Apodized Slanted Teeth Grating Couplers for LiDAR Applications

Solid state LiDAR systems traditionally rely on costly active components for
efficient beam scanning. In this study, we propose a cost-effective, purely passive
steering approach using apodized slanted grating couplers. Through apodization,
we achieve a uniform upward emission profile and enhanced upward transmission.
Theoretical calculations indicate successful steering of 91.5◦x42.8◦. Experimental
results closely match theoretical predictions, validating the capabilities of our
passive steering concept. Additionally, the grating couplers, with a length of 3mm,
enable a farfield FWHM of 0.026◦, further enhancing sensing resolution.