an operating environment of the light detector. The method further comprises determining, based on the multiple-point calibration, whether to update the first bias voltage based on the second bias voltage.
Embodiments discussed herein refer to LiDAR systems and methods that tune one or more filters to mitigate background interference. The one or more filters can be tuned to compensate for laser drift such that the narrowest possible bandpass filter can be used, thereby increasing the rejection of background interference.
A method for calculating time-of-flight on a LiDAR system is provided. The method comprises transmitting outgoing light pulses to a beam steering system that redirects the outgoing light pulses to a field of view of the LiDAR system; detecting return pulses corresponding to the outgoing light pulses; obtaining an intensity of a return pulse of the detected return pulses; determining whether the intensity of the return pulse is within an intensity threshold; and based on the determination, selecting a pulse-center based method or a pulse-edge based method for measuring a time-of-flight between the return pulse and the corresponding outgoing light pulse. The time-of-flight is a time lapse between a timing of the return pulse and a timing of the corresponding outgoing light pulse. The method further comprises measuring the time-of-flight based on the selected method.
A compact perception device for an autonomous driving system is disclosed. The compact perception device includes a lens configured to collect both visible light and near infrared (NIR) light to obtain collected light including collected visible light and collected NIR light. The device further includes a first optical reflector optically coupled to the lens. The first optical reflector is configured to reflect one of the collected visible light or the collected NIR light, and pass the collected light that is not reflected by the first optical reflector. The device further includes an image sensor configured to detect the collected visible light directed by the first optical reflector to form image data; and a depth sensor configured to detect the collected NIR light directed by the first optical reflector to form depth data.
H04N 25/70 - Architectures de capteurs SSISCircuits associés à ces dernières
G01S 17/89 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour la cartographie ou l'imagerie
H04N 25/20 - Circuits de capteurs d'images à l'état solide [capteurs SSIS]Leur commande pour transformer uniquement le rayonnement infrarouge en signaux d'image
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
Lidar apparatus; Lidar sensors; optical sensors; electronic sensors for sensing, detecting objects, and mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the sensor; laser object detectors for use on vehicles and trains, and for infrastructure, safety, industrial, and security applications; laser scanners for use on vehicles and trains, and for infrastructure, safety, industrial, and security applications; lasers for measuring purposes; proximity sensors; electronic proximity sensors and switches; measuring apparatus, namely, laser distance meters; downloadable and recorded computer software for connecting, operating, and managing networked electronic proximity sensors and switches, lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing, detecting objects, and for capturing, analyzing, and mapping data of the three-dimensional space surrounding the sensor in the internet of things (IoT); Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure; Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for object detection and classification, and for data analysis; Downloadable and recorded software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for object detection and classification; Downloadable and recorded software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Downloadable and recorded software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment; chips [integrated circuits]; integrated circuits; integrated circuit cards [smart cards]. Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for object detection and classification, and for data analysis; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for object detection and classification; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment; scientific and technological services, namely, scientific research in the field of software for use in connection with sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; design of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; industrial research in the field of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar systems; Capturing, providing, and analyzing data in the field of 3D surveying; Mapping services for use in the detection, classification, and tracking of physical objects.
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
Lidar apparatus; electric sensors, namely, lidar sensors; optical sensors; electronic sensors for sensing, detecting objects, and mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the sensor; laser object detectors for use on vehicles and trains, and for infrastructure, safety, industrial, and security applications; laser scanners for use on vehicles and trains for infrastructure, safety, industrial, and security inspection; lasers for measuring purposes; proximity sensors; electronic proximity sensors and switches; measuring apparatus, namely, laser distance meters; downloadable and recorded computer software for connecting, operating, and managing networked electronic proximity sensors and switches, lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing, detecting objects, and for capturing, analyzing, and mapping data of the three-dimensional space surrounding the sensor in the internet of things (IoT); Downloadable and recorded software for detecting and classifying objects for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure; Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Downloadable and recorded software for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for detecting and classifying objects, and for data analysis; Downloadable and recorded software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for detecting and classifying objects; Downloadable and recorded software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Downloadable and recorded software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment; semiconductor chips; integrated circuits; integrated circuit cards Providing on-line non-downloadable software for detecting and classifying objects for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for detecting and classifying objects, and for data analysis; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for detecting and classifying objects; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment; scientific and technological services, namely, scientific research in the field of software for use in connection with sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; design of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; industrial research in the field of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar systems; Surveying services, namely, capturing, providing, and analyzing data in the field of 3D surveying; Mapping services for use in the detection, classification, and tracking of physical objects
A system for multimodal detection is provided. The system comprises a light collection and distribution device configured to perform at least one of collecting light signals from a field-of-view (FOV) and distributing the light signals to a plurality of detectors. The light signals have a plurality of wavelengths comprising at least a first wavelength and a second wavelength. The system further comprises a multimodal sensor comprising the plurality of detectors. The plurality of detectors comprises at least a light detector of a first type and a light detector of a second type. The light detector of the first type is configured to detect light signals having a first light characteristic. The light detector of the first type is configured to perform distance measuring based on light signals having the first wavelength. The light detector of the second type is configured to detect light signals having a second light characteristic.
A Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) scanning system, having a window blockage detector, aids in delivering reliable point cloud data associated with surroundings during instances of window blockage. A laser source within the system may generate one or more beams of light transmitted through a window, scanning the surroundings for external objects. The window blockage detector couples to receive scattered light from the window, as well as returning light from an object in the path of one or more light beams. From the scattered and returning light pulses, the window blockage detector having a thresholding method determines a window state relative to a select one of the following states including, unblocked, blocked, and null; wherein the null state exists when the beam of light intersects an empty sky or a highly absorbent object. Thereby, the LiDAR system provide a more accurate picture of a vehicles surrounding.
A fault-detection system for detecting fault in a LiDAR system mounted on a vehicle is provided. The LiDAR system is configured to provide point cloud data of an external environment of the vehicle in accordance with a LiDAR coordinate system. The fault-detection system includes processor-executable instructions which comprise instructions for: obtaining a vehicle speed; obtaining conversion parameters used for converting from the LiDAR coordinate system to a vehicle coordinate system; determining whether the vehicle speed exceeds a vehicle speed threshold; in accordance with a determination that the vehicle speed exceeds the vehicle speed threshold, obtaining a representation of a road surface plane expressed in the vehicle coordinate system; obtaining a representation of a native horizontal plane provided by the vehicle; and determining whether a fault in the LiDAR system has occurred based on the representation of the road surface plane and the representation of the native horizontal plane.
Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) systems use light pulses to create an image or point cloud of an environment. This LiDAR system and method having data encoding and compression improves the efficiency and communication reliability of point cloud data using data encoding and compression. After receiving return light pulse reflected by an object in the FOV, the system converts the detected optical signal data into raw data for the purpose of generating trigger data, encoder data, and time synchronization data from the raw data. The system further configures output data in a compressed format using the least amount of bits to carry the same amount of information defining point cloud data describing an external environment and the computational load is reduced. The compressed format comprises a data set for one baseline channel and differential channel data for one or more channels based upon the baseline channel.
A Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) system is disclosed. The LiDAR system comprises a light source configured to provide transmission light signals in a plurality of firing cycles. The LiDAR system comprises a detector configured to detect return signals formed based on the transmission light signals. The LiDAR system comprises an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) configured to obtain ADC data representing the detected return signals. The LiDAR system further comprises one or more processors and memory device, and processor-executable instructions stored in the memory device. The processor-executable instructions can cause the one or more processors to perform: determining a multiple-point time window using the ADC data; based on the multiple-point time window, determining an offset of the ADC data; at least partially correcting the ADC data based on the offset; and providing the corrected ADC data for constructing a point cloud representing an external environment of the LiDAR system.
A compact LiDAR device is provided. The compact LiDAR device includes a first mirror disposed to receive one or more light beams and a polygon mirror optically coupled to the first mirror. The polygon mirror comprises a plurality of reflective facets. For at least two of the plurality of reflective facets, each reflective facet is arranged such that: a first edge, a second edge, and a third edge of the reflective facet correspond to a first line, a second line, and a third line; the first line and the second line intersect to form a first internal angle of a plane comprising the reflective facet; and the first line and the third line intersect to form a second internal angle of the plane comprising the reflective facet. The first internal angle is an acute angle; and the second internal angle is an obtuse angle.
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
Lidar apparatus; Lidar sensors; optical sensors; electronic sensors for sensing, detecting objects, and mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the sensor; laser object detectors for use on vehicles and trains, and for infrastructure, safety, industrial, and security applications; laser scanners for use on vehicles and trains, and for infrastructure, safety, industrial, and security applications; lasers for measuring purposes; proximity sensors; electronic proximity sensors and switches; measuring apparatus, namely, laser distance meters; downloadable and recorded computer software for connecting, operating, and managing networked electronic proximity sensors and switches, lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing, detecting objects, and for capturing, analyzing, and mapping data of the three-dimensional space surrounding the sensor in the internet of things (IoT); Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure; Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for object detection and classification, and for data analysis; Downloadable and recorded software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for object detection and classification; Downloadable and recorded software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Downloadable and recorded software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment; chips [integrated circuits]; integrated circuits; integrated circuit cards [smart cards]. Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for object detection and classification, and for data analysis; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for object detection and classification; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment; scientific and technological services, namely, scientific research in the field of software for use in connection with sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; design of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; industrial research in the field of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar systems; Capturing, providing, and analyzing data in the field of 3D surveying; Mapping services for use in the detection, classification, and tracking of physical objects.
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
Lidar apparatus; electric sensors, namely, lidar sensors; optical sensors; electronic sensors for sensing, detecting objects, and mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the sensor; laser object detectors for use on vehicles and trains, and for infrastructure, safety, industrial, and security applications; laser scanners for use on vehicles and trains for infrastructure, safety, industrial, and security inspection; lasers for measuring purposes; proximity sensors; electronic proximity sensors and switches; measuring apparatus, namely, laser distance meters; downloadable and recorded computer software for connecting, operating, and managing networked electronic proximity sensors and switches, lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing, detecting objects, and for capturing, analyzing, and mapping data of the three-dimensional space surrounding the sensor in the internet of things (IoT); Downloadable and recorded software for detecting and classifying objects for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure; Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Downloadable and recorded software for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for detecting and classifying objects, and for data analysis; Downloadable and recorded software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for detecting and classifying objects; Downloadable and recorded software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Downloadable and recorded software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment; semiconductor chips; integrated circuits; integrated circuit cards Providing on-line non-downloadable software for detecting and classifying objects for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for detecting and classifying objects, and for data analysis; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for detecting and classifying objects; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment; scientific and technological services, namely, scientific research in the field of software for use in connection with sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; design of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; industrial research in the field of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar systems; Surveying services, namely, capturing, providing, and analyzing data in the field of 3D surveying; Mapping services for use in the detection, classification, and tracking of physical objects
54.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SCANNING A REGION OF INTEREST USING A LIGHT DETECTION AND RANGING SCANNER
A light detection and ranging (LiDAR) system for scanning and reconfiguring regions-of-interest (ROIs) is provided. The system comprises a LiDAR scanner configured to scan a current set of ROIs within a field-of-view (FOV), and a LiDAR perception sub-system coupled to the LiDAR scanner. The LIDAR perception sub-system includes instructions for: obtaining sensor data provided at least by the LiDAR scanner; deriving one or more current perceptions based on the sensor data; obtaining one or more predefined perception policies; determining one or more policy-based ROI candidates; determining whether an ROI reconfiguration request is provided, based on a vehicle perception decision; determining one or more request-based ROI candidates based on the ROI reconfiguration request; and determining a next set of ROIs for the LiDAR scanner to scan based on the current set of ROIs, and one or both of the one or more policy-based ROI candidates and the one or more request-based ROI candidates.
The present disclosure describes a system and method for coaxial LiDAR scanning. The system includes a first light source configured to provide first light pulses. The system also includes one or more beam steering apparatuses optically coupled to the first light source. Each beam steering apparatus comprises a rotatable concave reflector and a light beam steering device disposed at least partially within the rotatable concave reflector. The combination of the light beam steering device and the rotatable concave reflector, when moving with respect to each other, steers the one or more first light pulses both vertically and horizontally to illuminate an object within a field-of-view; obtain one or more first returning light pulses, the one or more first returning light pulses being generated based on the steered first light pulses illuminating an object within the field-of-view, and redirects the one or more first returning light pulses.
G01S 7/481 - Caractéristiques de structure, p. ex. agencements d'éléments optiques
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
G01S 17/42 - Mesure simultanée de la distance et d'autres coordonnées
G01S 17/88 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
The present disclosure describes a system and method for coaxial LiDAR scanning. The system includes a first light source configured to provide first light pulses. The system also includes one or more beam steering apparatuses optically coupled to the first light source. Each beam steering apparatus comprises a rotatable concave reflector and a light beam steering device disposed at least partially within the rotatable concave reflector. The combination of the light beam steering device and the rotatable concave reflector, when moving with respect to each other, steers the one or more first light pulses both vertically and horizontally to illuminate an object within a field-of-view; obtain one or more first returning light pulses, the one or more first returning light pulses being generated based on the steered first light pulses illuminating an object within the field-of-view, and redirects the one or more first returning light pulses.
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
G01S 17/88 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques
57.
2D scanning high precision LiDAR using combination of rotating concave mirror and beam steering devices
The present disclosure describes a system and method for coaxial LiDAR scanning. The system includes a first light source configured to provide first light pulses. The system also includes one or more beam steering apparatuses optically coupled to the first light source. Each beam steering apparatus comprises a rotatable concave reflector and a light beam steering device disposed at least partially within the rotatable concave reflector. The combination of the light beam steering device and the rotatable concave reflector, when moving with respect to each other, steers the one or more first light pulses both vertically and horizontally to illuminate an object within a field-of-view; obtain one or more first returning light pulses, the one or more first returning light pulses being generated based on the steered first light pulses illuminating an object within the field-of-view, and redirects the one or more first returning light pulses.
G01S 7/481 - Caractéristiques de structure, p. ex. agencements d'éléments optiques
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
G01S 17/42 - Mesure simultanée de la distance et d'autres coordonnées
G01S 17/88 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
The present disclosure describes a system and method for coaxial LiDAR scanning. The system includes a first light source configured to provide first light pulses. The system also includes one or more beam steering apparatuses optically coupled to the first light source. Each beam steering apparatus comprises a rotatable concave reflector and a light beam steering device disposed at least partially within the rotatable concave reflector. The combination of the light beam steering device and the rotatable concave reflector, when moving with respect to each other, steers the one or more first light pulses both vertically and horizontally to illuminate an object within a field-of-view; obtain one or more first returning light pulses, the one or more first returning light pulses being generated based on the steered first light pulses illuminating an object within the field-of-view, and redirects the one or more first returning light pulses.
G01S 17/42 - Mesure simultanée de la distance et d'autres coordonnées
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
G01S 17/88 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques
59.
Virtual windows for LiDAR safety systems and methods
Embodiments discussed herein refer to LiDAR systems and methods that use a virtual window to monitor for potentially unsafe operation of a laser. If an object is detected within the virtual window, the LiDAR system can be instructed to deactivate laser transmission.
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
60.
2D scanning high precision LiDAR using combination of rotating concave mirror and beam steering devices
The present disclosure describes a system and method for coaxial LiDAR scanning. The system includes a first light source configured to provide first light pulses. The system also includes one or more beam steering apparatuses optically coupled to the first light source. Each beam steering apparatus comprises a rotatable concave reflector and a light beam steering device disposed at least partially within the rotatable concave reflector. The combination of the light beam steering device and the rotatable concave reflector, when moving with respect to each other, steers the one or more first light pulses both vertically and horizontally to illuminate an object within a field-of-view; obtain one or more first returning light pulses, the one or more first returning light pulses being generated based on the steered first light pulses illuminating an object within the field-of-view, and redirects the one or more first returning light pulses.
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
G01S 17/88 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques
61.
Lidar systems and methods with beam steering and wide angle signal detection
Embodiments discussed herein refer to using LiDAR systems for steering consecutive light pulses using micro electro-mechanical system (MEMS) to illuminate objects in a field of view. Embodiments discussed herein also refer to using a multiple lens array to process returned light pulses.
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
A dual lens assembly positioned along an optical receive path within a LiDAR system is provided. The dual lens assembly is constructed to reduce a numerical aperture of a returned light pulse and reduce a walk-off error associated with one or more mirrors of the LiDAR system.
A motorized optical scanner device of a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) scanning system used in a motor vehicle is disclosed. The motorized optical scanner device comprises a glass-based optical reflector including a plurality of reflective surfaces and a flange. The rotatable optical reflector device further comprises an adjustment ring and a metal-based motor rotor body at least partially disposed in an inner opening of the glass-based optical reflector. The flange extends from an inner sidewall of the glass-based optical reflector towards the metal-based motor rotor body. The flange includes a first mounting surface that is in contact with the adjustment ring. The motorized optical scanner device further comprises a plurality of fastening mechanisms. The plurality of fastening mechanisms facilitates applying adjustment forces to the adjustment ring to reduce wobble associated with rotation of the glass-based optical reflector.
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure; Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for object detection and classification, and for data analysis; Downloadable and recorded software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for object detection and classification; Downloadable and recorded software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Downloadable and recorded software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment. Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for object detection and classification, and for data analysis; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for object detection and classification; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment; scientific and technological services, namely, scientific research in the field of software for use in connection with sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; design of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; industrial research in the field of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar systems; Capturing, providing, and analyzing data in the field of 3D surveying; Mapping services for use in the detection, classification, and tracking of physical objects.
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
Downloadable and recorded software for detecting and classifying objects for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure for vehicle perception and traffic management; Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for detecting and classifying objects, and for data analysis; Downloadable and recorded software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for detecting and classifying objects; Downloadable and recorded software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Downloadable and recorded software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment Providing on-line non-downloadable software for detecting and classifying objects for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure for vehicle perception and traffic management; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for detecting and classifying objects, and for data analysis; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for detecting and classifying objects; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment; scientific and technological services, namely, scientific research in the field of software for use in connection with sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; design of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; industrial research in the field of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar systems; Surveying services, namely, capturing, providing, and analyzing data in the field of 3D surveying; Mapping services for use in the detection, classification, and tracking of physical objects
66.
COMPACT LIDAR SYSTEMS FOR DETECTING OBJECTS IN BLIND-SPOT AREAS
A light detection and ranging (LiDAR) system for detecting objects in blind-spot areas is provided. The system comprises a housing and a scanning-based LiDAR assembly disposed in the housing. The scanning-based LiDAR assembly includes a first light source, a multi-facet polygon, collimation lenses, collection lenses, and a light detector. The first light source is configured to provide a plurality of light beams. The multi-facet polygon is rotatable to scan the plurality of light beams to illuminate an FOV. The multi-facet polygon and the first light source are vertically stacked. The collimation lenses are optically coupled to the first light source, and are configured to collimate the plurality of light beams provided by the first light source. The one or more collection lenses are configured to collect return light generated based on the illumination of the first FOV. The light detector is configured to receive the collected return light.
A light detection and ranging (LiDAR) system for detecting objects in blind-spot areas is provided. The system comprises a housing, a scanning-based LiDAR assembly disposed in the housing, and a non-scanning-based LiDAR assembly also disposed in the housing. The scanning-based LiDAR assembly is configured to scan a plurality of light beams to illuminate a first field-of-view (FOV). The non-scanning-based LiDAR assembly is configured to transmit laser light to illuminate a second FOV without scanning. The scanning-based LiDAR assembly's detection distance range extends beyond the detection distance range of the non-scanning-based LiDAR assembly.
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
G01S 7/481 - Caractéristiques de structure, p. ex. agencements d'éléments optiques
G01S 17/89 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour la cartographie ou l'imagerie
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
Embodiments discussed herein refer to LiDAR systems and methods that monitor for fault conditions that could potentially result in unsafe operation of a laser. The systems and methods can monitor for faulty conditions involving a transmitter system and movement of mirrors in a scanning system. When a fault condition is monitored, a shutdown command is sent to the transmitter system to cease laser transmission. The timing by which the laser should cease transmission is critical in preventing unsafe laser exposure, and embodiments discussed herein enable fault detection and laser shutoff to comply with laser safety standards.
Embodiments discussed herein refer to an integrated mirror motor galvanometer. The integrated mirror motor galvanometer repurposes a rotor of a motor to include at least one mirror face that redirects the light pulses interfacing therewith. This way, when the rotor oscillates along its range of rotation, the at least one mirror face also oscillates.
G02B 26/08 - Dispositifs ou dispositions optiques pour la commande de la lumière utilisant des éléments optiques mobiles ou déformables pour commander la direction de la lumière
G01S 17/08 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement
LiDAR system and methods discussed herein use a dispersion element or optic that has a refraction gradient that causes a light pulse to be redirected to a particular angle based on its wavelength. The dispersion element can be used to control a scanning path for light pulses being projected as part of the LiDAR's field of view. The dispersion element enables redirection of light pulses without requiring the physical movement of a medium such as mirror or other reflective surface, and in effect further enables at least portion of the LiDAR's field of view to be managed through solid state control. The solid state control can be performed by selectively adjusting the wavelength of the light pulses to control their projection along the scanning path.
A light detection and ranging system is provided. The system includes a Galvanometer mirror; a multiple-facet light steering device; and a controller device comprising one or more processors, memory, and processor-executable instructions stored in memory. The processor-executable instructions comprise instructions for receiving a first movement profile of the Galvanometer mirror of the LiDAR scanning system; receiving calibration data of the multiple-facet light steering device of the LiDAR scanning system; generating a second movement profile of the Galvanometer mirror based on the calibration data and the first movement profile; and providing one or more control signals to adjust movement of the Galvanometer mirror based on the second movement profile.
Embodiments discussed herein refer to LiDAR systems and methods that use a virtual window to monitor for potentially unsafe operation of a laser. If an object is detected within the virtual window, the LiDAR system can be instructed to deactivate laser transmission.
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
73.
Lidar detection systems and methods that use multi-plane mirrors
Embodiments discussed herein refer to LiDAR systems that use refraction compensation to improve transmission efficiency of light energy through transmissive mediums such as covers. Refraction compensation can be achieved using a cover or an anti-reflective coating.
H01S 3/10 - Commande de l'intensité, de la fréquence, de la phase, de la polarisation ou de la direction du rayonnement, p. ex. commutation, ouverture de porte, modulation ou démodulation
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
G01S 7/481 - Caractéristiques de structure, p. ex. agencements d'éléments optiques
LiDAR system and methods discussed herein use a dispersion element or optic that has a refraction gradient that causes a light pulse to be redirected to a particular angle based on its wavelength. The dispersion element can be used to control a scanning path for light pulses being projected as part of the LiDAR's field of view. The dispersion element enables redirection of light pulses without requiring the physical movement of a medium such as mirror or other reflective surface, and in effect further enables at least portion of the LiDAR's field of view to be managed through solid state control. The solid state control can be performed by selectively adjusting the wavelength of the light pulses to control their projection along the scanning path.
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure; Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for object detection and classification, and for data analysis; Downloadable and recorded software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for object detection and classification; Downloadable and recorded software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Downloadable and recorded software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment. Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for object detection and classification, and for data analysis; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for object detection and classification; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment; scientific and technological services, namely, scientific research in the field of software for use in connection with sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; design of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; industrial research in the field of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar systems; Capturing, providing, and analyzing data in the field of 3D surveying; Mapping services for use in the detection, classification, and tracking of physical objects.
A dual lens assembly positioned along an optical receive path within a LiDAR system is provided. The dual lens assembly is constructed to reduce a numerical aperture of a returned light pulse and reduce a walk-off error associated with one or more mirrors of the LiDAR system.
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
Downloadable and recorded software for detecting and classifying objects for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure for vehicle perception and traffic management; Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in connection with operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Downloadable and recorded software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for detecting and classifying objects, and for data analysis; Downloadable and recorded software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for detecting and classifying objects; Downloadable and recorded software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Downloadable and recorded software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment Providing on-line non-downloadable software for detecting and classifying objects for use in connection with intelligent infrastructure for vehicle perception and traffic management; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with lidar apparatus, optical sensors, laser object detectors and scanners, sensors for measuring purposes, and sensors for sensing and detecting objects and for mapping three-dimensional space surrounding the devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in connection with operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices and for analyzing the data provided by the sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for use in association with intelligent infrastructure systems for operating, managing, and calibrating sensors, scanners, and lidar devices, for detecting and classifying objects, and for data analysis; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for capturing, analyzing, and providing data in the field of 3D surveying and mapping and for detecting and classifying objects; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for analyzing and mapping data in the field of 3D surveying; Providing on-line non-downloadable software for sensing and perceiving the surrounding environment and providing, managing, and analyzing data on the surrounding environment; scientific and technological services, namely, scientific research in the field of software for use in connection with sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; design of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar devices; industrial research in the field of software for sensors, scanners, and lidar systems; Surveying services, namely, capturing, providing, and analyzing data in the field of 3D surveying; Mapping services for use in the detection, classification, and tracking of physical objects
79.
High resolution LiDAR using high frequency pulse firing
The present disclosure describes a system and method for LiDAR scanning. The system includes a light source configured to generate one or more light beams; and a beam steering apparatus optically coupled to the light source. The beam steering apparatus includes a first rotatable mirror and a second rotatable mirror. The first rotatable mirror and the second rotatable mirror, when moving with respect to each other, are configured to: steer the one or more light beams both vertically and horizontally to illuminate an object within a field-of-view; redirect one or more returning light pulses generated based on the illumination of the object; and a receiving optical system configured to receive the redirected returning light pulses.
Embodiments discussed herein refer to generating multiple laser beams from a single beam source. Single source multi-beam splitters can produce multiple beams from a single source, precisely control the exit angle of each beam, and ensure that each beam has substantially the same intensity.
An apparatus of a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) scanning system for at least partial integration with a vehicle is disclosed. The apparatus comprises an optical core assembly including an oscillating reflective element, an optical polygon element, and transmitting and collection optics. The apparatus includes a first exterior surface at least partially bounded by at least a first portion of a vehicle roof or at least a portion of a vehicle windshield. A surface profile of the first exterior surface aligns with a surface profile associated with at least one of the first portion of the vehicle roof or the portion of the vehicle windshield. A combination of the first exterior surface and the one or more additional exterior surfaces form a housing enclosing the optical core assembly including the oscillating reflective element, the optical polygon element, and the transmitting and collection optics.
A light detection and ranging (LiDAR) scanning system for at least partial integration with a vehicle roof is disclosed. The system comprises one or more optical core assemblies at least partially integrated with the vehicle roof and positioned proximate to one or more pillars of the vehicle roof. At least one optical core assembly comprises an oscillating reflective element, an optical polygon element, and transmitting and collection optics. At least a portion or a side surface of the at least one optical core assembly protrudes outside of a planar surface of the vehicle roof to facilitate scanning of light. The portion of the at least one optical core assembly that protrudes outside of the planar surface of the vehicle roof also protrudes in a vertical direction by an amount corresponding to a lateral arrangement of the optical polygon element, the oscillating reflective element, and the transmitting and collection optics.
A LiDAR system comprising a plurality of transmitter channels is provided. The LiDAR system comprises a light source providing a light beam and a collimation lens optically coupled to the light source to form a collimated light beam based on the light beam. The LiDAR system further comprises an optical beam splitter configured to form a plurality of output light beams based on the collimated light beam. The optical characteristics of the optical beam splitter are configured to facilitate forming the plurality of output light beams with substantially equal light intensity. The optical characteristics comprise one or more of transmission, reflection, and diffraction characteristics.
The present disclosure describes a system and method for coaxial LiDAR scanning. The system includes a first light source configured to provide first light pulses. The system also includes one or more beam steering apparatuses optically coupled to the first light source. Each beam steering apparatus comprises a rotatable concave reflector and a light beam steering device disposed at least partially within the rotatable concave reflector. The combination of the light beam steering device and the rotatable concave reflector, when moving with respect to each other, steers the one or more first light pulses both vertically and horizontally to illuminate an object within a field-of-view; obtain one or more first returning light pulses, the one or more first returning light pulses being generated based on the steered first light pulses illuminating an object within the field-of-view, and redirects the one or more first returning light pulses.
G01S 7/481 - Caractéristiques de structure, p. ex. agencements d'éléments optiques
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
G01S 17/42 - Mesure simultanée de la distance et d'autres coordonnées
G01S 17/88 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
A light detection and ranging (LiDAR) scanning system is provided. The system comprises a light steering device; a galvanometer mirror controllable to oscillate between two angular positions; and a plurality of transmitter channels configured to direct light to the galvanometer mirror. The plurality of transmitter channels are separated by an angular channel spacing from one another. The system further comprises a control device. Inside an end-of-travel region, the control device controls the galvanometer mirror to move based on a first mirror movement profile. Outside the end-of-travel region, the control device controls the galvanometer mirror to move based on a second mirror movement profile. The second mirror movement profile is different from the first mirror-movement profile. Movement of the galvanometer mirror based on the first mirror movement profile facilitates minimizing instances of scanlines corresponding to the end-of-travel region having a pitch exceeding a first target pitch.
G01S 7/481 - Caractéristiques de structure, p. ex. agencements d'éléments optiques
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
G01S 17/894 - Imagerie 3D avec mesure simultanée du temps de vol sur une matrice 2D de pixels récepteurs, p. ex. caméras à temps de vol ou lidar flash
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
An isolation system for a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) optical core assembly is provided. The LiDAR optical core assembly comprises a polygon-motor rotating element, an oscillating reflective element, and transmitting and collection optics. The isolation system comprises a polygon-motor base element coupled to the polygon-motor rotating element and a plurality of isolators substantially fixed to the polygon-motor base element and disposed relative to each other around a spatial location determined based on a center of gravity of at least one of the optical core assembly and the polygon-motor rotating element. The plurality of isolators is adapted to mitigate acoustic noise caused by at least the polygon-motor rotating element during operation of the optical core assembly.
G01S 17/88 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques
F16F 15/04 - Suppression des vibrations dans les systèmes non rotatifs, p. ex. dans des systèmes alternatifsSuppression des vibrations dans les systèmes rotatifs par l'utilisation d'organes ne se déplaçant pas avec le système rotatif utilisant des moyens élastiques
F16F 1/36 - Ressorts en matière plastique, p. ex. en caoutchoucRessorts faits d'un matériau à friction intérieure élevée
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
F16F 15/08 - Suppression des vibrations dans les systèmes non rotatifs, p. ex. dans des systèmes alternatifsSuppression des vibrations dans les systèmes rotatifs par l'utilisation d'organes ne se déplaçant pas avec le système rotatif utilisant des moyens élastiques avec ressorts en caoutchouc
F16F 1/373 - Ressorts en matière plastique, p. ex. en caoutchoucRessorts faits d'un matériau à friction intérieure élevée caractérisés par une forme particulière
A method for expanding a dynamic range of a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) system is provided. The method comprises transmitting, using a light source of the LiDAR system, a sequence of pulse signals consisting of two or more increasingly stronger pulse signals. The method further comprises receiving, using a light detector of the LiDAR system, one or more returned pulse signals corresponding to the transmitted sequence of pulse signals. The one or more returned pulse signals are above the noise level of the light detector. The method further comprises selecting a returned pulse signal within the dynamic range of the light detector, identifying a transmitted pulse signal of the transmitted sequence that corresponds to the selected returned pulse signal, and calculating a distance based on the selected returned signal and the identified transmitted signal.
G01S 7/481 - Caractéristiques de structure, p. ex. agencements d'éléments optiques
G02B 27/14 - Systèmes divisant ou combinant des faisceaux fonctionnant uniquement par réflexion
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
H01S 3/30 - Lasers, c.-à-d. dispositifs utilisant l'émission stimulée de rayonnement électromagnétique dans la gamme de l’infrarouge, du visible ou de l’ultraviolet utilisant des effets de diffusion, p. ex. l'effet Brillouin ou Raman stimulé
G01S 7/48 - Détails des systèmes correspondant aux groupes , , de systèmes selon le groupe
G01S 7/4865 - Mesure du temps de retard, p. ex. mesure du temps de vol ou de l'heure d'arrivée ou détermination de la position exacte d'un pic
G01S 7/499 - Détails des systèmes correspondant aux groupes , , de systèmes selon le groupe utilisant des effets de polarisation
H01S 3/00 - Lasers, c.-à-d. dispositifs utilisant l'émission stimulée de rayonnement électromagnétique dans la gamme de l’infrarouge, du visible ou de l’ultraviolet
Embodiments discussed herein refer to generating multiple laser beams from a single beam source. Single source multi-beam splitters can produce multiple beams from a single source, precisely control the exit angle of each beam, and ensure that each beam has substantially the same intensity.
A light detection and ranging (LiDAR) scanning system is disclosure. In one embodiment, the system includes an optical refraction device coupled to a first actuator configured to oscillate the optical refraction device. The system further includes a mirror optically coupled to the optical refraction device and coupled to a second actuator configured to oscillate the mirror. The system further includes one or more controllers communicatively coupled to the first and second actuators. The controllers are configured to control oscillation of the optical refraction device and oscillation of the mirror to steer one or more light beams both vertically and horizontally to illuminate one or more objects within a field-of-view, obtain return light, the return light being generated based on the steered one or more light beams illuminating the one or more objects within the field-of-view, and redirect the return light to a collection lens disposed in the system.
An embodiment of a motorized optical scanner of a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) system used in a motor vehicle is provided. The scanner includes a reflective piece including a substrate and a reflective surface. The scanner further includes a first shaft and a second shaft attached to a first end and a second end of the substrate respectively. The first end and the second end are opposite ends of the substrate along a longitudinal direction of the substrate. The scanner further includes a first bearing and a second bearing coupled to the first shaft and the second shaft respectively. The first bearing and the second bearing are substantially concentric. Movement of the second shaft causes the reflective surface to optically transmit one or more light beams to a field-of-view.
H02K 7/00 - Dispositions pour la mise en œuvre d'énergie mécanique associées structurellement aux machines dynamo-électriques, p. ex. association structurelle avec des moteurs mécaniques d'entraînement ou des machines dynamo-électriques auxiliaires
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
H02K 7/08 - Association structurelle avec des paliers
G01S 7/481 - Caractéristiques de structure, p. ex. agencements d'éléments optiques
G02B 7/182 - Montures, moyens de réglage ou raccords étanches à la lumière pour éléments optiques pour prismesMontures, moyens de réglage ou raccords étanches à la lumière pour éléments optiques pour miroirs pour miroirs
H02K 16/02 - Machines avec un stator et deux rotors
A compact LiDAR device is provided. The compact LiDAR device includes a first mirror disposed to receive one or more light beams and a polygon mirror optically coupled to the first mirror. The polygon mirror comprises a plurality of reflective facets. For at least two of the plurality of reflective facets, each reflective facet is arranged such that: a first edge, a second edge, and a third edge of the reflective facet correspond to a first line, a second line, and a third line; the first line and the second line intersect to form a first internal angle of a plane comprising the reflective facet; and the first line and the third line intersect to form a second internal angle of the plane comprising the reflective facet. The first internal angle is an acute angle; and the second internal angle is an obtuse angle.
A method for performing dynamic pulse control of a fiber laser in a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) scanning system is provided. The method comprises switching pump power that is deliverable to a first power amplification medium carrying seed laser light having a first triggering frequency; and adjusting the seed laser light to have a second triggering frequency different from the first triggering frequency. Switching of the pump power and adjusting of the seed laser light are timed to occur at different times having a first time difference.
A multiple stage optical amplification device in a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) scanning system is provided. The system comprises a first power amplification stage receiving seed laser light and outputting first amplified laser light; a second power amplification stage receiving the first amplified laser light and outputting a second amplified laser light; and a single optical power pump coupled to the second power amplification stage. The second power amplification stage is configured to amplify the first amplified laser light to generate the second amplified laser light. A first portion of pump power provided by the optical power pump is deliverable to the first power amplification stage to amplify the seed laser light.
A light detection and ranging system is provided. The system includes a Galvanometer mirror; a multiple-facet light steering device; and a controller device comprising one or more processors, memory, and processor-executable instructions stored in memory. The processor-executable instructions comprise instructions for receiving a first movement profile of the Galvanometer mirror of the LiDAR scanning system; receiving calibration data of the multiple-facet light steering device of the LiDAR scanning system; generating a second movement profile of the Galvanometer mirror based on the calibration data and the first movement profile; and providing one or more control signals to adjust movement of the Galvanometer mirror based on the second movement profile.
Embodiments discussed herein refer to LiDAR systems that accurately observe objects that are relatively close and objects that are relatively far using systems and methods that employ a variable time interval between successive laser pulses and one or more filters.
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
G01S 17/04 - Systèmes de détermination de la présence d'une cible
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
G01S 17/89 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour la cartographie ou l'imagerie
An embodiment of a light detection and ranging (LiDAR) system configured for performing far-distance road surface detection is provided. The LiDAR system comprises one or more processors; memory; and one or more programs stored in the memory. The one or more programs include instructions for obtaining LiDAR detection data samples and determining, based on a sliding time window, a maximum signal intensity associated with the LiDAR detection data samples. The one or more programs include further instructions for determining, based on the maximum signal intensity, whether the LiDAR detection data samples correspond to a far-distance road surface detection. In accordance with a determination that the LiDAR detection data samples correspond to a far-distance road surface detection, the one or more programs include further instructions for providing far-distance road surface detection data for controlling movement of a vehicle.
A LiDAR system is provided. The LiDAR system comprises a plurality of transmitter channels and a plurality of receiver channels. The plurality of transmitter channels are configured to transmit a plurality of transmission light beams to a field-of-view at a plurality of different transmission angles, which are then scanned to cover the entire field-of-view. The LiDAR system further comprises a collection lens disposed to receive and redirect return light obtained based on the plurality of transmission light beams illuminating one or more objects within the field-of-view. The LiDAR system further comprises a plurality of receiver channels optically coupled to the collection lens. Each of the receiver channels is optically aligned based on a transmission angle of a corresponding transmission light beam. The LiDAR system further comprises a plurality of detector assemblies optically coupled to the plurality of receiver channels.
An embodiment of a motorized optical scanner of a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) system used in a motor vehicle is provided. The scanner includes a reflective piece including a substrate and a reflective surface. The scanner further includes a first shaft and a second shaft attached to a first end and a second end of the substrate respectively. The first end and the second end are opposite ends of the substrate along a longitudinal direction of the substrate. The scanner further includes a first bearing and a second bearing coupled to the first shaft and the second shaft respectively. The first bearing and the second bearing are substantially concentric. Movement of the second shaft causes the reflective surface to optically transmit one or more light beams to a field-of-view.
H02K 16/02 - Machines avec un stator et deux rotors
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
H02K 7/00 - Dispositions pour la mise en œuvre d'énergie mécanique associées structurellement aux machines dynamo-électriques, p. ex. association structurelle avec des moteurs mécaniques d'entraînement ou des machines dynamo-électriques auxiliaires
G01S 7/481 - Caractéristiques de structure, p. ex. agencements d'éléments optiques
G02B 7/182 - Montures, moyens de réglage ou raccords étanches à la lumière pour éléments optiques pour prismesMontures, moyens de réglage ou raccords étanches à la lumière pour éléments optiques pour miroirs pour miroirs
H02K 7/08 - Association structurelle avec des paliers
A rotatable optical reflector device of a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) scanning system used in a motor vehicle is disclosed. The rotatable optical reflector device comprises a glass-based optical reflector including a plurality of reflective surfaces and a flange. The rotatable optical reflector device further comprises a metal-based motor rotor body at least partially disposed in an inner opening of the glass-based optical reflector. The rotatable optical reflector device further comprises an elastomer piece having a first surface and a second surface. The first surface of the elastomer piece is in contact with a second mounting surface of the flange. The rotatable optical reflector device further comprises a clamping mechanism compressing the elastomer piece at the second surface of the elastomer piece, wherein movement of the metal-based motor rotor body causes the glass-based optical reflector to optically scan light in a field-of-view of the LiDAR scanning system.
G01S 7/481 - Caractéristiques de structure, p. ex. agencements d'éléments optiques
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
G01S 17/931 - Systèmes lidar, spécialement adaptés pour des applications spécifiques pour prévenir les collisions de véhicules terrestres
100.
LiDAR systems and methods for focusing on ranges of interest
G01S 7/481 - Caractéristiques de structure, p. ex. agencements d'éléments optiques
G01S 17/10 - Systèmes déterminant les données relatives à la position d'une cible pour mesurer la distance uniquement utilisant la transmission d'ondes à modulation d'impulsion interrompues
G02B 26/08 - Dispositifs ou dispositions optiques pour la commande de la lumière utilisant des éléments optiques mobiles ou déformables pour commander la direction de la lumière
