Phased-Array Beamspace Mapping with 1D Fiber Array Simplification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical processors for wireless communication require complex and costly three-dimensional optical beam processing, which is inefficient due to the need for two-dimensional antenna arrays and fiber arrays.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that correlate radiation beams by distributing sensors according to a first pattern and radiating elements according to a second pattern, with channels connecting sensors to radiating elements, allowing for the mapping of incoming radiation beams to outgoing beams while reducing the complexity to a 1D linear array.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two-dimensional antenna arrays and two-dimensional fiber arrays are used for RF beam forming, then the beam-forming ability is preserved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the conventional two-dimensional fiber array into a one-dimensional linear array by changing the spatial arrangement dimension. This dimensionality reduction simplifies the optical processor architecture while maintaining the essential beam-forming functionality through a different geometric configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a mapping relationship where the one-dimensional linear array of optical fibers replicates the beam-forming capabilities of the two-dimensional antenna array. Each fiber in the linear array corresponds to a specific antenna element, preserving the spatial mapping and beam-forming ability through this copied relationship.
2Reliability
If conventional three-dimensional optical beam processing is used, then the beam processing capability is maintained, but the manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces the optical processing from three-dimensional to two-dimensional by using a one-dimensional linear array of optical fibers instead of a two-dimensional fiber array. This dimensional reduction simplifies the manufacturing process and assembly requirements while maintaining the necessary optical beam processing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential beam-forming functionality from the complex three-dimensional optical processing system and implements it through a simplified one-dimensional linear array configuration. This extraction removes unnecessary complexity while retaining the core functional capability.
3Manufacturing precision
If two-dimensional fiber arrays are used, then the spatial mapping accuracy is improved, but the ease of operation and alignment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the spatial arrangement from two-dimensional to one-dimensional, creating a linear array that is easier to align and operate. This dimensional change reduces the alignment complexity while maintaining the spatial mapping accuracy through the linear configuration's inherent simplicity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach preserves the beam-forming ability, reduces manufacturing costs, and simplifies system architecture by mapping 2D optical fiber arrays into 1D linear arrays, achieving efficient wireless communication.
Implementation Method 1
The plurality of sensors may capture incoming radiation and convert the incoming radiation to a plurality of signals
Implementation Method 2
Each of the radiating elements is in communication with a corresponding one of the plurality of channels to provide an outgoing radiation corresponding to the signal received by the channel
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method is provided to correlate radiation beams, such as RF beams, optical beams, and/or acoustic beams. A plurality of sensors are distributed according to a first pattern and disposed adjacent to a first interference region. The plurality of sensors may capture incoming radiation and convert the incoming radiation to a plurality of signals. A plurality of radiating elements are distributed according to a second pattern that differs from the first pattern and are disposed adjacent to a second interference region. A plurality of channels are connected between the sensors and the radiating elements, each channel connecting a corresponding sensor to receive a corresponding signal. Each of the radiating elements is in communication with a corresponding one of the plurality of channels to provide an outgoing radiation corresponding to the signal received by the channel. The second pattern has a relationship to the first pattern such that first and second beams of incoming radiation in the first interference region captured by the plurality of sensors are respectively mapped to corresponding first and second beams of outgoing radiation emitted by the plurality of radiating elements into the second interference region.