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Wide field of view optical phased array with a high-directionality antenna
Optics Express
|June 29, 2023
Summary
This study introduces a novel dual-layer antenna for optical phased array (OPA) Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) systems. The new antenna design significantly reduces loss and expands the alias-free steering range for improved LiDAR performance.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Electrical Engineering
- Robotics and Autonomous Systems
Background:
- Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) is crucial for data acquisition in automotive, robotics, and aerospace.
- Optical Phased Arrays (OPAs) offer a promising LiDAR solution but face challenges with signal loss and limited alias-free steering range.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the limitations of current OPA LiDAR technology.
- To enhance antenna directionality and power efficiency.
- To expand the alias-free steering range of OPA systems.
Main Methods:
- Proposed a novel dual-layer antenna design.
- Achieved peak directionality exceeding 92% with the dual-layer antenna.
- Designed and fabricated a 256-channel non-uniform OPA based on the proposed antenna.
Main Results:
- The dual-layer antenna effectively mitigated antenna loss and improved power efficiency.
- The fabricated 256-channel OPA demonstrated a 150° alias-free steering range.
- The OPA system achieved high directionality, crucial for LiDAR applications.
Conclusions:
- The proposed dual-layer antenna is a significant advancement for OPA LiDAR technology.
- This innovation overcomes key limitations, paving the way for more efficient and capable LiDAR systems.
- The enhanced steering range and reduced loss enable broader applications in autonomous systems.
