VCSEL Array Optical Communication for Low Power Exoatmospheric Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for low power and low footprint optical communication technologies that support short to medium range exoatmospheric communications with radiation hardenable components, providing bidirectional communication with nearly spherical coverage and the ability to locate and track vehicles if their location is lost.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a Low Power Angular Spectrum Steered (LPASS) optical communication system using a dense array of VCSELs near the back focal plane of an infinite conjugate imager, which maps each VCSEL into a narrow beam, allowing for efficient coverage of a wide area with reduced power dissipation, and the integration of radiation hardenable retromodulator technology for increased system flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If traditional optical communication systems are used, then communication capability is provided, but power consumption is high and footprint is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical communication system into multiple VCSELs arranged in an array, where each VCSEL can be independently controlled to emit light in a specific direction. This segmentation allows the system to transmit communication signals using only the minimum necessary number of VCSELs at any given time, rather than requiring all VCSELs to operate simultaneously, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining communication capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic beam steering by electronically controlling which VCSELs are activated and at what power levels, allowing the optical beam to be dynamically directed toward moving vehicles. This dynamic operation enables the system to maintain effective communication with moving targets without requiring high power from all VCSELs continuously, thus reducing power dissipation while preserving communication productivity
2Area of stationary object
If traditional optical communication systems are used, then communication capability is provided, but device footprint is large
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple VCSELs into a single integrated array structure that shares common control electronics and optical pathways. By combining these elements into a compact array, the system achieves wide angular coverage and robust communication capability without proportionally increasing the device footprint, as the VCSELs are densely packed and share infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent arranges VCSELs in a two-dimensional array configuration rather than a linear arrangement, enabling the system to achieve wide angular coverage in both horizontal and vertical dimensions simultaneously. This dimensional arrangement allows compact packaging of multiple emitters in a small footprint area while maintaining the ability to steer beams across wide angles for effective communication
3Area of moving object
If VCSEL array is used for wide area coverage, then coverage area is increased, but power dissipation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by activating only specific VCSELs within the array that are necessary to cover the current field of view and track the target vehicle. Rather than operating all VCSELs at full power, the system selectively enables only the local subset of VCSELs needed for current communication requirements, thereby maintaining wide area coverage capability while minimizing overall power dissipation
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
The LPASS system achieves bidirectional communication with low power dissipation and small footprints, enabling efficient tracking and location of vehicles while providing nearly spherical coverage, and extends communication range through the use of high power diode or fiber lasers.
Implementation Method 1
a dense array of VCSELs near the back focal plane of an infinite conjugate imager, which maps each VCSEL into a narrow beam
Data Source
AI summary
Low power and/or low footprint optical communication technologies that support short to medium range exoatmospheric communications and provide bidirectional communication with nearly spherical coverage.