Patent ID: 11592533

Abstract:
A Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) module for a vehicle can include a semiconductor integrated circuit with a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) and a substrate, the MEMS comprising a micro-mirror assembly including a mirror and a gimbal structure. The gimbal can be configured concentrically around and coplanar with the mirror. When rotated, the gimbal drives the mirror to oscillate at or near a resonant frequency and is coupled to the mirror via mirror-gimbal connectors. A support structure can be coupled to a backside of the mirror and gimbal structures and can increase the stiffness of the mirror to help the mirror better resist dynamic deformation. To limit the added rotational moment of inertia, the support structure can be etched to form a matrix of cells (e.g., formed by a mesh of circumferential and radial ridges) such that up to approximately 90% of the support structure material forming the support structure is removed.