LiDAR Technology Analysis
Spectral-acoustic-coordinated astigmatic metalens for wide field-of-view and high spatiotemporal resolution 3D imaging
Authors: Shujian Gong, Yinghui Guo, Xiaoyin Li, Mingbo Pu, Peng Tian, Qi Zhang, Lianwei Chen, Wenyi Ye, Heping Liu, Fei Zhang, Mingfeng Xu, Xiangang Luo
Publication: Gong et al. Light: Science & Applications (2026)15:85, https://doi.org/10.1038/s41377-025-02180-7
Metasurface-based light detection and ranging (LiDAR) is essential for high spatiotemporal resolution three-dimensional (3D) imaging in robotic and autonomous systems. Recent advances in inertia-free scanning techniques—such as acousto-optic and spectral scanning-have propelled the field forward. Nevertheless, key spatiotemporal metrics, including point acquisition rate (PAR), field-of-view (FOV), and imaging resolution, remain fundamentally constrained. These challenges are particularly acute in dual-axis LiDARs, where inter-axis rate mismatch and beam astigmatism degrade temporal and spatial resolution, respectively. Here, we present a wide-FOV, high spatiotemporal resolution LiDAR architecture with astigmatic metalens (AML) coordinated spectral-acousto-optic scanning. Consequently, a frame-wise point acquisition rate (FPAR) of 36.6 MHz (~5-fold improvement over existing reports) and a wide FOV of 102° are simultaneously achieved. This breakthrough redefines LiDAR's potential for ultra-high-speed, high-precision perception, enhancing applications such as autonomous driving with improved obstacle detection and safety at high speeds.
Executive Impact & Key Performance Metrics
This groundbreaking research introduces a novel LiDAR architecture that revolutionizes 3D imaging for robotic and autonomous systems. By integrating an astigmatic metalens (AML) with coordinated spectral-acousto-optic scanning, the system achieves an unprecedented combination of wide field-of-view (FOV), high spatiotemporal resolution, and superior spatial resolution. This innovation directly addresses the critical limitations of conventional LiDARs, making it ideal for applications demanding dynamic high-precision perception, such as autonomous driving and high-speed drone tracking, significantly enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
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Frame-wise Point Acquisition Rate (FPAR)
A ~5-fold improvement over existing reports, crucial for high temporal resolution.
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Field-of-View (FOV)
Significantly wider than conventional LiDARs, enabling broader environmental perception.
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Spatial Resolution
Achieved with the AML, ensuring precise object detection across the wide FOV.
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Imaging Frame Rate
Enables megap-pixel 3D imaging at video frame rates for dynamic scene capture.
Deep Analysis & Enterprise Applications
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Astigmatic Metalens (AML) Design & Function
The AML is a core innovation, crucial for simultaneously expanding the Field-of-View (FOV) and correcting beam astigmatism, which traditionally degrades spatial resolution in spectral scanning. Its unique phase profile, incorporating higher-order astigmatic terms, allows for inverse mapping between incident position and wide-FOV output angle, resolving the inherent trade-off between FOV and high spatial resolution. This design enables a total scanning FOV of 102° × 26° with well-corrected field distortion, significantly improving spatial detection capability compared to conventional methods.
102 Degrees
Wide Field-of-View (FOV)
Achieved through the astigmatic metalens (AML) design, enabling comprehensive environmental perception.
Spectral-Acousto-Optic Scanning (Spectral-AO)
Spectral-AO scanning is employed to achieve high Frame-wise Point Acquisition Rate (FPAR) by combining spectral scanning for the fast axis (tens of MHz) and an Acousto-Optic Deflector (AOD) for the slow axis (MHz-level). A critical aspect is 'rate matching' (β=1), ensuring the slow axis switching is synchronized with the fast axis line rate, maximizing FPAR to the instantaneous PAR of 36.6 MHz. This inertia-free scanning paradigm overcomes the limitations of mechanical scanners, offering rapid point acquisition and seamless transitions between scanning positions, which is vital for high temporal resolution in dynamic 3D imaging.
Spectral-AO Scanning Process
Broadband Pulsed Light
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Spectro-temporal Encoding
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Dual-axis AOD Scanning
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Blazed Grating Dispersion
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AML for FOV & Astigmatism Correction
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PMT Detection & 3D Reconstruction
Dynamic 3D Imaging & Temporal Resolution
The system demonstrates superior temporal resolution through dynamic 3D imaging of high-speed rotating objects. With an FPAR of up to 36.6 MHz, the LiDAR can achieve imaging frame rates of 20.3 kfps with 1800 points per frame. This capability is critical for tracking fast-moving targets and capturing subtle environmental changes, enabling precise measurement of rotational speeds and object movements. The high FPAR ensures dense point cloud acquisition at video frame rates, enhancing real-time perception for autonomous systems.
| Feature | Conventional LiDAR | Proposed System |
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| Frame-wise PAR (FPAR) |
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| Field-of-View (FOV) |
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| Spatial Resolution |
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| Scanning Mechanism |
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Subpixel Reconstruction for Enhanced Spatial Resolution
To further refine spatial resolution beyond the physical limits of raw point clouds, a subpixel reconstruction algorithm is employed. This post-processing technique recovers higher-resolution 3D datasets, enabling the clear resolution of fine features (e.g., 1 cm linewidth) that might be indistinct in raw data. By interpolating intensity variations across the 3D spatial domain, the system achieves a lateral spatial resolution of 6.46 mrad (0.37°), significantly boosting the precision of object detection and recognition.
Impact on Autonomous Driving
A self-driving car equipped with the proposed LiDAR system can achieve superior obstacle detection and safety at high speeds. The wide 102° FOV ensures comprehensive environmental sensing, while the 36.6 MHz FPAR and 0.37° spatial resolution enable real-time, high-precision perception of dynamic objects, even at 20.3 kfps.
- Enhanced Safety: Real-time, high-precision detection of fast-moving obstacles (e.g., drones at 225 km/h at 50m).
- Expanded Perception: 102° FOV covers a significantly wider area, reducing blind spots.
- Robustness: Metasurface-based design offers compact, solid-state advantages over bulky mechanical systems.
- Future-Proofing: High frame rates support advanced prediction algorithms and rapid decision-making in complex environments.
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Estimated Annual Savings
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Annual Hours Reclaimed
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Strategic Implementation Roadmap
Our phased approach ensures a smooth integration of this advanced LiDAR technology into your enterprise, maximizing impact with minimal disruption.
Phase 1: Proof-of-Concept & Optimization
Develop and refine the AML design using Zemax simulations, fabricate initial prototypes, and conduct fundamental characterization of FPAR, FOV, and spatial resolution in controlled lab settings.
Phase 2: System Integration & Validation
Integrate the AML with spectral-AO scanning, optimize inter-axis rate matching, and perform dynamic 3D imaging experiments with resolution targets and moving objects. Validate performance against key metrics.
Phase 3: Miniaturization & Field Testing
Transition to a compact, robust hardware design suitable for real-world deployment. Conduct field tests in diverse environments (e.g., autonomous driving scenarios) to assess performance under varying conditions.
Phase 4: Commercialization & Scalability
Establish manufacturing processes for mass production of AMLs and integrated LiDAR modules. Pursue partnerships for commercial deployment in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and drone applications.
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