Multiplexing Sagnac Interferometers with Recovered Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
In fiber optic gyroscope systems, a significant amount of light is discarded by directional couplers, which reduces the efficiency of powering multiple fiber optic gyroscopes.
Innovation Solution
A configuration where a single light source is transmitted through a single optical conduit and split using multiple directional couplers to supply light to multiple Sagnac interferometers, with the discarded light being reused and optimized using coupling ratios and isolators to maximize signal delivery and minimize noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a directional coupler is used to direct light from the light source to the Sagnac interferometer, then the light path can be controlled and directed to the detector, but a significant amount of light is discarded before entering the interferometer, reducing system efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent recovers the light that would normally be discarded by the directional coupler by introducing an additional coupler that taps off a portion of the light after it passes through the Sagnac interferometer. This recovered light is then directed to a second detector, thereby utilizing previously wasted light resources and improving overall system efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
An additional directional coupler is introduced as an intermediary component between the Sagnac interferometer and the detection system. This intermediary element enables the extraction and redirection of light that would otherwise be lost, facilitating the recovery and useful utilization of discarded optical energy.
2Reliability
If multiple fiber optic gyroscopes are powered by separate light sources, then each gyroscope can operate independently with sufficient light intensity, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes a single light source serve multiple functions by using it to power multiple Sagnac interferometers through a network of directional couplers. This multi-functional approach allows one light source to replace what would traditionally require multiple separate sources, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining the ability to independently measure rotation in multiple gyroscopes.
Solution Approach 2:
The light from a single source is segmented into multiple paths using directional couplers, with each path leading to a separate Sagnac interferometer. This segmentation allows the light to be distributed to multiple independent measurement channels, enabling multiple gyroscopes to operate from a single light source while maintaining independent measurement capabilities.
3Measurement precision
If more light is directed to multiple Sagnac interferometers, then each interferometer receives sufficient light for accurate measurement, but the light from the single source becomes insufficient when split among multiple paths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous useful action by recovering and reutilizing light after it passes through the Sagnac interferometer. Instead of allowing the light to be completely discarded after a single use, the additional coupler enables the light to continue being useful by directing a portion of it to a second detector, thereby extending the useful life and effectiveness of each photon in the measurement process.
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 effectively utilizes previously discarded light to power multiple fiber optic gyroscopes, reducing noise and maximizing signal strength, thereby enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of rotation measurement.
Implementation Method 1
A first directional coupler receives the source light and splits the source light into a second light beam and a third light beam
Implementation Method 2
A fiber optic gyro (FOG) Sagnac interferometer is used to measure rotation
Implementation Method 3
using coupling ratios and isolators to maximize signal delivery and minimize noise
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for transmitting source light to a plurality of Sagnac interferometers includes a first directional coupler that splits the source light into a second light beam and a third light beam. The second light beam supplies light to a first Sagnac interferometer and the second light beam supplies light to a second directional coupler, and the first directional coupler also delivers light returning from the first Sagnac interferometer to a first detector that is used to indicate rotation of the first Sagnac interferometer. The second directional coupler splits the third light beam into a fourth light beam and a fifth light beam, and the fourth light beam supplies light to a second Sagnac interferometer. The second directional coupler delivers light returning from the second Sagnac interferometer to a second detector, and the second detector provides a signal indicative of rotation of the second Sagnac interferometer.