Quantum Sensor Layout for Wide Dynamic Range EM Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Quantum sensor systems face limitations in dynamic range due to saturation behavior and power broadening effects, making it difficult to distinguish between narrowband high-power and broadband lower-power signals.
Innovation Solution
A quantum sensor system with multiple quantum sensors arranged at different locations within an inhomogeneous electromagnetic field distribution, each interacting with the radiation to detect power levels, and a processor correlating these interactions to determine signal characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single quantum sensor is used to detect EM radiation, then the sensor can operate with simple structure, but the dynamic range is limited due to saturation behavior at high power levels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single quantum sensor into multiple quantum sensors (first and second quantum sensors) with different sensing volumes. This segmentation allows each sensor to operate in different power level ranges, thereby extending the overall dynamic range of the system while avoiding saturation effects that would limit a single sensor's performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension by positioning multiple quantum sensors at different locations within an inhomogeneous EM field distribution. This dimensional approach allows simultaneous measurement at different field strengths, effectively expanding the measurable power range without increasing temporal or spectral complexity.
2Power
If high-power EM radiation is applied to enhance signal detection, then the signal strength increases, but power broadening occurs which broadens the transition frequency and reduces spectral resolution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates an inhomogeneous EM field distribution where different spatial regions have different field amplitudes. The first quantum sensor is positioned in a region with higher field amplitude for detecting strong signals, while the second quantum sensor is positioned in a region with lower field amplitude for maintaining spectral resolution. This local quality differentiation allows the system to simultaneously achieve high signal strength detection and high spectral resolution without power broadening compromising either measurement.
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
Enhances the dynamic range of the quantum sensor system by allowing detection of radiation across varying power levels, avoiding saturation and power broadening issues.
Implementation Method 1
a quantum sensor which employs such a quantum system can detect EM radiation by resonant transitions between two energy states in the quantum system
Implementation Method 2
an element configured to shape and/or focus the EM radiation to generate an inhomogeneous field distribution in an area
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates a quantum sensor system for sensing electromagnetic, EM, radiation. The quantum sensor comprises an element configured to shape and/or focus the EM radiation to generate an inhomogeneous field distribution in an area; at least two quantum sensors which are arranged at different locations in the area, each of the quantum sensors comprising a sensing volume which is configured to interact with the EM radiation; at least one detector configured to detect an interaction of the EM radiation with each sensing volume, wherein the interaction is indicative of a power level of the EM radiation at the location of the respective sensing volume; and a processor which is configured to determine a signal characteristic of the EM radiation based on a correlation of the power levels at the locations of the sensing volumes.