Beamspace Phased-Array Mapping with 2D-to-1D Optical Layout
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional optical processors for wireless communication require complex and costly three-dimensional optical beam processing, which is inefficient due to the manual assembly of discrete optical elements.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that map a 2D optical fiber array into a 1D linear array, using a planar approach to preserve beam-forming ability and simplify manufacturing, while correlating radiation beams such as RF, optical, and acoustic beams.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If 2D optical fiber array is used to map 2D antenna array, then beam-forming ability is preserved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase due to 3D optical processing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the 2D optical fiber array into a 1D linear array, changing the dimensional configuration to simplify the optical processing architecture. This dimensionality reduction eliminates the need for complex 3D optical beam processing while preserving the essential beam-forming capability through careful design of the linear array geometry and corresponding signal processing algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the 2D antenna array elements and maps them to a 1D linear fiber array through a systematic reconfiguration. By dividing and redistributing the array elements along a single dimension, the system achieves simplified optical processing while maintaining the spatial sampling requirements for beam formation through appropriate spacing and weighting of the linear array elements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If 2D optical fiber array is used to map 2D antenna array, then beam-forming ability is preserved, but manufacturing cost increases due to manual assembly of discrete optical elements
Solution Approach 1:
By reducing the optical fiber array from 2D to 1D configuration, the patent enables the use of planar fabrication techniques instead of complex 3D assembly processes. This dimensional simplification allows for automated manufacturing and integration with standard semiconductor fabrication processes, dramatically reducing both manufacturing cost and complexity while preserving beam-forming functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical assembly of discrete optical elements in 3D space with a planar, integrated optical structure that can be fabricated using semiconductor manufacturing techniques. This substitution eliminates the need for manual alignment and assembly of optical components, reducing manufacturing cost and improving reproducibility while maintaining optical performance.
3Measurement precision
If 2D optical fiber array is used, then spatial mapping of RF to optical beams is achieved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reduction from 2D to 1D optical fiber array configuration decreases the total number of optical channels required, thereby reducing the power consumption associated with optical signal transmission and processing. The linear array maintains sufficient spatial sampling capability through optimized element spacing and signal processing algorithms, achieving the required spatial mapping accuracy with lower energy expenditure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a 1D linear array that provides just sufficient spatial sampling for beam-forming applications, rather than the excessive sampling provided by a full 2D array. By carefully designing the linear array spacing and utilizing advanced signal processing techniques, the system achieves adequate spatial mapping precision with reduced optical power consumption compared to the more resource-intensive 2D configuration.
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.