Lens-Based Integrated 2D Beam Steering Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current beam steering devices for laser radar are limited by high power consumption, complex control requirements, and inability to perform two-dimensional scanning without changing the wavelength of light, particularly in all-solid-state solutions.
Innovation Solution
An integrated two-dimensional beam steering device based on a lens, comprising a substrate with an input waveguide, connecting waveguide, 1×N optical switch, output waveguides, transmitting units, and a controller, where the optical switch is controlled electrically to direct light beams through a lens for beam deflection, allowing two-dimensional scanning without wavelength change.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical rotation beam steering device is used, then beam steering function is achieved, but the device is large in size, high in power consumption, and susceptible to vibration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical rotation system with an all-solid-state beam steering device that uses optical phase modulation. Instead of physically rotating mirrors or lenses, the invention uses integrated optical components and phase shifters to steer beams electronically, eliminating mechanical parts entirely. This substitution resolves the contradiction by providing vibration resistance while reducing power consumption.
2Power
If liquid crystal phase shifter is used for beam steering, then phase control is achieved, but the scanning speed is slow and it cannot withstand high input optical power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from liquid crystal to semiconductor materials for the phase shifters. Semiconductor-based phase shifters have faster response times (resolving the speed issue) and can withstand higher optical power densities. The invention uses integrated semiconductor optical amplifiers and phase modulators that operate at higher speeds and power levels compared to liquid crystal technologies.
3Power
If MEMS mirror is used for beam steering, then beam steering is achieved, but it cannot withstand high input optical power
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces MEMS mechanical mirrors with integrated optical phase modulators. Instead of using mechanical mirror deflection, the invention uses electro-optic or thermo-optic phase modulation in integrated waveguides to achieve beam steering. This eliminates the mechanical components that limit power handling while reducing control complexity through electronic phase control.
4Ease of operation
If integrated optical phased array is used, then beam steering is achieved, but the control complexity and power consumption are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical phased array into multiple independent optical paths, each with its own phase shifter and amplifier. This segmentation allows for localized control and reduces the overall control complexity by dividing the system into manageable modules. Each segment can be controlled independently, reducing the total power consumption compared to controlling all elements simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements sequential activation of different optical paths rather than simultaneous operation of all elements. By activating only the necessary optical paths for the current scanning position, the system reduces power consumption and control complexity. This periodic or sequential operation模式 allows the same hardware to perform two-dimensional scanning through time-multiplexed activation of different waveguide paths.
5Adaptability or versatility
If integrated planar lens and grating emission is used, then one-dimensional scanning is achieved, but two-dimensional scanning cannot be realized without changing wavelength
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a second dimension to the scanning capability by introducing multiple input waveguides with different input angles into the planar lens. While the original planar lens provided one-dimensional scanning through lateral displacement, this invention uses angular diversity of multiple waveguides to achieve two-dimensional scanning. Each waveguide inputs light at a specific angle, and by switching between waveguides, the system achieves scanning in both lateral and angular dimensions without wavelength changes.
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 provides a reliable, low-power, and low-complexity beam steering system with high power capacity, capable of two-dimensional scanning without wavelength change, using an all-solid-state structure without mechanical parts and reduced material integration, leading to lower control complexity and power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a lens, and a controller, where N is a positive integer (N≥2)... The lens is located directly above the N transmitting units... The light beams output by the N transmitting units are all output through the lens
Data Source
AI summary
A lens-based integrated two-dimensional beam steering device comprising a substrate, an input waveguide, a connecting waveguide, a 1×N optical switch, an electrical interface for the switch, N output waveguides of the switch, N transmitting units, a lens and a controller. The device of the present invention realizes two-dimensional beam steering and has the characteristics of large power capacity, low control complexity, and low electric power consumption.