Waveguide Array Lidar Steering Coupling Loss
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Solution Overview
Problem
Biaxial LIDAR systems face reduced collection efficiency due to changes in the angle between the outgoing and returning light paths, leading to increased optical loss when steering the system output signal to different sample regions.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a waveguide array and a steering mechanism in the LIDAR system, where the comparative signal incident on the waveguide array changes in response to steering, allowing for reduced coupling loss by adjusting the angle of incidence on a free space region facet, and using a beam divider to direct light signals to multiple waveguides for improved signal processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a steering mechanism is used to direct the system output signal to different sample regions, then the LIDAR system can scan multiple areas, but the angle between the outgoing and returning light paths changes, reducing collection efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the waveguide structure into multiple discrete waveguides arranged in an array, where each waveguide can independently receive light at different angles. This segmentation allows the system to handle multiple sample regions while maintaining efficient light collection for each specific angle of incidence.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a single light path to a two-dimensional array of waveguides, adding spatial dimensionality to the light reception structure. This dimensional expansion enables simultaneous or sequential handling of multiple light paths at different angles, resolving the contradiction between scanning capability and collection efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the angle of incidence on the waveguide array changes during steering, then different sample regions can be targeted, but coupling loss increases reducing signal strength
Solution Approach 1:
Each waveguide in the array is designed with specific local properties optimized for its particular angle of incidence. The waveguide array provides different local coupling characteristics at different positions, allowing each waveguide to efficiently capture light at its specific angle while minimizing coupling loss for that particular sample region.
3Loss of energy
If a biaxial configuration is used to reduce loss in returned light levels, then collection efficiency improves, but the angle change during steering still reduces the effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The waveguide array provides a dynamic light reception structure that adapts to changing steering angles. As the steering mechanism directs light at different angles, the corresponding waveguides in the array efficiently capture the returned light, maintaining consistent performance across the full range of motion rather than being optimized for a single fixed angle.
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 enhances light collection efficiency and reduces optical loss during steering, maintaining signal integrity and accuracy across varying sample regions without substantial loss of the comparative signal.
Implementation Method 1
A LIDAR chip includes a waveguide array. A steering mechanism is configured to control the direction that a system output signal travels away from the LIDAR system.
Implementation Method 2
reduced coupling loss by adjusting the angle of incidence on a free space region facet
Data Source
AI summary
A LIDAR system includes a LIDAR chip configured to output a LIDAR output signal. The LIDAR chip includes a waveguide array. A steering mechanism is configured to control a direction that a system output signal travels away from the LIDAR system. The system output signal includes light from the LIDAR output signal. A location that a comparative signal is incident on the waveguide array changes in response to the steering mechanism changing a direction that the system output signal travels away from the LIDAR system. The comparative signal includes light from the system output signal after the system output signal has been reflected by an object located outside of the LIDAR system.