LiDAR Innovations: Insights from a Patent and Scientometric Analysis

Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensors are critical for autonomous vehicles that require unparalleled depth sensing. However, traditional LiDAR designs face significant challenges, including high costs and bulky configurations, limiting scalability and mass-market adoption. By uniquely combining patent and scientometric analysis, this study screened 188 recent LiDAR patents from a dataset of more than two million patents, uncovering strategies to enhance capability and reduce production costs. Key findings highlight the growing emphasis on solid-state architectures, modular designs, and integrated manufacturing processes as pathways to scalable and efficient LiDAR solutions. These insights bridge the gap between scientific advancements and practical implementation, providing stakeholders with a clear understanding of the technological landscape and emerging trends. By identifying future directions and actionable opportunities, this work supports the development of next-generation LiDAR systems, fostering innovation and enabling broader adoption across autonomous vehicles and other sectors.