LiDAR demonstration using an InP-based optical phased array with a 3D-printed beam-shaping element

Area of Science:

• Photonics
• Integrated Optics
• LiDAR Technology

Background:

• Optical phased arrays (OPAs) are crucial for beam steering in photonic integrated circuits (PICs).
• Existing OPAs often face limitations in beam shaping and integration with ranging functionalities.
• Indium Phosphide (InP) is a key material for high-performance photonic devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate an InP-based OPA integrated with semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs) and p-i-n phase shifters.
• To integrate 3D-printed optical elements for beam shaping and surface-normal redirection.
• To showcase the OPA's capability in a light-detection-and-ranging (LiDAR) experiment combined with optical ranging.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of an InP-based OPA chip featuring integrated SOAs and p-i-n phase shifters.
• Attachment of 3D-printed optical elements to the PIC facet for beam manipulation.
• Integration of the OPA with a receiver for a LiDAR system setup.
• Performance evaluation through laboratory ranging experiments.

Main Results:

• Successful demonstration of an InP-based OPA with integrated beam steering and optical ranging.
• Effective beam shaping and redirection to the surface-normal of the PIC using 3D-printed optics.
• Viability of the OPA confirmed through successful LiDAR and ranging experiments.

Conclusions:

• This work represents the first demonstration of an InP-based OPA capable of simultaneous optical ranging and beam steering.
• The integrated approach offers a promising pathway for advanced LiDAR systems.
• The combination of InP photonics and 3D-printed optics enables novel functionalities in integrated optical systems.