Optical Fiber Interferometer for Large Range Distance Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current interferometry techniques face limitations in accurately measuring distances over large ranges with high resolution, particularly in three-dimensional applications, due to the need for precise alignment of detectors and the degradation of coherent light over distance.
Innovation Solution
The use of an optical fiber interferometer system that splits coherent light into separate beams, directed through waveguides to photodetectors, where the difference in interference photocurrents is measured to determine distance, allowing for flexible 1D, 2D, and 3D measurements with reduced alignment requirements and extended measurement ranges through triangulation methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If traditional interferometry techniques are used to measure large distances, then measurement range is extended, but measurement precision deteriorates due to coherent light degradation over distance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical path into multiple waveguide pathways, each handling a portion of the light propagation. This segmentation allows the system to maintain coherent light properties over extended distances by confining light within waveguides, thereby preserving measurement precision while extending the measurable distance range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces waveguides as intermediary structures between the light source and detectors. These waveguides act as mediators that guide and protect the coherent light from environmental degradation, enabling accurate measurements over large distances by maintaining light coherence through the extended optical path.
2Measurement precision
If high measurement precision is achieved through traditional interferometry, then nanometer scale accuracy is obtained, but detector alignment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the light propagation function and detection function into an integrated waveguide-detector structure. The waveguides directly connect to the photodetectors, eliminating the need for separate alignment of optical components. This integration maintains nanometer-scale measurement accuracy while dramatically reducing alignment complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from free-space optical propagation to confined waveguide propagation, adding the dimension of spatial confinement. This dimensional change allows light to be guided along predetermined paths, eliminating the need for precise angular and positional alignment between detectors while maintaining interference measurement accuracy.
3Ease of operation
If free-space light propagation is used for distance measurement, then setup simplicity is maintained, but alignment precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical alignment system with an optical waveguide system. Instead of mechanically adjusting detector positions and orientations to achieve precise alignment, the system uses waveguides to optically guide the light along fixed paths, thereby maintaining setup simplicity while eliminating alignment precision requirements.
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 enables accurate distance measurements with high resolution over large ranges, including three-dimensional positions, without the need for precise detector alignment, and allows for the tracking of moving objects and changes in distance, using a system that is cost-effective and adaptable for various applications.
Implementation Method 1
Interferometry is a measurement technique that involves the superimposition of waves
Implementation Method 2
directing each component beam along a separate waveguide pathway toward and into an associated photodetector to generate a local photocurrent
Data Source
AI summary
Devices, systems, and methods for determining a distance between at least two points are disclosed and described, wherein interferometry technology is utilized to determine such distances.