Low Profile Pulse Laser Diodes for Compact LiDARs with Uncompromised Performance Low Profile Pulse Laser Diodes for Compact LiDARs with Uncompromised Performance

Low Profile Pulse Laser Diodes for Compact LiDARs with Uncompromised Performance

LiDAR (Light Detection And Ranging) is a crucial technology for robotic vision in industrial automation. It uses a fast-response light source and a detector to measure the time taken by light to travel from the source to the detector after reflecting off objects, thus calculating the distance. By scanning the field of view, LiDAR maps the position of objects in 3D with high accuracy. This information is used as input for tasks such as guiding logistic robots in warehouses, placing objects, and operating automated doors.

Hamamatsu Photonics is renowned for its high-quality pulsed laser diodes (PLDs) and detectors used in manufacturing LiDARs. The company has been continuously innovating to meet the requirements of LiDAR applications, resulting in the development of some of the fastest PLDs and detectors. These include PLDs with peak powers exceeding 150 W and detectors with high photon detection efficiency (PDE) and improved robustness. As LiDAR technology becomes more prevalent in the industry, factors beyond performance, such as ease of integration, energy efficiency, and compactness, are gaining importance.


 Innovative design of edge-emitting PLD in SMD package from Hamamatsu Photonics

Innovative design of edge-emitting PLD in SMD package from Hamamatsu Photonics

PLDs based on edge-emitting lasers are preferred for highpower applications. However, their form factor makes it challenging to manufacture them on a wafer level in a surface mount device (SMD) format, which has a low profile that enables compact LiDAR designs. Hamamatsu Photonics has developed an innovative design for PLDs in SMD packages. The new design is compatible with wafer-level manufacturing, allowing for large-volume production. These new PLDs are essentially edge-emitting lasers with a wedge mirror next to the laser window (see Figure). They provide high peak powers and energy efficiencies in a low-profile SMD format. In the post-processing step, these PLDs are resin-embedded for durability and long lifetimes. The unique design can be extended to arrays of PLDs with grouped or independent controls, demonstrating market-driven innovation at Hamamatsu Photonics.

Hamamatsu Photonics has made a significant breakthrough in PLD design. By successfully integrating edge-emitting lasers into a compact, low-profile SMD format compatible with wafer-level manufacturing, it has opened the door to mass production of high-power, efficient PLDs. This innovation not only enhances the durability and lifespan of these devices, but also paves the way for more versatile applications, including customizable arrays with flexible control options. Hamamatsu Photonics a setting the new standard for performance and scalability in the LiDAR and broader photonics markets, demonstrating a keen understanding of industry needs and a commitment to driving technological progress.


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