Abstract: Method and apparatus for evaluating targets detected by an active light detection and ranging (LiDAR) system. A potential target and associated range information are obtained during an initial scan. An external sensor is initialized to sense additional information associated with the potential target. A criteria based learning circuit combines the external information from the external sensor with information from a subsequent scan to classify the potential target as a true detection condition in which a physical element is present down range from the LiDAR system, or a false positive condition where a physical element is not present down range from the LiDAR system as described by the detected range information. The external sensor may take the form of a camera. The external sensor may scan a larger surrounding area adjacent the detected potential target. Only some targets identified by the LiDAR system may be selected for evaluation using predetermined criteria.

Abstract: A light detection and ranging system can have a sun module connected to an optical assembly configured to detect downrange targets by emitting a light beam and detecting returning photons. The controller having an inertial measurement circuit and a positioning circuit collectively configured to identify a location of a sun and ignore photons received from the sun's location.

Abstract: A light detection and ranging system can have an occlusion module connected to a light emitter and light detector with the light emitter and light detector each positioned behind a front glass. The occlusion module can be configured to generate an occlusion strategy in response to a real-time map of the front glass with the occlusion strategy populated with at least one operational alteration to correct for the presence of foreign matter indicated by the map of the front glass.