Optical Switch Fabric for Multi-Direction LIDAR Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing LIDAR devices with moving parts are costly and complex, limiting their scalability and resolution in high-resolution applications, and the incorporation of lenses and single output couplers in prior art optical beam-steering devices restricts their effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
An optical beam-steering apparatus using an optical switch fabric to route light to multiple surface/edge couplers, which are configured to emit light in different directions through spatial orientation, grating period configuration, or the addition of beam deflectors, allowing for controllable and scalable LIDAR scanning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single output coupler with lens is used in prior art optical beam-steering devices, then the device structure is simplified, but the scalability and resolution are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single output coupler into multiple output couplers (first output coupler, second output coupler, etc.), each capable of emitting light in different directions. This segmentation allows the system to achieve higher resolution and scanning capability while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure, as each coupler can be a basic optical element rather than a complex single-element design.
2Ease of operation
If moving parts are used in LIDAR devices for beam steering, then the scanning capability is achieved, but the cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical moving parts with a static optical system comprising multiple output couplers and an optical switching network. The beam steering function is achieved by electronically controlling the optical switch to route light to different couplers, eliminating the need for mechanical scanners while maintaining scanning capability and improving reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic control through the optical switching network, which can rapidly switch between different output couplers based on electronic control signals. This dynamic switching capability provides scanning functionality without mechanical movement, achieving fast beam steering through temporal multiplexing of static optical elements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple beam directions are required for wide target region scanning, then the scanning coverage is improved, but the cost and complexity of the LIDAR increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal optical beam-steering system where multiple output couplers serve different functions (different scanning directions, different fields of view) but share common infrastructure (single light source, single optical switch network, single detector). This multi-functionality approach allows wide target region scanning while avoiding the cost and complexity of having separate LIDAR systems for each direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple beam paths into a single optical switching network that routes light to different output couplers. By combining the functions of multiple potential LIDAR systems into one integrated structure with shared components, the system achieves wide scanning coverage without proportionally increasing cost and complexity.
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 efficient, scalable, and high-resolution LIDAR scanning by allowing light to be directed into various angular directions using a network of surface/edge couplers, reducing the need for moving parts and improving the apparatus' operational reliability and cost-effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
an optical switching fabric having a first port and a plurality of second ports, each second port optically coupled to a different one of the plurality of surface/edge couplers, the optical switch fabric configured to controllably establish an optical path between the first port and a selected one of the plurality of second ports
Implementation Method 2
The couplers can be, for example, grating couplers disposed on the surface of an integrated photonics device
Implementation Method 3
addition of a beam deflector (e.g. a static prism) to each coupler
Data Source
AI summary
A LIDAR or other optical beamsteering apparatus includes an optical switch having a first port and a plurality of second ports. The switch is operated to establish an optical path between the first port and one of the second ports. The first port is connected to a light source or a light detector. Different second ports are connected to different surface/edge couplers. Each of the surface/edge couplers couples light from or to the apparatus in a different respective direction. The surface/edge couplers can be grating couplers. The direction of light coupling is configured due to the orientation of the surface/edge coupler and its grating period, where applicable. Surface/edge couplers can be arranged in a circular or concentric ring pattern. Grating couplers can be elongated.