Space Laser Optical MIMO Relay for Full-Duplex Satellite Links
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional radio frequency-based satellite communication systems face limitations in communication distance, bandwidth, size, weight, and power consumption, and single-input single-output (SISO) satellite communication systems have limitations in scalability, efficiency, and reliability in various space environments.
Innovation Solution
A space laser communication device utilizing optical multiple input multiple output (MIMO)-relay technology with at least two optical systems and a motion control device for precise optical alignment, enabling full-duplex data communication and tracking beacons without additional systems, reducing electrical/optical elements, and supporting efficient network expansion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If SISO (single-input single-output) communication is used, then device complexity is reduced, but scalability and reliability in various space environments deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the communication system into multiple independent optical channels (first optical channel for full-duplex communication, second optical channel for relay communication), each handled by separate optical systems. This segmentation allows the system to achieve MIMO functionality while maintaining manageable complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal optical system that can perform multiple functions: full-duplex communication, relay communication, and tracking beacon operations. The motion control device and optical systems are designed to handle diverse communication modes (SISO, MIMO, full-duplex, half-duplex) through a unified platform, enhancing adaptability without requiring separate dedicated systems for each function.
2Reliability
If additional optical systems are added for MIMO communication, then communication reliability and capacity improve, but device complexity and SWaP increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple optical systems into a coordinated operation under a single motion control device. The first and second optical systems work together to achieve MIMO communication, with the motion control device synchronizing their operations. This merging approach achieves enhanced reliability through multiple channels while avoiding the complexity of completely independent systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The motion control device acts as an intermediary that coordinates and controls multiple optical systems, enabling them to function as a unified MIMO system. It manages the alignment and operation of multiple optical channels, reducing the overall system complexity by centralizing control rather than requiring separate control mechanisms for each optical system.
3Measurement precision
If separate beacon beam subsystem is added for LoS alignment, then alignment precision improves, but device complexity and SWaP increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal optical system that performs multiple functions including data communication and tracking beacon operations through the same optical path. The motion control device enables the system to switch between full-duplex communication mode and relay communication mode, as well as perform alignment functions, eliminating the need for separate dedicated beacon subsystems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the alignment function with the communication function by using the same optical systems for both purposes. The motion control device facilitates this by coordinating the optical systems to first establish alignment through beacon signals, then transition to data communication mode, thereby achieving precise alignment without requiring separate physical subsystems.
4Productivity
If full-duplex communication is implemented, then communication efficiency improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication into distinct temporal and spatial channels: the first optical channel handles full-duplex communication with independent transmit and receive paths, while the second optical channel handles relay communication. This segmentation allows full-duplex operation to be achieved without requiring complex protocol management, as each channel operates independently with well-defined functions.
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 scalability, efficiency, and reliability of satellite communication networks by allowing simultaneous full-duplex data communication, maintaining line of sight alignment, and compensating for signal delays in dynamic environments, while reducing size, weight, and power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
performing optical alignment so that one of the at least two optical systems performs optical multiple input multiple output (MIMO)-based full-duplex communication with another space laser communication device, based on motion control by the motion control device
Implementation Method 2
space laser communication uses a laser beam having straightness and a narrow divergence angle, and thus, is capable of long-distance transmission
Data Source
AI summary
An operating method of a space laser communication device is provided. The operating method includes a step of performing optical alignment so that one of optical systems performs optical multiple input multiple output (MIMO)-based full-duplex communication with another space laser communication device, based on motion control by a motion control device and a step of performing optical alignment so that the other optical system of the optical systems performs optical MIMO-based relay communication with another space laser communication device, based on motion control by the motion control device.