Stanford engineers have developed an optical modulator to enable low-cost and high spatial-resolution time-of-flight imaging and LiDAR with low-cost standard image sensors.
Stanford researchers at the Cutkosky Lab have developed a fast process for directly machining into metal to create wedge-shaped geometries. The machined mold is then used to cast gecko-inspired adhesives multiple times without damaging the mold.
Researchers at Stanford have developed a highly efficient (>90%) holographic beam steering method for obtaining distance information of objects nearby, with applications from autonomous vehicles to home appliances.
Stanford researchers have developed a simple optical device for low-power, active light tuning. The device tunes the color of light across the visible spectrum and at select wavelengths by electrical biasing an array of micron sized pixels or nanowires.
Engineers in the Solgaard lab have developed a high-speed, random access grating light valve (GLV) for phase modulation to steer and focus light in LIDAR and 3D imaging applications.
Stanford researchers at the Vuckovic Lab have developed a dispersion engineered phased array which can be used as a beam steering device for compact LIDAR or ranging systems critical for self-driving cars, logistics, and the security sector.
Stanford researchers developed a method to make large phase shifts with little or no power dissipation in integrated optics. The approach uses a directional coupler moved by a MEMS actuator to achieve a path delay, i.e. an effective change in refractive index.
This portfolio of inventions provides the tools for an advanced navigational system and panoramic virtual tours – technology that is incorporated in Google Street View.