Japan Researchers Use Slow Light to Accelerate LiDAR Sensors Development

A team from Yokohama National University in Japan believes they have developed a method to obtain a sensor by taking advantage of slow light and published the results in the Optica, a journal published by The Optical Society, on January 2020.


A small-sized silicon photonics chip that can be used for non-mechanical beam steering and scanning.
(Image: Yokohama National University)

In modern LiDAR sensors, many of the systems are composed of a laser source; a photodetector, which converts light into current; and an optical beam steering device, which directs the light into the proper location.

Toshihiko Baba, the author and professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Yokohama National University, noted that most of the optical beam steering devices are based on mechanics such as rotary mirrors, which makes the device large and heavy. The bulky designs usually have speed limitation and higher cost.

In recent years, according to Baba, more engineers have turned toward optical phased arrays, which direct the optical beam without mechanical parts. But, Baba warned, such an approach can become complicated due to the sheer number of optical antennae required, as well as the time and precision needed to calibrate each piece.

"In our study, we employed another approach, what we call 'slow light,'" Baba said.

Baba and his team used a special waveguide "photonic crystal," aimed through a silicon-etched medium. Light is slowed down and emitted to the free space when forced to interact with the photonic crystal. The researchers engaged a prism lens to then direct the beam in the desired direction.

With the new approach, the research team created a smaller and resilient LiDAR that can be produced in lower cost. The team plans to more fully demonstrate the potential of a solid-state LiDAR, as well as work on improving its performance with the ultimate goal of commercializing the device.

Disclaimers of Warranties
1. The website does not warrant the following:
1.1 The services from the website meets your requirement;
1.2 The accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the service;
1.3 The accuracy, reliability of conclusions drawn from using the service;
1.4 The accuracy, completeness, or timeliness, or security of any information that you download from the website
2. The services provided by the website is intended for your reference only. The website shall be not be responsible for investment decisions, damages, or other losses resulting from use of the website or the information contained therein<
Proprietary Rights
You may not reproduce, modify, create derivative works from, display, perform, publish, distribute, disseminate, broadcast or circulate to any third party, any materials contained on the services without the express prior written consent of the website or its legal owner.

New flux bin options offer even better optical performance and efficacy Cree LED has introduced XLamp XP-G3 S Line and XP-G4 White LEDs that are now brighter, with new minimum flux bin options for drop-in increases of output and efficacy. XP-G... READ MORE

For decades, Cree LED has been at the forefront of video LED technology, setting the industry benchmark for large-format displays, digital signage and video screens used in sporting events, concerts and commercial installations. Our expansive ... READ MORE