FSO Terminal Shared Optical Path Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional two-node bi-directional Free Space Optical (FSO) communication systems are complex due to the need for beam splitting and multiple paths for alignment and detection, which introduces errors from misalignment and drift.
Innovation Solution
A free space optical terminal with a wave front sensor and a detector sharing the same optical path, eliminating the need for a beam splitter to separate alignment and detection functions, allowing for a single optical path for both functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If beam splitting and separate detectors are used for alignment and detection, then alignment function and detection function can be performed separately, but the system complexity increases and misalignment errors are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the alignment sensor and detection sensor into a single integrated optical component, allowing both alignment and detection functions to be performed through a single optical path without requiring beam splitting or separate detection paths, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining functional separation
2Ease of operation
If beam splitting and multiple paths are used for alignment and detection, then separate alignment and detection can be achieved, but misalignment and drift errors are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the optical paths of the alignment sensor and detection sensor into a single common optical path, eliminating the misalignment and drift errors that occur between separate paths while maintaining the ability to perform separate alignment and detection functions through the shared path
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional two-node bi-directional system with beam splitter is used, then alignment and detection can be performed, but the system becomes complex with multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a single optical component that serves multiple functions - acting as both an alignment sensor and a detection sensor, thereby eliminating the need for separate beam splitters, multiple detectors, and complex optical paths while maintaining full alignment and detection capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple optical functions into a single integrated sensor that can simultaneously or separately perform alignment and detection through a common optical path, reducing the total number of optical components required in the system
Data Source
AI summary
A detector configuration for use in a free space optical (FSO) node for transmitting and/or receiving optical signals has a plurality of sensors for detecting received optical signals. The plurality of sensors is configured along a common optical path and are used for separate functions. According, the detectors may be optimized for the respective function.