Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), a method that measures distances and speed using light and photo sensors, is one of the most promising developments in recent years for new and improved automobile safety systems. A complete LiDAR system comprises various components that work together to generate, record, and geo-reference data. To help firms receive holistic LiDAR solutions and leverage appropriate technology depending on their application, Hamamatsu covers the entire range of LiDAR optical component technologies under one roof and delivers standard and customized solutions with high-volume manufacturing capabilities.

Hamamatsu has also developed an x-ray system that can be used to check for faulty components in the manufacturing line. This failure analysis system pinpoints failures while manufacturing various components such as batteries, tires, or semiconductor chips.

“From designing new components to inspecting them, our high-quality optical components contribute to the diverse advanced technologies that assist in safe, reliable, green, and comfortable automobiles,” states Jake Q Li, business development manager at Hamamatsu. While engaging with a client, Hamamatsu takes a two-fold approach. The company understands its clients’ challenges and works on developing a solution accordingly while conducting R&D in the background to provide innovative and unique results that can exceed customer expectations in performance and reliability.

Since every client has a unique approach to the LiDAR design, their needs significantly vary. Traditional optical suppliers offer mostly off-the-shelf products, which may delay the design phase as clients have to experiment with various pre-established designs to suit their purpose. Hamamatsu tackles this challenge by offering a broad range of technologies to match clients’ requirements and recommends the best-fit solution. More than 85 percent of the company’s product portfolio is customized and designed according to its customers’ requirements.

Working with optical components can be tedious as alignment and tolerance are critical factors during assembly.

To reduce the complexity of system manufacturing and simplify the supply chain, aside from providing full range of optical components, Hamamatsu also provides fully integrated optical solutions that combine optics detectors, sources, drivers, and electronics in one package. Clients no longer have to assemble or qualify every components under AEC guidelines, as Hamamatsu ensures that the full optical module will meet ISO standards, stringent environmental testing conditions, and long cycling task requirements.

For instance, a client could not decide on the detectors needed for their LIDAR design. Hamamatsu recommended avalanche photodiode (APD) and silicon photomultiplier (SiPM) and explained the benefits and disadvantages of each technology. The client thoroughly understood both technologies and decided to opt for SiPM as they were designing a short to mid-range LiDAR system.

In another interesting scenario, a client approached Hamamatsu with a final design and was interested in only buying optical components from the company. The client initially planned to assemble it themselves, but had to approach multiple suppliers for parts, find the right partner for high-volume manufacturing under qualified conditions, and invest resources for testing. Hamamatsu was a one-stop shop and saved the client significant resources in cost and time.

Hamamatsu boasts a team of qualified optical engineers who act as a voice of information and guide the clients in all their processes. The company has improved its position in terms of cost competitiveness and rebranded itself as the most reliable and high-performance optical components and modules provider. Clients no longer have to spend millions in the foundry as Hamamatsu can design detectors and application-specific integrated circuits (ASIC) and combine them in a seamlessly integrated assembly.