LiDAR (light detection and ranging) is a survey-mapping technology that detects objects and distances in 3D by measuring the time it takes for laser pulses to bounce off objects at a distance. Thermal management is crucial to most laser systems, and LiDAR lasers are no different. Stable temperatures within LiDAR systems are essential for optimal performance, as temperature fluctuations can lead to changes in laser wavelength and increased range errors. Excessive heat can degrade laser performance, reduce reliability, and even lead to component failure if not adequately managed.

In order to bring the temperature down of an object or chamber, heat must be removed faster than it can be created. There are two primary attributes that the designer needs to determine to specify a TEA for their application.

The European Green Deal is an ambitious initiative by the European Union (EU) aimed at making the region more sustainable and climate neutral. Its primary goal is to transform the EU into a green and circular economy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing environmental sustainability. The key objectives include achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

Vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) are a type of semiconductor laser that emits a circular, low-divergence beam of light perpendicular to the surface of the chip, as opposed to edge-emitting lasers that emit parallel to the chip surface. This beam quality simplifies optical system design and improves coupling efficiency. VCSELs are characterized by their unique structure, which consists of a thin layer of active semiconductor material sandwiched between two highly reflective mirrors.

Thermoelectric cooler assemblies (TEAs) offer benefits such as precise temperature control, compact size, quiet operation, and the absence of refrigerants or moving parts. Some may argue that they have limitations in terms of cooling capacity and efficiency compared to traditional refrigeration methods, however, we can demonstrate otherwise.