Velodyne LiDAR has patented an integrated LIDAR device with components like an illumination source, detector, and driver on a single circuit board. The device uses a beam splitter to separate return and measurement beams sharing a common optical path, improving efficiency. GlobalData’s report on Velodyne LiDAR gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.

According to GlobalData’s company profile on Velodyne LiDAR, Lidar-assisted navigation was a key innovation area identified from patents. Velodyne LiDAR's grant share as of February 2024 was 42%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.

Integrated lidar device with common optical path and beam splitter

Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Credit: Velodyne LiDAR Inc

A recently granted patent (Publication Number: US11860280B2) discloses an integrated Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) device that combines various components to enable accurate distance measurement. The device includes an illumination source, detector, illumination driver, beam splitter, and collimating optical element, all mounted on a substrate. The illumination source generates a measurement beam of light, while the detector detects the return beam of light and generates an output signal. The return beam and measurement beam share a common optical path within the device. Additionally, the device features an amplifier, analog to digital converter, and processor for signal processing to determine the time of flight of the measurement beam in the environment.

Furthermore, the patent describes a method for operating the integrated LIDAR device, involving generating and detecting light beams, separating the return beam, and collimating the measurement beam. The method includes amplifying and converting the output signal to a digital signal for further processing. Various configurations of the beam splitter, detector, and illumination source are detailed, highlighting the device's versatility and potential applications. The patent also mentions an integrated LIDAR system with a rotatable board to enhance the device's functionality. Overall, the patent showcases a comprehensive approach to LIDAR technology, offering a compact and efficient solution for distance measurement in various environments.

To know more about GlobalData’s detailed insights on Velodyne LiDAR, buy the report here.

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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.