1D Planar Optical Phased Array Chip for Solid-State Lidar
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional two-dimensional beam forming and steering optical phased arrays are complex and costly, with low yields, making them unsuitable for widespread adoption in solid-state lidar applications such as automotive ADAS and autonomous driving systems.
Innovation Solution
A one-dimensional planar beam forming and steering optical phased array chip is developed, utilizing Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) architectures and micro- and nanotechnologies to create a simple building block for two-dimensional beam forming and steering, enabling high-yield and low-cost manufacturing through Design for Manufacturing (DFM) rules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional two-dimensional beam forming and steering optical phased arrays are used, then beam steering capability is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly while manufacturing yield decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the two-dimensional beam steering function into multiple one-dimensional optical phased arrays. Each OPA chip handles beam steering in one dimension, and multiple chips are combined to achieve full two-dimensional coverage. This segmentation simplifies the design and manufacturing of individual chips while maintaining the overall system capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from conventional two-dimensional phased arrays to a multi-chip three-dimensional arrangement. By stacking multiple one-dimensional OPA chips in different orientations (e.g., horizontal and vertical), the system achieves two-dimensional beam steering through spatial arrangement rather than within-plane complexity.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional two-dimensional optical phased arrays are used, then beam steering is achieved, but manufacturing cost increases and yield decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the complex two-dimensional phased array into multiple simpler one-dimensional OPA chips. Each chip contains fewer optical elements and simpler interconnections, making it easier to manufacture with higher yield. The segmented chips are then assembled to form the complete system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical integration of all optical elements within a single chip with a modular assembly approach. Standardized one-dimensional OPA chips are manufactured separately using proven processes, then integrated through precise positioning and alignment mechanisms, substituting complex single-chip integration with modular assembly.
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 1D planar beam forming and steering optical phased array chip facilitates the production of solid-state lidars with improved reliability, cost-effectiveness, and scalability, supporting high-resolution beam forming and steering necessary for real-time three-dimensional mapping and object detection.
Implementation Method 1
optical phase shifters for controlling a phase of the laser beams
Implementation Method 2
optical phase shifters in the form of grouped linear ohmic heating electrodes
Implementation Method 3
said antennas achieve out-of-plane coupling of light... each antenna emits light of a specific phase to form a desired far-field radiation pattern through interference of these emissions
Implementation Method 4
out-of-plane optical couplers for extracting the laser beams from the photonic integrated circuit chip in a vertical direction
Data Source
AI summary
A one-dimensional planar beam forming and steering optical phased array chip is a simple building block of a two-dimensional beam forming and steering solid-state lidar, enabling manufacturing of said lidars at high yield and low cost through the use of a plurality of said chips. Innovative photonic integrated circuit chip architectures that follow design for manufacturing rules enable said building blocks.