2D Optical Beam Scanning using Integrated Acousto-Optics and a Frequency Comb

TL;DR

This paper presents a novel integrated acousto-optic and frequency comb system for two-dimensional optical beam steering on-chip, enabling non-mechanical, wide-angle control suitable for advanced optical communication and quantum systems.

Contribution

It introduces a combined acousto-optic and frequency comb approach for 2D beam steering on a single chip, expanding the capabilities of integrated optical systems.

Findings

Achieved 18.2 by 4.3 degrees field of view in azimuth and polar directions.

Demonstrated steering of 11 comb lines across 1540-1570 nm.

Extended polar coverage to 11.4 degrees with a tunable laser.

Abstract

Optical beam steering is an essential technology for free-space optical communication, reconfigurable optical networks and quantum information systems. Yet conventional steering methods either require bulky mechanical mechanisms, or rely on complex arrays of individually controlled light emitting elements. Integrated acousto-optic beam steering (AOBS) offers non-mechanical, continuous one-dimensional steering on-chip by using traveling acoustic waves with variable frequency to deflect light. In this work, we combine AOBS with an optical frequency comb and optical gratings to enable two-dimensional beam steering from a single aperture. Azimuthal scanning is controlled via acoustic frequency while polar coverage is realized by dispersing frequency comb lines with the gratings. We demonstrate this architecture by sequentially selecting and steering 11 comb lines spanning 1540-1570 nm, achieving a field of view of 18.2 by 4.3 degrees. Validation with a tunable laser extends polar coverage to 11.4 degrees. Both components are realized on the same thin-film lithium niobate platform, providing a pathway toward monolithic integration.