Solid-state optical scanning device using a beam combiner and switch array

Abstract

Imaging optics cannot focus light beams emitted from different points onto one point with a lens. Therefore, fabricating a 3D image sensor with a focal plane array is challenging. We developed an imaging optics device with an intentionally shifted focal plane switch array comprising pixels with two optical antennas, a switch, and a receiver on a chip. We successfully illuminated a single point, received the reflected light with the same pixel, and scanned an illuminating target. The proposed system can serve as a 3D image sensor, with a detection range of 204 m for Lambertian reflectors with 94% reflectivity, and as a beam combiner for high-power lasers.