Communication Link Power Control Using Disturbance Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Communication terminals face challenges in maintaining accurate pointing and reliable operation due to varying mechanical characteristics and environmental conditions, which affect power reception and transmission in free-space optical communication systems.
Innovation Solution
A communication system with sensors and processors that estimate disturbance values based on measurements and power indications to adjust components, such as transmitters and receivers, to maintain consistent power levels and counteract atmospheric fluctuations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional control techniques are used to manage mechanical components, then the system structure remains simple, but the ability to compensate for variability and maintain reliable operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-service by having the communication terminal automatically estimate disturbance values and adjust its own components based on sensor measurements and received power indications, eliminating the need for external manual control while maintaining reliable operation despite mechanical variability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring received power and sensor measurements, estimating disturbance values based on this feedback, and automatically adjusting components to compensate for changes in mechanical characteristics and environmental conditions
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical mechanisms are cycled through large temperature ranges and experience varying plant characteristics, then the system adapts to environmental conditions, but the friction and viscosity characteristics change making reliable operation difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system compensates for environmental adaptability challenges by dynamically changing control parameters based on estimated disturbance values that account for temperature-induced friction and viscosity changes in mechanical components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by estimating future disturbance values based on current environmental conditions and mechanical state, allowing the system to proactively adjust components before reliability issues occur
3Stability of the object's composition
If power adjustment is made frequently to compensate for disturbances, then the communication link stability improves, but the system responsiveness to real-time conditions may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system estimates future disturbance values based on current trends and environmental conditions, allowing power adjustments to be made in advance before disturbances fully manifest, thereby maintaining stability while preserving responsiveness through predictive rather than reactive control
Data Source
AI summary
A communication device is provided that estimates one or more disturbance values associated with one or more components of the communication device, and adjusts the communication device to change a received power of the output signal. The communication device includes a transmitter having a seed laser configured to provide an amount of bandwidth for an output signal, an Erbium-doped fiber amplifier (EDFA) configured to increase an amplitude of the output signal, and a single mode variable optical attenuator (SMVOA) configured to decrease the amplitude of the output signal.