Integrated communication and sensing system based on Si-SiN dual-layer optical phased array

Abstract

Traditional free space optical communication (FSOC) and light detection and ranging (lidar) are typically separate entities. Integrated communication and sensing systems (ICSS) can harmoniously integrate environmental perception with data transmission, paving the way for efficient, safe, and intelligent vehicle. However, the performance of FSOC and lidar systems are often constrained by the traditional mechanical beam steering components, impacting beam scanning speed, system volume, and robustness. In this paper, we propose an ICSS with 64-channel SiN-Si dual-layer optical phased array (OPA) chip. The OPA is utilized as the fast and solid scanning component to realize multi-target FSOC and range detection. The dual-pulse interval modulation (DPIM) technique is utilized for generating pulse signals, supporting time-of-flight (ToF) based distance measurement and undistorted data transmission. The OPA functions as the transmitter in this system, realizing fast beam steering by controlling the antenna phase with beam switching time of 32.26 µs. The results show that this system can achieve fast targeting, reliable signal transmission to multiple targets and precise range detection concurrently.