High-Power Narrow-Pulse Width VCSEL Array Laser Source for Flash LiDAR

Abstract

High-power pulsed laser source with narrow pulse width is an indispensable component to improve the detection range and ranging accuracy of Flash LiDAR system. By utilizing the advantages of Vertical Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser which is easy to be integrated into surface array, 2× 6940nm VCSEL chips are integrated as a 3.2mm× 3.2mm surface array. The corresponding ns-level pulse drive circuit is designed based on GaN HEMT. The experimental results show that the pulse width of VCSEL array laser source is 5. 6ns, the peak power is about 1. 2kW, the repetition rate is up to 10kHz, and the far-field spot is relatively uniform, which is suitable for being as laser source of Flash LiDAR system.