Optical phased array with 2D beam steering based on nonlinear beam mixing

Abstract

Optical phased arrays are a powerful tool for the compact implementation of beam scanners. Tuning of large-scale 2D arrays is, however, a daunting challenge that requires the integration of a very large number of phase tuners, resulting in challenging integration and power management. We combine 1D beam steering in two directions with nonlinear mixing of the generated beams by means of an optically addressable liquid crystal cell integrated on top. Addressable angular ranges and optimization of the nonlinear transformation strength are investigated.