Optical Wireless Phase Mask for Interference Mitigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Optical wireless communication systems face challenges in decoding performance due to external interference, particularly from strong sunlight, and lack robust physical layer security against eavesdropping.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method and apparatus that apply a phase pattern to the wavefront of an optical signal using a phase mask, determined by quantization and phase orders, for efficient transmission and reception, enabling wavefront encryption and interference mitigation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional optical communication is used, then the system is simple and easy to implement, but decoding performance deteriorates due to external interference light sources such as sunlight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (phase mask/phase pattern) between the optical signal and the receiver that selectively processes different phase components. The phase mask acts as a mediator that allows the desired signal to pass through while blocking or attenuating interference from external light sources like sunlight, thereby improving decoding performance without requiring complex receiver hardware changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies phase modulation to the optical signal, changing the phase parameter of the light wave to encode information. By modulating the phase rather than relying on intensity alone, the system creates a more robust communication channel that is less susceptible to intensity-based interference from external sources, thus improving reliability in sunny environments.
2Reliability
If conventional optical communication without encryption is used, then the system is simple, but physical layer security is lacking and vulnerable to eavesdropping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies phase encoding/encryption to the optical signal before transmission. The phase mask is applied in advance to the signal, embedding security features that prevent eavesdropping. The receiver, equipped with the corresponding phase mask, can decode the signal while an eavesdropper without the correct phase mask cannot extract meaningful information, thus providing physical layer security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses phase modulation as an encryption mechanism, changing the phase parameter of the optical signal in a controlled manner to encode information securely. This parameter change approach provides security at the physical layer without requiring complex cryptographic protocols, balancing security needs with system simplicity.
3Reliability
If phase pattern is applied to wavefront for encryption and interference mitigation, then decoding performance and security improve, but device complexity increases due to phase mask requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the phase mask into discrete, manageable elements or zones that can be independently controlled or configured. This segmentation allows for simpler fabrication and adjustment of the phase mask while maintaining the overall encryption and interference mitigation functionality, reducing the practical complexity of implementation.
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 enhances decoding performance by minimizing interference and provides physical layer security, ensuring reliable communication even in the presence of strong sunlight and eavesdropping attempts.
Implementation Method 1
The phase pattern may be determined based on optical phase shift characteristics of a phase mask
Implementation Method 2
an optical-to-electrical (O-to-E) converter composed of at least one photodiode
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for transmitting and receiving signals in a wireless communication system, according to an embodiment of the present invention, may comprise a feature of applying a phase pattern to a wavefront of an optical signal and a feature of transmitting the optical signal. The phase pattern may be determined on the basis of an optical phase shift characteristic of a phase mask, and the phase mask may be determined on the basis of a quantization order and a phase order.