RF-to-Optical Sensor Merging for Resolution and Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sensors capable of determining direction and range with imaging capabilities are limited by their operating range and spatial resolution, often requiring multiple sensors operating in different wavelength ranges and modes, which can be complex and require precise alignment and significant signal processing.
Innovation Solution
A sensing system combining an imaging radio frequency receiver, an imaging optical receiver, an optical beam combiner, an optical detector array, and a processing circuit to form optical images of both radio frequency and optical scenes, using phase-preserving frequency converters and wavelength-dependent transmissivity in the optical beam combiner to integrate signals from different sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sensors operating in single modes in single wavelength ranges are combined, then the sensor can operate in multiple wavelength ranges and modes, but the alignment between sensors must be well known and significant signal processing is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines radio frequency and optical sensing capabilities into a single sensor platform that shares common components (optical detector array, processing circuit). The RF receiver converts RF signals to optical signals that are then combined with direct optical signals on the same detector array, eliminating the need for separate sensors and reducing alignment complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical detector array serves dual functions by detecting both converted RF signals and direct optical signals. The processing circuit handles both RF and optical data streams, creating a universal platform that can operate in multiple wavelength ranges and modes without requiring separate specialized sensors.
2Measurement precision
If visible and infrared wavelength sensors are used, then spatial resolution is relatively good, but operating range is degraded by aerosols or particulates
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the wavelength parameter by operating in both visible/infrared ranges and radio frequency ranges. RF wavelengths are much longer and penetrate aerosols and particulates effectively, while visible/infrared provide high spatial resolution when conditions permit. The system adapts between these parameter regimes based on atmospheric conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensing system uses a composite approach by integrating sensors operating at different wavelength regimes (RF and optical) into a single platform. This composite sensing capability allows the system to leverage the penetration advantages of RF through adverse atmospheric conditions while maintaining the high spatial resolution capabilities of optical sensors when conditions are favorable.
3Reliability
If radio frequency sensors are used, then operating range is much longer, but spatial resolution is relatively poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges RF sensing and optical sensing into a single integrated system where both types of data are processed together. The RF component provides long-range detection capability while the optical component provides high spatial resolution. By combining these complementary capabilities in one sensor platform, the system achieves both long operating range and high spatial resolution simultaneously.
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
Enables a versatile sensor capable of operating in multiple wavelength ranges and modes, providing high spatial resolution and range information with reduced complexity and alignment requirements, effectively addressing the limitations of existing sensors.
Implementation Method 1
an optical beam combiner configured to combine: an optical signal of the imaging radio frequency receiver, and an optical signal of the imaging optical receiver
Implementation Method 2
each of the phase-preserving frequency converters being connected to a respective one of the receiving antenna elements and configured to convert a radio frequency signal from the respective one of the receiving antenna elements to a corresponding optical signal, having a phase corresponding to a phase of the radio frequency signal
Implementation Method 3
a modulator for modulating the optical local oscillator signal to form a modulated optical signal
Implementation Method 4
a filter for passing a first modulation sideband of the modulated optical signal and blocking: a carrier of the of the modulated optical signal and a second sideband of the modulated optical signal
Implementation Method 5
an optical detector array configured to detect optical signals from the imaging optical receiver and converted optical signals from the imaging radio frequency receiver
Data Source
AI summary
A sensing system. In some embodiments, the sensing system includes an imaging radio frequency receiver, an imaging radio frequency to optical converter, an imaging optical receiver, an optical beam combiner, and an imaging optical detector. The optical beam combiner is configured to combine an optical signal of the imaging radio frequency to optical converter, and an optical signal of the imaging optical receiver. In operation, the imaging radio frequency receiver, the imaging radio frequency to optical converter, and the optical beam combiner together form, on the imaging optical detector, an optical image of a radio frequency scene within a field of view of the imaging radio frequency receiver, and the imaging optical receiver and the optical beam combiner together form, on the imaging optical detector, an optical image of an optical scene within a field of view of the imaging optical receiver.