Accurate measurements and easier production scaling
Although LiDAR technology has been around since the 1960s, it is only now gaining momentum thanks to a number of innovative advancements. ULTEM™, SABIC’s PEI, has played a part in this. This high-performance material is used in one of the most demanding components of the LiDAR sensor: the optical carrier. There, ULTEM replaces the metal that has long been used, not only helping to reduce costs but also ensuring precise measurements, easier production scaling, and reliable sensor functionality thanks to its excellent dimensional stability.
Complex optical substrate design for Blickfeld's first smart LIDAR sensor
LiDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging and is an optical sensing technology that provides highly accurate three-dimensional measurements of any object in any environment using laser sensors. The optical carrier is one of the device’s key components, as this highly complex, miniaturized part houses the essential optics and microelectronics and is therefore crucial for precise measurements and the reliable functionality of the sensors.
A leading company in LiDAR technology is Blickfeld, based in Munich. The company offers specialized LiDAR solutions for applications including security systems, building and property security, and crowd analytics. Not only did it launch the first LiDAR sensor capable of capturing and instantly processing 3D data, but it also replaced a key component: The innovative solution behind the Qb2 is called ULTEM™.
ULTEM™ is a solution in the growing LiDAR market
“ULTEM™ offered a clear solution to the need to replace aluminum in their new compact optical carrier. “LiDAR is a growing market, and we are proud that our advanced material and design support has once again proven its ability to help customers solve the design challenges of structural applications in optoelectronics,” said Dr. David Elvers, PhD, Business Development Manager at SABIC Specialties.
Versatile ULTEM: A metal substitute for numerous industries and products
ULTEM™ PEI is a high-performance polymer that can withstand high temperatures, is highly strong and rigid, and exhibits low creep behavior. Because it reliably maintains dimensional tolerances in all directions across a wide temperature range, the LiDAR sensor’s high optical performance is ensured in a variety of environments. It was therefore a logical step for the designers at the German LiDAR specialist to opt for ULTEM instead of the aluminum carrier previously used in the devices. The easier processing and scalability, as well as the cost reduction, make this innovative step worthwhile. With its excellent properties, the versatile ULTEM is also a worthwhile alternative to metal for numerous other industries and products.
