LPASS Optical Transceiver With VCSEL Steering for Low-Power Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for low power and low footprint optical communication technologies that support short to medium range communications with radiation hardenable components, bidirectional communication, and the ability to locate and track vehicles, particularly for applications involving satellites, micro- and nano-satellites, UAVs, aerial and ground vehicles, and fixed platforms.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a Low Power Angular Spectrum Steered (LPASS) optical communication system using VCSEL-based technology for short range and switched higher power laser-based systems, combined with radiation hardenable retromodulator technology, which includes dense VCSEL arrays near the back focal plane of an infinite conjugate imager, allowing for compact and low power communication with bidirectional capabilities and nearly spherical coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional optical communication systems are used, then communication capability is achieved, but power consumption and device footprint are excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the transmitter and receiver into a single optical transceiver unit, merging multiple functions into one compact device. This integration eliminates the need for separate transmitter and receiver systems, thereby reducing overall power consumption and minimizing device footprint while maintaining full bidirectional communication capability
Solution Approach 2:
The optical transceiver is designed to perform multiple functions including transmission, reception, and tracking within a single device. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated transmitter and receiver systems, reducing both power consumption and device footprint while achieving the required communication capabilities
2Reliability
If radiation hardening is implemented, then reliability in space environment is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs radiation-hardened components with modified material parameters and structural properties that maintain functionality under radiation exposure. These components are designed to withstand space environment radiation without requiring excessive power for error correction or redundancy, thus achieving radiation resistance with controlled power consumption
3Use of energy by moving object
If VCSEL arrays are used for short range, then power consumption is reduced, but communication range is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between VCSEL-based short-range mode and laser-based long-range mode depending on communication distance requirements. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to use low-power VCSELs when possible, extending communication range only when necessary, thereby optimizing the balance between power consumption and communication range
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
The LPASS system achieves low power dissipation and small footprint communication with nearly spherical coverage, enabling bidirectional communication and vehicle tracking, while being resistant to radiation, suitable for short to medium range applications.
Implementation Method 1
VCSEL-based technology for short range and switched higher power laser-based systems
Implementation Method 2
dense VCSEL arrays near the back focal plane of an infinite conjugate imager
Implementation Method 3
radiation hardenable retromodulator technology
Implementation Method 4
retromodulator technology that offers increased system flexibility
Data Source
AI summary
Low power and/or low footprint optical communication technologies that support short to medium range exoatmospheric communications and provide bidirectional communication with nearly spherical coverage.