Free Space Optical Node Fiber Bundle Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Free space optical communication systems face challenges in maintaining alignment due to changing light conditions and electromagnetic interference, particularly in environments with high directional requirements and unpredictable movements of communication nodes.
Innovation Solution
An alignment system within a free space optical node using a bundle of optical fibers to determine the position of a received light beam, allowing the node to adapt to changing conditions by directing light to detection sensors without exposing alignment electronics to the external environment, thus protecting them from interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional light detection sensors are used to detect incoming light, then alignment can be achieved, but the alignment electronics are exposed to electromagnetic interference from the external environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an optical fiber bundle as an intermediary medium between the external optical signal and the internal alignment electronics. The fiber bundle transmits optical information into the sealed housing without requiring electronic components to be exposed to the external electromagnetic environment, thus protecting the electronics from EMI while maintaining alignment detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces direct electronic sensing with optical fiber-based sensing. Instead of using electronic sensors that must be exposed to detect light, the system uses optical fibers to guide light to the sensors, substituting an optical-mechanical transmission path for a direct electronic detection path, thereby isolating electronics from electromagnetic interference
2Productivity
If optical signals are transmitted through free space, then wireless communication is achieved, but the directional nature requires accurate pointing and rapid adjustment to maintain connection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated optical fiber bundle structure. The bundle simultaneously performs alignment detection, beam position sensing, and provides a sealed interface for protecting electronics. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall alignment system while maintaining high communication capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The optical fiber bundle serves multiple purposes: it acts as a protective seal for the housing, a transmission medium for optical signals, a sensing element for beam position detection, and an alignment reference. This multi-functionality reduces system complexity by eliminating the need for separate components for each function
3Adaptability or versatility
If the FSO node operates in high light situations, then communication can be maintained, but the optical signal can overpower or saturate light sensors in low light situations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic alignment system that can rapidly adjust its sensing capabilities based on light conditions. The optical fiber bundle enables flexible coupling with different detection sensors that can be selected or adjusted according to whether the environment is high-light or low-light, allowing the system to adapt its detection parameters dynamically to maintain reliable signal detection across varying conditions
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
Enables reliable communication in varying light conditions and protects against electromagnetic interference, ensuring stable alignment and data transmission even in dynamic environments.
Implementation Method 1
a bundle of optical fibers that receives at least a portion of a received optical beam
Implementation Method 2
The fiber bundle protects the alignment electronics of the FSO node from electromagnetic interference (EMI). Traditional alignment systems may directly expose the alignment electronics to the outside environment (which may include EMI) to detect incoming light from a remote FSO node. The fiber bundle can direct incoming light to alignment electronics without directly exposing to the alignment electronics to the outside environment.
Data Source
AI summary
Described is a free space optical (FSO) node capable of communicating with a remote FSO node. The FSO node includes a Tx/Rx subassembly that is capable of simultaneously receiving and transmitting light carrying data, detecting the position/orientation of the received light signals, and aligning the Tx/Rx subassembly to account for misalignments with remote node. The Tx/Rx subassembly includes a central fiber for transmitting and receiving the optical signals so that the signal data can be processed. The Tx/Rx subassembly also includes a bundle of fibers that circumscribe the central fiber and receive a portion of received light signals to detect the position/orientation of the received light signals and align the FSO node with a remote FSO node.