Aligning optical components in LIDAR systems
US10295660B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 13, 2017 |
| Grant date | May 21, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 11, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B7/005
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Techniques are described for aligning optical components within a LIDAR assembly. The techniques may be performed to align the optical components during manufacturing or assembly of the LIDAR assembly. For example, a first optical element (e.g., one of a light source or light sensor) may be installed in the LIDAR assembly. An optimal alignment for a second optical element (e.g., the other of the light source or light sensor) may be determined and the second optical element may be installed at the optimal alignment. The optimal alignment for the second optical element may be determined based on detected signals, for example, which may correspond to an alignment resulting in a strongest return signal, highest quality return signal, and/or minimal interference. Additionally, or alternatively, techniques may be used to align optical components at runtime by using an actuator to move one or more components of the LIDAR assembly during operation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.