3D imaging sensors have applications that span several industries and markets, from industry metrology, robotic control to autonomous vehicles. Frequency-modulated continuous-wave (FMCW) light detection and ranging (LiDAR) systems provide high-resolution anti-interference distance and velocity measurements without fast electronics or high optical power but typically require expensive narrow-linewidth lasers with complex feedback circuits. Instead, we report on linearizing the laser chirp by using iterative learning pre-distortion of the laser drive waveform, thus reducing the need for feedback control or expensive tunable laser hardware. We also report on a laser phase noise compensation method to extend the detection range, and experimentally demonstrate a detection range >100 m. With these two methods, long-range FMCW LiDAR with velocity detection capability can be achieved with regular commercial semiconductor lasers and a simple setup. In addition, we report on a large-scale 2-dimensional silicon photonics focal plane switch array with MEMS optical switches for high-speed random-access optical beam steering, which enables an integrated LiDAR system.
Project ended: 08/25/2021