Movable Lens Alignment for Free-Space Optical Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional directional free-space optical communication systems are highly dependent on precise alignment of communicating devices, making them unsuitable for incorporation into portable electronic devices that may be moved or repositioned.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a movable lens system within portable electronic devices, where the position of the lens is dynamically adjusted based on power output from photosensitive areas to maintain optimal alignment and data transfer efficiency, even when devices are not precisely aligned.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If precise alignment is maintained in conventional directional free-space optical communication systems, then data transfer reliability is improved, but the system cannot be incorporated into portable electronic devices that may be moved or repositioned
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a movable lens that can dynamically adjust its position in response to device movement or misalignment. The lens is coupled to a actuator that receives alignment error signals and modifies the lens position accordingly, enabling the system to adapt to changing conditions while maintaining reliable communication in portable devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a movable lens system is incorporated into portable devices, then adaptability and portability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical alignment mechanisms with a movable lens system controlled by electrical actuators. The actuator receives electrical alignment error signals and adjusts the lens position accordingly, substituting complex mechanical adjustment systems with a more compact and controllable electromechanical system suitable for portable devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a movable lens as an intermediary element between the light source and the communication channel. This intermediary can be dynamically positioned to compensate for misalignment, acting as a mediator that enables reliable communication without requiring precise alignment of the entire device assembly.
3Reliability
If the lens position is dynamically adjusted, then alignment tolerance is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where alignment error signals are continuously monitored and used to adjust the lens position. The actuator receives these feedback signals and modifies the lens position to maintain optimal alignment, enabling the system to achieve high alignment tolerance while consuming energy only when adjustment is needed rather than continuously.
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 solution enhances the positional and angular offset tolerance of free-space optical communication systems, allowing for reliable data transfer in portable devices by adjusting the lens position to maximize power output and maintain alignment, thereby ensuring consistent communication performance.
Implementation Method 1
a photosensitive element coupled to a substrate. In many embodiments, the photosensitive element includes at least two separated photosensitive areas
Implementation Method 2
a movable lens positioned above the photosensitive element... adjust a position of the movable lens based on a power output
Data Source
AI summary
A directional free-space optical communication system includes a source device including a laser diode and an endpoint device including a photodiode. The endpoint device and the source device also include an adjustable optics subsystem that increases both angular and positional offset tolerance between the source device and the endpoint device.