Spatial Interferometer Coherent Light Detection in High-Intensity Sunlight
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coherence detection methods, such as temporal scanning, are ineffective for detecting coherent light in the presence of high-intensity light, particularly in space or high orbit where sunlight is near a sensor boresight and wavelengths have not been filtered by the atmosphere, and are also inadequate for short pulsed lasers.
Innovation Solution
A spatial interferometer with multiple openings, a photo detector array, and a processor that integrates pixel outputs to determine coherent light directionality and wavelength by analyzing interference patterns without moving parts, using Fourier transforms to identify coherent light in the presence of incoherent high-intensity light.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If temporal scanning methods are used to detect coherent light, then the system can detect coherent light under normal conditions, but the system becomes ineffective in the presence of high-intensity light such as sunlight in space or high orbit
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection function into multiple spatial channels using an array of photodetectors, each detecting light from a different spatial location. The coherent light creates a specific spatial interference pattern across this array that can be distinguished from the uniform background of sunlight, enabling detection in high-intensity environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from temporal scanning (time domain) to spatial interferometry (space domain). By using multiple photodetectors arranged in space and analyzing the spatial interference pattern, the system can detect coherent light simultaneously without temporal scanning, making it effective for short pulsed lasers and resistant to high-intensity background light.
2Duration of action of moving object
If temporal scanning methods are used to detect coherent light, then the system can operate with continuous light sources, but the system becomes ineffective for short pulsed lasers that are discontinuous over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs the interference measurement simultaneously across all spatial channels at the moment the pulsed laser arrives, without requiring temporal scanning. This preliminary capture of the spatial interference pattern ensures that even extremely short pulsed laser signals are detected before they disappear, making the system effective for discontinuous light sources.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If spatial interferometer with multiple photodetectors is used, then the system can detect coherent light in high-intensity environments, but the device complexity increases compared to temporal scanning systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical temporal scanning mechanism with a static spatial interferometer and electronic signal processing. The array of photodetectors and processor analyze spatial interference patterns electronically, eliminating moving parts while achieving robust detection in high-intensity environments.
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 effective detection of coherent light in high-intensity environments, including space-based applications, by accurately determining wavelength and directionality through snapshot detection and Fourier transforms, facilitating communication links and alert systems.
Implementation Method 1
The coherent light interfering with itself to create a light fringe
Implementation Method 2
an array of pixels, each configured to detect an intensity of coherent light
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A method for detecting coherent light that includes configuring a spatial interferometer, receiving the coherent light through the spatial interferometer, and disposing a photo detector adjacent to the spatial interferometer. The spatial interferometer is configured such that a coherent light passing through the spatial interferometer interferes with itself. The interference of the coherent light with itself creates a light fringe. The light fringe projects onto the photo detector. The photo detector has an array of pixels operable to detect an intensity of coherent light. The array of pixels provides a plurality of outputs corresponding to coherent light received by discrete pixels of the array of pixels. The method includes determining an interference pattern of the light fringe based on the plurality of outputs of the array of pixels, and determining one or more wavelengths of the coherent light from the interference pattern.