Optical Phased Array Transmitter for Space Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current radio frequency (RF) communication systems for low Earth orbit small satellites and geostationary satellites face limitations in data rates and capacity, and require mechanical gimbals for signal capture, which are impractical for space and weight-constrained applications like aircraft and UAVs.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an optical communications transmitter using an optical phased array that modifies the relative phase of light input without mechanical devices, combined with an optical receiver that uses waveguides and liquid crystal switches to redirect optical signals from various angles, allowing for efficient data transmission and reception without mechanical means.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical gimbals are used for signal capture in RF systems, then the field of view can be scanned through a range of angles, but the device becomes too heavy and complex for space-constrained applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical gimbals with an optical phased array that uses electronic phase control to steer beams. The optical phased array modifies the relative phase of light from multiple optical fibers to electronically scan the field of view without any moving mechanical parts, thereby eliminating the weight and complexity of mechanical gimbal systems while maintaining angular scanning capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters from RF frequencies to optical frequencies, and from mechanical beam steering to electronic phase control. By modifying the phase parameters of light waves through electronic control rather than mechanical movement, the system achieves field of view scanning without the weight penalty of mechanical components
2Device complexity
If a single aperture telescope is used for signal capture, then the system structure is simplified, but the data rates and data capacity are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single aperture into multiple smaller apertures arranged in an array. Each optical fiber in the array corresponds to a separate aperture element, allowing parallel signal transmission through multiple channels. This segmentation enables higher data rates by transmitting multiple data streams simultaneously while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The optical phased array serves multiple functions: it acts as both a beam forming network and a phase control system. The same array structure enables both signal transmission and electronic beam steering, eliminating the need for separate mechanical scanning mechanisms and increasing data capacity through multi-channel operation
3Ease of manufacture
If mechanical components are used in transceivers for aircraft and UAVs, then the system is easier to manufacture, but the device becomes impractical for space and weight-constrained applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical components with solid-state optical elements. The optical phased array uses electronic phase modulators integrated with optical fibers, eliminating mechanical moving parts. This substitution reduces the physical volume of the transceiver while maintaining manufacturability through standard optical fabrication techniques
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs integrated optical circuits and thin-film optical elements that can be fabricated on compact substrates. The optical phased array can be implemented using planar light-wave circuits or integrated photonic devices, reducing the overall volume of the transceiver compared to bulk mechanical systems
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 enables higher data transmission rates and efficiency in optical communication systems, eliminating the need for mechanical components and expanding capabilities beyond RF systems, particularly in space and weight-constrained environments.
Implementation Method 1
The optical phased array is configured for modifying a relative phase of the light input such that the light output exhibits a predetermined far-field intensity pattern
Implementation Method 2
The waveguide is configured for selectively directing optical signals incident thereon toward the receiver, while passing visible light through to the internal window
Implementation Method 3
The optical switch is configured for redirecting optical signals from a plurality of incidence angles into an input ray having an angle within a range of acceptance angles for the waveguide
Data Source
AI summary
An optical communications transmitter for use in free space communication from the transmitter to a receiver, the transmitter including a light input and an optical fiber array for directing the light input. The optical communications transmitter further includes an optical phased array for receiving the light input from the optical fiber array and transmitting a light output, the optical phased array being configured for modifying a relative phase of the light input such that the light output exhibits a predetermined far-field intensity pattern.