Fast-running beamforming algorithm for optical phased array beam scanners comprised of polymeric waveguide devices.

Area of Science:

• Photonics and Optical Engineering
• LiDAR Technology
• Waveguide Manufacturing

Background:

• Phase errors in optical phased arrays (OPAs) are an inherent challenge in beam scanning LiDAR, stemming from manufacturing imperfections.
• These errors can significantly impact the performance and accuracy of LiDAR systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a fast-running beamforming algorithm to compensate for phase errors in OPAs.
• To enable independent control of phase modulators in polymer waveguide OPAs by mitigating thermal crosstalk.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of a beamforming algorithm based on the rotating element vector method.
• Utilizing least square approximation to minimize phase adjustments for a 32-channel polymer waveguide OPA device.

Main Results:

• The proposed algorithm effectively compensates for phase errors in OPAs.
• Demonstrated a significant reduction in the number of phase adjustments required for beamforming.
• Achieved a beamforming time of 16 seconds for a 32-channel polymer waveguide OPA.

Conclusions:

• The developed algorithm offers a fast and effective solution for phase error compensation in OPA-based LiDAR.
• The method is particularly suitable for polymer waveguide OPAs due to suppressed thermal crosstalk.
• This advancement contributes to more accurate and efficient beam scanning LiDAR systems.