Cascaded domain engineering optical phased array for 2D beam steering

Abstract

The current approach to 2D optical phased array (OPA) encounters challenges, such as the requirement for a highly tunable laser that is incompatible with certain 2D beam-steering applications or significant power consumption, large antenna spacing and complex wiring resulting from independent control of array elements. To address these challenges, we propose an OPA architecture based on cascaded periodically poled LiNbO₃ sequences, a multi-layered domains engineered structure within the LiNbO₃ electro-optic crystal, only two control electronics to program the 2D beam-steering trajectory with a range of approximately θ_y = ±20° and θ_z = ±16° through simulations. This structure enables the uniform distribution of phase differences between adjacent array elements (adjacent domains) upon beam exit from the crystal, ensuring optimal performance. The aim of this study is to develop a methodology that employs domain engineering techniques for designing high-performance phase-controlled devices with customized functional units and sequences in electro-optical crystals. Our research has implications for emerging optoelectronic applications, such as customizable optical interconnects and integrated LiDAR systems.