High density emission along with a narrow width supports longer distances and higher accuracy in LiDAR-equipped applications
Recent years have witnessed increased adoption of LiDAR in a wide range of applications requiring automation for precisely measuring distance and spatial recognition. Therefore the performance of laser diodes needs to be improved when used as light sources to increase detection distance and accuracy while reducing power consumption.
The newly developed RLD90QZW3, a 75W infrared high optical output laser diode by ROHM, addresses this need. Suitable for applications such as AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles) and service robots in the industrial equipment sector, and robot vacuums in the consumer field, the device achieves narrower emission width, thus contributing to longer distance measurement and spatial recognition in LiDAR applications.
Designed for use in large distance measurement and spatial recognition, the RLD90QZW3 achieves an unprecedented emission width of 225μm optical output, which is 22% narrower than conventional products, improving beam characteristics for suitable use in 3D ToF (Time of Flight) systems.
At the same time, uniform emission intensity together with low-temperature dependence of the laser wavelength ensures stable performance, contributing to higher accuracy and longer distance coverage in various LiDAR applications. Moreover, a power conversion efficiency (which is at a trade-off with narrow emission width) of 21% – the same as standard products (at a forward current of 24A and 75W output) – enables use without increased power consumption.
Key Features
- Narrow emission width (225μm) for longer range and greater accuracy: The RLD90QZW3 achieves a high 75W output for LiDAR along with a narrow emission width (225μm). High-density emission translates to superior beam performance. Along with achieving uniform emission intensity across the entire emission width, the temperature dependence of the laser wavelength is extremely low at 0.15nm/°C, reducing susceptibility to temperature changes for stable performance.
As a result, compared to standard products with emission width of 290μm and             temperature dependence of 0.25nm/°C with the same optical output power, the RLD90QZW3 reduces these to 22% and 40%, respectively, providing longer ranging
in LiDAR applications as well as higher accuracy at standard distances.
- Equivalent power-optical conversion efficiency (PCE) for low power consumption:Â Achieves a narrow width in the same optical output class while delivering equivalent power conversion efficiency (which is in a contrary relationship) as standard products (PCE: 21% at 24A IF, 75W output). This ensures worry-free use without increasing power consumption.
- Comprehensive support enables quick market introduction:Â A broad range of design support data including simulation data (SPICE models, Ray data), board development data and application notes on drive circuit design for quick integration and evaluation are available.
Now available in mass production, the RLD90QZW3 can be obtained from ROHM Semiconductor and authorised online distributors.
Going forward, ROHM will continue to contribute to achieving safer, more convenient LiDAR-equipped applications.
