Optical Phased Array LIDAR with Luneburg Lens Receiver
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current LIDAR systems face limitations in measurable range due to the tradeoff between field of view (FOV) and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), which restricts their effectiveness for long-range imaging and missile detection.
Innovation Solution
The proposed LIDAR system combines an optical phased array transmitter with a spherically shift invariant receiver, utilizing a photonic bandgap structure for the transmitter and a macroscopic lens array with a radially symmetrical Luneburg type lens for the receiver, enabling full 360-degree LIDAR imaging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a narrow field of view is used, then signal-to-noise ratio is improved, but the system requires physical movement mechanisms (gimbal) to scan large areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical gimbal system with an optical phased array that uses electronic phase control to steer the beam. Instead of physically moving the detector or lens, the system changes the phase of light at different aperture locations to electronically scan the field of view, eliminating moving parts while maintaining narrow FOV benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic beam steering through real-time phase modulation of the optical elements in the array. The system can rapidly change the direction of the narrow beam electronically without mechanical movement, enabling fast scanning capabilities while maintaining the SNR advantages of a narrow FOV
2Adaptability or versatility
If a wide field of view is used, then the system can cover large areas, but signal-to-noise ratio deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The optical phased array enables dynamic adjustment of the beam direction and field of view coverage. The system can electronically sweep across wide areas by modulating the phase of individual elements, providing wide area coverage while maintaining a narrow instantaneous FOV that preserves SNR
3Length of stationary object
If physical movement mechanisms are added to extend measurable range, then range capability is improved, but system reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates mechanical gimbal systems entirely, replacing them with an optical phased array that achieves range extension through electronic beam steering and focusing. This substitution removes moving parts that would degrade over time, significantly improving system reliability and mean time between failures while maintaining the ability to scan large areas
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 allows for improved SNR and extended range capabilities, eliminating the need for physical movement of the imaging system and reducing the complexity and cost associated with gimbal systems.
Implementation Method 1
By varying the temperature of the waveguide its phase delay can be manipulated. If used in an array a scanned beam can be created.
Implementation Method 2
a spherically shift invariant receiver comprising a macroscopic lens array with a radially symmetrical Luneburg type lens to bring light from any direction into focus at its center
Implementation Method 3
If a vertical temperature distribution is applied, the radiation pattern is scanned up. If a horizontal temperature distribution is applied, the radiation pattern is scanned to the left.
Data Source
AI summary
A LIDAR system architecture which transmits light via an optical phased array and receives the reflected signal with a spherically shift invariant sensor. Phased arrays offer the ability to quickly scan a desired area by manipulating the electrical, or in this case-thermal, properties of an array of sensors. Similarly spherically shift invariant systems offer the ability to bring light into focus at the same location regardless of its angle of arrival.