Aurora Innovation. has been granted a patent for a LIDAR system that includes a laser, an amplifier for processing multiple optical signals, and an optical network. This network generates a combined optical signal by splitting amplified signals, with the amplitude reflecting the combined inputs. GlobalData’s report on Aurora Innovation gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.

According to GlobalData’s company profile on Aurora Innovation, Autonomous freight management was a key innovation area identified from patents. Aurora Innovation's grant share as of June 2024 was 49%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.

Lidar system with laser, amplifier, and optical network

Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Credit: Aurora Innovation Inc

The granted patent US11994629B2 describes a sophisticated light detection and ranging (LIDAR) system designed to enhance the functionality of autonomous vehicles. Central to this system is a laser that emits a beam, which generates multiple optical signals associated with various phases. An amplifier processes these signals, producing amplified optical signals that are then managed by an optical network. This network utilizes beam splitters to combine the amplified signals into a single output, with the amplitude of this combined signal reflecting the collective strength of the individual signals. The system is structured to accommodate multiple outputs, with the design allowing for a minimum of four amplified optical signals, thereby enhancing the system's detection capabilities.

In addition to the LIDAR system, the patent outlines an autonomous vehicle control system that integrates the LIDAR technology. This system employs processors to control the laser, amplifier, and optical network, ultimately using the combined optical signal to inform vehicle operations, such as steering and braking. The architecture includes multiple sub-amplifiers and beam splitters, ensuring that each optical signal is effectively processed and utilized. The claims emphasize the distinct phases of the optical signals and the correspondence between the number of outputs and sub-amplifiers, indicating a well-coordinated system designed for precise vehicle control based on real-time environmental data.

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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.