In automotive applications of the LiDAR technology, traditionally the LiDAR is mounted atop of the vehicle. This arrangement has been very functional, but produced a very odd-looking vehicle. In addition, this may cause problems like close-range dead angular zones, exposure to dust and precipitation, and hard-to-reach electrical wiring of the LiDAR sensor. In contrast, integrating the LiDAR sensor into the headlight system would solve these issues [1]. Based on a smart algorithm that combines signals from LiDAR and a CCD image, a smart ON/OFF switching of the laser headlights was demonstrated [1]. However, the integration of LiDAR and CCD required many optical components resulting in complicated assembly and high cost. This paper presents a patent pending optical design of a LiDAR system integrated together with an intelligent headlight system using a single DMD. This integrated design uses the capability of the DMD in both the +12° and -12° positions. The micro-mirrors will be switched between +12° and -12° positions without stopping at the 0° position for all its functions. The headlight light source is placed at the -24° position and the LiDAR detector is placed at the +24° position. Pulsed laser will be used for broad area illuminations for LiDAR operations. The targets in front of vehicle will be scanned and the headlight can be programmed to illuminate the selected areas.
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