Optical Isolator for Laser Range Finder Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Testing laser range finders and laser designators with high-powered optical signals can damage these devices and other optical equipment, and traditional methods like attenuative filters and beamsplitters often result in poor signal strength.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an optical isolator, such as a Faraday isolator, to attenuate reverse optical signals and transmit forward signals unattenuated, allowing for safe and effective indoor testing of laser range finders and designators by positioning the optical module, target, and detector in the same focal plane.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If attenuative filters and beamsplitters are used to reduce damage to optical devices, then damage to optical devices is reduced, but optical signal strength deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
An optical isolator is introduced as an intermediary component between the laser range finder and the optical devices. The isolator allows the forward optical signal to pass through to the target while blocking the reflected optical signal from reaching the optical devices, thus protecting them without attenuating the forward signal strength
Solution Approach 2:
The optical path is segmented into forward and reverse directions using the optical isolator. The isolator creates separate transmission paths for forward signals (unattenuated) and reverse signals (blocked), allowing differential treatment of optical signals based on their direction of travel
2Adaptability or versatility
If outdoor target ranges are used for testing laser range finders, then testing can be performed, but testing becomes subject to weather conditions and location constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The optical isolator enables indoor testing by acting as a mediator that allows high-powered laser signals to be safely directed at targets and detectors in the same room without damaging the optical devices, thus eliminating the need for outdoor ranges while maintaining testing effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The optical isolator enables the testing system to function in both indoor and outdoor environments, making the testing setup universal and adaptable to various locations without being constrained by weather or geographic conditions
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 enables reliable indoor testing of laser range finders without damaging optical devices, ensuring strong return signals are registered while preventing damage from high-powered optical beams.
Implementation Method 1
In certain embodiments, the optical isolator may include a Faraday isolator.
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a method includes receiving a first optical signal at a pulse detector. An electronic pulse of the first optical signal is received at an optical module. A second optical signal is generated at the optical module based on the electronic pulse. At least a portion of the first optical signal is received in a reverse direction at an optical isolator and the second optical signal is received in a forward direction at the optical isolator. The optical isolator substantially transmits the second optical signal to a target in the forward direction. The optical isolator substantially attenuates at least a portion of the first optical signal in the reverse direction.