Underwater Optical Data Link Using LED Transmitter and Photodiode Receiver
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for collecting and transmitting data from subjects moving in underwater environments are unable to provide real-time data transmission capable of supporting modern and 'smart' applications, and are limited by the radio frequency spectrum's capacity and susceptibility to interference.
Innovation Solution
A wireless optical telecommunication system using a Light Emitting Diode (LED) transmitter and a photodiode receiver to collect and transmit data in real-time underwater, allowing for continuous monitoring and analysis of biometric and environmental parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If radio frequency spectrum is used to transmit data underwater, then communication can be established, but the data transmission capacity is limited and the system is susceptible to interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the transmission medium parameter from radio frequency electromagnetic waves to optical waves (visible light spectrum). This parameter change enables higher data transmission capacity and immunity to radio frequency interference while maintaining reliable underwater communication through optical detection and ranging (ODR) technology
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the electromagnetic field-based radio frequency transmission with an optical field-based transmission system. By using LEDs to generate optical signals and photodetectors to receive them, the system replaces the traditional RF mechanical/electromagnetic transmission mechanism with an optical one, achieving superior data capacity and interference resistance
2Loss of time
If real-time data transmission is implemented underwater, then continuous monitoring is achieved, but the complexity of the communication system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses excessive action by employing multiple LEDs arranged in arrays and multiple photodetectors to ensure sufficient optical signal strength for real-time transmission. This redundancy compensates for signal attenuation in water and enables continuous real-time monitoring without excessive system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical modulators and demodulators as intermediary devices that convert electrical signals to optical signals and back. These intermediaries enable real-time data transmission while managing system complexity through standardized optical communication protocols and components
3Productivity
If optical spectrum is used for data transmission, then high data rate is achieved, but the system requires precise alignment and positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a temporal dimension to the optical alignment problem by using time-synchronized optical pulses and modulation schemes. This allows the system to achieve high data rates while tolerating certain alignment variations through time-based signal processing and synchronization protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through automatic gain control, signal strength monitoring, and adaptive modulation. These feedback systems continuously adjust transmission parameters to maintain optimal performance, reducing the need for precise manual alignment and positioning while sustaining high data transmission rates
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 real-time data transmission and monitoring of subjects and environmental parameters in underwater environments, supporting high data rate communication, reducing the need for licenses, and ensuring safety and reliability for living organisms.
Implementation Method 1
the underwater subject has a Light Emitting Diode (LED) transmitter which transmits the information collected by sensors by modulating the light it emits
Implementation Method 2
this information is received by a photodiode which is also located in the underwater environment
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention includes a low power method and system, capable of collecting data through sensors (1) mounted on a device carrying subjects which are capable of moving in an underwater environment, and transmitting them to an aquatic environment by means of a transmitter with LED (6) by modulating its emitted light. The emitted signal from the LED is received by a photodiode (7) placed within the water channel and demodulated to retrieve the data collected by the sensors. This data is transmitted, de-noise and displayed on a computer (9) where they can be monitored in real time. This system is suitable for a variety of applications, such as monitoring biometric parameters of bathers. It can also be applied to underwater robotic systems to collect and monitor data related to the aquatic environment.p