Detailed study of laser diode array collimation based on a tolerancing analysis

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Optical Engineering
• LiDAR Technology

Background:

• LiDAR systems require precise optical alignment for optimal performance.
• Collimation lenses are critical components in LiDAR emitters, influencing beam quality and throughput.
• Understanding misalignment effects is crucial for manufacturing and reliability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of collimation lens misalignments on LiDAR emitter performance criteria.
• To establish an alignment concept for the initial section of a LiDAR emitter.
• To identify critical misalignment factors and propose a practical alignment solution.

Main Methods:

• Raytracing simulations were employed to model the optical system.
• Performance criteria, including minimum throughput and maximum beam height, were defined and analyzed.
• Defined misalignments were systematically introduced to study their effects.

Main Results:

• The study quantified the impact of various misalignments on LiDAR performance.
• Rotation of the acylinder around the optical axis was identified as the most sensitive parameter.
• The analysis determined whether passive or active alignment is necessary for each misalignment.

Conclusions:

• A practical alignment procedure was developed based on tolerancing analysis.
• The findings provide insights into critical misalignment factors for micro-optical systems.
• This work can lead to reduced manufacturing costs and enhanced reliability of LiDAR systems.