Trumpf to demo VCSELs for optical sensing
Trumpf Photonic Components will run two live demonstrations to show the performance of its single-mode VCSEL solutions at Sensor+Test (11th to 13th June) in Nuremberg, Germany.
One demo illustrates the measurement principle Time-of-Flight (ToF). ToF measurement relies on emitting a short pulse of light from the VCSEL. By measuring the time taken for the light to travel to the object and back, the distance can be accurately calculated using the speed of light, enabling precise distance measurements for applications like depth sensing with smartphones or gesture recognition systems.
Another live demonstration will highlight the capabilities for gas sensing in the 760nm to 766nm wavelength range. A benefit of optical measurement is highly accurate, real-time information. The VCSEL packages with integrated temperature control allow for easy handling and precise wavelength tunability.
Trumpf says that optical sensing with VCSEL technology offers highly precise measurements due to its narrow spectral linewidth, enabling accurate detection of small changes. VCSELs are inherently compact and energy-efficient. Their fast modulation capabilities also allow for rapid data acquisition, enhancing real-time monitoring and response in a number of applications.
Trumpf offers single-mode VCSEL light sources with wavelengths ranging from 760 nm to 940 nm. For higher illumination quality, the company also offers solutions with polarisation control. Later in 2024, Trumpf will expand its portfolio of polarised VCSELs and release polarisation-controlled, single-emitter, single-mode VCSEL components with 2 mW output power. This will serve applications like industrial optical encoding and spectroscopy. Evaluation samples will be available from September onwards and mass production is scheduled for the end of 2024.
