Optical Beam Steering Using White Cell and Trap Doors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for steering optical beams often require complex mechanical or electrical solutions, such as phased array approaches with gimbal arrangements, which are cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The use of an array of array elements and optical elements, including a trap door, where the input beam travels between the array elements and optical elements to be steered, allowing for the manipulation of the beam's path and direction without the need for complex mechanical systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If phased array approach with gimbal arrangement is used to steer optical beam, then beam steering capability is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical gimbal arrangement with an optical resonance cavity system. Instead of using mechanical rotation and positioning to steer the beam, the invention uses optical resonance and cavity configuration to achieve beam direction control, thereby eliminating complex mechanical components while maintaining beam steering capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical resonance cavity serves multiple functions: it confines the optical beam, provides feedback for resonance enhancement, and enables beam steering through its geometric configuration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, simplifying the overall device structure while achieving versatile beam control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional mechanical steering systems are used, then beam direction control is achieved, but system size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention substitutes mechanical steering components with a compact optical resonance cavity. The cavity uses optical paths and resonance conditions to achieve beam direction control without requiring large mechanical structures, significantly reducing the system volume while maintaining control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical elements and resonance cavity are arranged in a nested configuration where components are integrated within each other's spatial envelopes. This nesting approach maximizes the utilization of space, allowing the system to achieve complex optical functions within a minimized volume.
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 approach simplifies the steering of optical beams by using a White cell configuration with spherical mirrors and trap doors, enabling efficient beam steering with reduced complexity and size requirements, while maintaining precise control over beam positioning.
Implementation Method 1
The step of reflecting comprises reflecting the input light beam between the array and the plurality of optical elements such that the input light beam is reflects off of more than one of the array elements in the array
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods are provided for steering optical beams. The devices use arrays and at least one optical element to steer an input beam to a desired location. Additionally, devices and methods are provided for changing the array dimensions of arrays of input beam positions. The devices use arrays and a plurality of optical elements to rearrange an input array.