Dynamic Holographic Plasma Waveguide for EM Signal Steering

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for forming plasma structures with precise accuracy using electromagnetic fields are limited in their ability to create specific patterns and shapes due to imprecision in applying electromagnetic fields.

Innovation Solution

A dynamically-reconfigurable plasma waveguide is created using holographically-generated plasma, where a computer-generated hologram is used to modulate laser light and generate plasma channels with precise control over location, shape, and intensity through constructive and destructive interference points, allowing for the precise formation of plasma structures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If electromagnetic fields are applied to form plasma structures, then plasma can be created and sustained, but the precision and accuracy of the formed structures are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprecision of plasma structure formationVSAvoidaccuracy of plasma structure control
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a hologram as an intermediary element between the laser source and the plasma formation process. The hologram encodes the desired plasma structure pattern and modulates the laser beam accordingly, enabling precise control over where and how plasma is formed. This intermediary allows the system to achieve high precision plasma structure formation without directly applying complex electromagnetic fields.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the direct electromagnetic field application method with an optical-based holographic projection system. Instead of using electromagnetic fields to directly shape plasma, the system uses laser light modulated by a hologram to induce plasma at specific locations, achieving superior precision through optical interference patterns rather than electromagnetic field control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If very high temperature is used to sustain ionization in plasma, then plasma conductivity is maintained, but the system requires more energy and becomes harder to control

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveplasma ionization sustainabilityVSAvoidenergy consumption for plasma maintenance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs pulsed laser delivery instead of continuous high-power laser exposure. The laser is delivered in controlled pulses that temporarily sustain plasma ionization only when needed for signal transmission. This periodic action allows the plasma to be created and maintained at high temperature only during active transmission periods, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining reliability during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system pre-forms the plasma channel using the holographic laser projection before electromagnetic signal transmission begins. This preliminary plasma creation establishes the conductive pathway in advance, allowing subsequent signal transmission to occur through the pre-established channel rather than requiring continuous high energy input to maintain ionization throughout the entire process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of manufacture

If plasma is formed without precise spatial control, then plasma creation is simpler, but the ability to form specific structure patterns is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of plasma formationVSAvoidplasma structure pattern accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the plasma formation process into discrete controllable elements through the hologram's pixel structure. Each pixel or group of pixels in the hologram can be independently addressed to create specific plasma features at precise locations. This segmentation allows the system to maintain simple plasma creation mechanisms while achieving complex and accurate plasma structure patterns through controlled activation of individual holographic elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 method enables secure, contactless, and dynamic transmission of electromagnetic signals by forming and steering plasma channels, allowing for precise control over the plasma's configuration in response to spatial and power constraints, enhancing signal transmission efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

generate a plurality of holographic wavefronts from the modulated plurality of incident laser beams, each holographic wavefront having corresponding focal points

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInterference: Interference

Implementation Method 2

Plasma may formed at the interference points of the focal points of the plurality of holographic wavefronts

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectIonisation: Ionisation

Data Source

PatentEP3398017B1Dynamic holography system for electromagnetic wave propagation
Publication Date: 2019.09.18 DUALITAS LTD
  • EP3398017B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3398017B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3398017B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A device (200,300) includes a plasma steering application generating a laser control signal and a SLM control signal and an electromagnetic (EM) wave application generating an EM control signal based on communication data or signal. The laser source (110) generates a plurality of incident laser beams based on the laser control signal. The SLM (112) receives and modulates the plurality of incident laser beams based on the SLM control signal, and generates a plurality of holographic wavefronts (214,216). Each holographic wavefront forms at least one corresponding focal points. Plasma (222) is formed at the focal points. An EM signal source (206) generates an EM signal in response to the EM control signal. The electromagnetic signal forms an EM wave (208) that propagates through the laser-induced plasma channel formed by the plasma points to an EM signal receiver (210).