Laser Beam Steering via Refractive Index Conversion Layer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser beam steering technologies face challenges with large device volumes, increased costs, and noise issues due to mechanical components, and limitations in applying micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) structures, particularly in steering laser beams efficiently and accurately.
Innovation Solution
A laser beam steering device with a refractive index conversion layer that changes in response to electrical signals, embedded antenna patterns, and a metal mirror layer, arranged in a two-dimensional configuration, allowing for efficient phase modulation and beam steering with reduced noise and increased stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical rotation or MEMS structure is used to steer laser beam, then beam steering function is achieved, but device volume increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical rotation systems and MEMS structures with a phase modulation device that uses optical interference principles. The device modulates phases of laser beams from multiple pixels or waveguides to achieve beam steering without any moving mechanical parts, thereby eliminating the need for motors or MEMS components and significantly reducing device volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the phase parameter of laser beams through electrical or thermal control of unit cells or waveguides. By modulating the phase of individual beams and combining them through interference, the system achieves beam steering functionality without mechanical movement, thus reducing device volume while maintaining steering capability.
2Reliability
If motor is applied to mechanically drive laser beam, then beam steering is achieved, but noise occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates motors and mechanical drive systems by using optical phase modulation. The beam steering is achieved through electrical or thermal control of phase elements, which generates no mechanical noise. This substitution of mechanical systems with field-based control (electrical/thermal) directly resolves the noise issue while preserving steering functionality.
3Reliability
If MEMS structure is applied, then beam steering is achieved, but application to various parts is limited due to vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces MEMS structures with a phase modulation system that uses electrical or thermal control. This eliminates vibrations inherent in MEMS devices, allowing the system to be applied in various environments including those with gravity or acceleration variations. The field-based control mechanism provides broader adaptability across different applications and platforms.
4Reliability
If conventional laser beam steering method is used, then beam steering is achieved, but phase change requires high driving voltage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs oxide semiconductor materials (such as ITO, IZO, GIZO, AZO, GZO, or ZnO) in the refractive index conversion layer. These materials enable significant phase changes at low driving voltages due to their unique electrical and optical properties. By changing the carrier concentration in the oxide semiconductor through low-voltage electrical signals, the refractive index is modulated, achieving efficient phase modulation without requiring high driving voltages.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables precise laser beam steering with a high phase change at low driving voltages, improving stability and reducing the device's size and cost, while minimizing noise and vibrations.
Implementation Method 1
a refractive index conversion layer having a refractive index that changes according to an electrical signal applied thereto
Implementation Method 2
a metal mirror layer provided under the lower surface of the refractive index conversion layer and configured to reflect the laser beam
Data Source
AI summary
A laser beam phase-modulation device, a laser beam steering device, and a laser beam steering system including the same are provided. The laser beam phase-modulation device includes a refractive index conversion layer having a refractive index that is changed according to an electrical signal applied thereto, the refractive index conversion layer including an upper surface on which the laser beam is incident and a lower surface opposite the upper surface, at least one antenna pattern embedded in the upper surface of the refractive index conversion layer, and a metal mirror layer provided under the lower surface of the refractive index conversion layer and configured to reflect the laser beam.