Optical Phased Array Steering with Dispersive Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical phased arrays (OPAs) face challenges in efficiently steering optical beams in multiple axes without mechanical components, particularly in achieving precise control over beam collimation and steering in both the X-Z and Y-Z planes, which is crucial for applications like LiDAR and free space optical communication systems.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a photonic integrated circuit with an optical phased array, a focusing element, and a steering element, where the steering element can be a dispersive or refractive component, such as a diffractive element or prism, allows for beam collimation and steering in one plane while phase shifts in the OPA handle steering in a perpendicular plane, enabling non-mechanical beam steering and expanded field of view through the use of multiple OPAs on pedestals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an optical phased array uses only phase shifters for beam steering, then steering in one axis is achieved, but steering in the perpendicular axis cannot be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines phase shifters for electronic beam steering in one axis with a mechanical scanning mirror for steering in the perpendicular axis. This hybrid approach merges electronic and mechanical steering mechanisms to achieve two-dimensional beam control, resolving the limitation of single-axis steering while avoiding the complexity of fully mechanical phased array systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a scanning mirror as an intermediary component between the optical phased array and the target. This mirror acts as a mediator that redirects the beam in the perpendicular axis, allowing the OPA to maintain its simple linear emitter structure while achieving comprehensive two-axis steering capability through the intermediary reflective element.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical components are used for multi-axis beam steering, then steering capability is improved, but system complexity and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the simple electronic phase-shifting mechanism of OPAs with a single mechanical scanning mirror, creating a hybrid system that achieves multi-axis steering without requiring complex mechanical structures. This combination maintains the advantages of both electronic and mechanical steering while minimizing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces what would otherwise require a fully mechanical phased array system with a hybrid approach where electronic phase shifters handle one axis of steering and a simple mechanical mirror handles the perpendicular axis. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity compared to a fully mechanical system while achieving the same multi-axis steering capability.
3Device complexity
If a linear distribution of emitter elements is used, then device simplicity is maintained, but beam steering in both axes cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a scanning mirror as an intermediary element that enables the linear emitter array to achieve two-dimensional beam steering. The mirror redirects the beam in the perpendicular axis, allowing the simple linear OPA structure to gain enhanced adaptability and steering range without changing its fundamental geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a second dimension of beam control by introducing the scanning mirror, which operates in the axis perpendicular to the linear emitter distribution. This allows the system to achieve two-dimensional steering capability while maintaining the simplicity of the one-dimensional linear emitter array structure.
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
This configuration provides a compact and efficient mechanism for optical beam steering and focusing, enhancing the capabilities of OPA-based transceivers for LiDAR and communication systems by allowing precise control over beam direction and collimation, thereby improving the performance and flexibility of optical systems.
Implementation Method 1
Steering about a first axis perpendicular to the linear distribution can be provided by changing the relative phase shifts in phase shifters feeding each of the emitter elements
Implementation Method 2
The steering element comprises a dispersive element
Implementation Method 3
The dispersive element comprises a diffractive element
Implementation Method 4
The dispersive element comprises a refractive element
Implementation Method 5
The focusing element comprises a lens
Implementation Method 6
The reflective surface is shaped to substantially collimate the optical beam
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus includes: an optical phased array (e.g., on a photonic integrated circuit), a focusing element, which can be at a fixed position relative to the optical phased array and configured to receive an optical beam from the optical phased array, and a steering element, which can be at a fixed position relative to the focusing element and configured to transmit the optical beam received from the focusing element. In some implementations, at least one of the focusing element or the steering element is externally coupled to the photonic integrated circuit.