US20250334674
2025-10-30
Physics
G01S7/4802
The patent application introduces a method and system for long-range recognition of signs or surfaces using LIDAR technology. This involves emitting light pulses at specific non-visible wavelengths and receiving the reflected pulses to generate a point cloud. The point cloud helps identify patterns on the object's surface by detecting areas of varying reflectivity, which are used to decode embedded data. This technology is particularly useful in autonomous driving systems and advanced driver assistance systems for detecting and interpreting road signs and other infrastructure.
The system comprises a distance sensor with an emitter and a receiver, controlled by a microcontroller. The emitter sends out light pulses in the non-visible spectrum, while the receiver captures the reflected pulses from objects within its line of sight. By processing these reflections, the system generates a point cloud that reveals patterns indicative of embedded data on the object's surface. This data can include information about road infrastructure, vehicle types, or other relevant details, enhancing the vehicle's understanding of its environment.
The system is designed to handle multiple sets of reflected light pulses, aligning them to create a comprehensive temporal-spatial point cloud fusion. It can correlate embedded data with information stored in cloud databases or local look-up tables, providing real-time insights to drivers through various interfaces like display screens or augmented reality devices. This integration ensures that drivers receive accurate, timely information about their surroundings.
This technology is applicable to various objects beyond road signs, such as clothing or vehicles, by embedding digital information in geometric regions on their surfaces. By using chemical treatments or retroreflectors, these regions reflect specific wavelengths that are invisible to the human eye but detectable by LIDAR sensors. This approach reduces visual clutter for drivers while providing essential data about road conditions, enhancing safety and navigation.
In practice, vehicles equipped with LIDAR or SWIR sensors can capture detailed information from signs or surfaces they encounter. The embedded data may include error detection codes to ensure accuracy during decoding. The technology supports diverse information formats beyond standard QR codes, adapting to various infrared wavelengths. By leveraging specific chemical coatings, this system optimizes reflectivity at targeted wavelengths, facilitating precise data extraction and contributing to more informed driving decisions.