Spatially-Adaptive LiDAR and Underwater Communications Using Integrated Optical Phased Arrays

Abstract

Silicon-photonics microsystems have enabled advanced optoelectronic capabilities in applications spanning from sensors to communication systems. In particular, integrated optical-phased-array-based (OPA-based) technologies, such as solid-state LiDAR and free-space optical communications (FSOC) systems, show promise to revolutionize the way we sense and communicate. This thesis enables new integrated-OPA-based solid-state beam-steering capabilities for these existing applications, as well as emerging spatially- and spectrally-demanding applications. First, we develop and experimentally demonstrate a novel multi-beam solid-state OPA-based LiDAR system capable of detecting and ranging multiple targets simultaneously, passively, and without rastering. Through this work, we demonstrate a new spatially-adaptive sensing modality for solid-state LiDAR that promises to reduce the data deluge associated with LiDAR sensing for autonomous systems. Second, we show the first, to the best of our knowledge, spiral integrated OPAs, enabling emission of focusing beams with tunable variable focal heights for the first time. This work introduces a first-of-its-kind integrated OPA architecture and, as such, enables new functionality for emerging applications of OPAs that require focusing operation, such as biophotonic optical tweezers and chip-based 3D printers. Third, we show the first visible-light integrated-OPA-based FSOC transmitter and use it to experimentally demonstrate the first integrated-OPA-based underwater-wireless-optical-communication (UWOC) link. This integrated OPA transmitter chip can reduce the size, weight, and mechanical complexity of apparatus for UWOC systems.