Field-of-view control of segmented NIR VCSEL arrays for next-generation flash LiDARs

摘要

NIR VCSELs are proliferating from Datacom to Consumer Electronics and Automotive Applications. 3D object detection and imaging at distances from 1 to 100m is in the focus. VCSEL arrays for Flash LiDARs are considered or already in use for in-cabin/exterior-to-car detection, ADAS, gesture recognition, drones, robotics etc. In this work, we propose high peak power NIR VCSEL arrays with large range of field of view (FOV). The effective refractive index (neff) of the core and clad sections of the VCSEL structure based on industrial standard III-V processing is adapted to these applications. Controlling the transverse lasing modes, beam divergences as large as 46° can be achieved. Using the symmetric radiation profile and wide FOV, segmented VCSEL arrays offer a wide range of object detection applications, needing in addition adapted driver ICs and angled diffusers.