| EPSRC Reference: |
EP/Z535813/1 |
| Title: |
Metasurface technologies for next generation automotive sensors |
| Principal Investigator: |
Fang, Dr X |
| Other Investigators: |
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| Department: |
Sch of Electronics and Computer Sci |
| Organisation: |
University of Southampton |
| Scheme: |
Standard Research TFS |
| Starts: |
01 March 2025 |
Ends: |
31 May 2025 |
Value (£): |
27,791
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| EPSRC Research Topic Classifications: |
| Electronic Devices & Subsys. |
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Summary on Grant Application Form |
Metasurfaces are ultra-thin layers of artificial nanostructures that provide precise control over the propagation of light. In recent years, the field of metasurface technologies is rapidly progressing toward real-world applications. In this collaborative project, our two research groups at the University of Southampton (UoS) and MIT aim to co-develop metasurface technologies for next-generation automotive sensing.
Our focus is on LiDAR (light detection and ranging) sensors, which are integral components in many automotive sensor suites. LiDAR sensors facilitate environment mapping in vehicles by utilizing a dynamically steered laser beam across a large field of view (FoV). Presently, this beam steering relies on a rotating mirror, but this solution is temporary due to its inherent challenges related to size, weight, power, and cost. In this collaborative project, our two groups will leverage our existing work on metasurfaces to develop a novel automotive LiDAR system devoid of any movable mechanisms.
At the UoS, my research group has been at the forefront of coherent metasurface technology. The metasurfaces developed by my group are capable of dynamically deflecting a laser beam at varying angles. However, the current FoV is limited to approximately 10 degrees, significantly below the automotive industry standard. Simultaneously, the MIT group has pioneered fisheye metasurface technology designed for wide-angle imaging, offering an impressive FoV exceeding 170 degrees. In this project, our goal is to integrate and optimize these two metasurfaces on a single silicon photonics platform. The collective aim is to achieve complete solid-state beam steering with a substantial FoV of 120 degrees.
If successful, our innovative LiDAR sensor could revolutionize automotive LiDAR technology, marking the first demonstration of metasurface-enabled, large FoV, fully solid-state laser steering compatible with the automotive industry. Utilizing a single channel of electronic control, our device has the potential to reduce sensor costs by approximately a hundred USD per unit, including savings in associated control and signal processing units. This breakthrough holds the promise of disrupting the current LiDAR market, providing significant technological and commercial benefits. It is poised to enhance the performance of modern advanced driver assistance systems, making driving safer and more economical, and expediting the advent of fully autonomous driving.
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Key Findings |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Potential use in non-academic contexts |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Impacts |
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| Description |
This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk |
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Sectors submitted by the Researcher |
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This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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| Project URL: |
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| Further Information: |
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| Organisation Website: |
http://www.soton.ac.uk |