Simultaneous Multi-Channel Optical Communications System with Beam Pointing, Switching, and Tracking Using Moving Focal Plane Devices

摘要

A communications system made up of a number of multi-channel optical node (MCON) platforms uses free space optical communications terminals that have the ability to track, detect, measure, and respond to the acceleration or movement of the platform. Instead of using mirrors or traditional beam steering techniques, the platform uses a series of telecentric lens systems to re-align the focal plane such that beams are maintained in original pointing directions. A network of control systems is used to detect and measure movement of the platform, to re-align the platform after such movement, and to maintain connection with a number of other MCON platforms.

主权项

1. A communications system comprising a plurality of multi-channel optical node platforms, wherein one of said plurality of multi-channel optical node platform comprises:
a. a plurality of free space optical communications terminals, wherein said plurality of free space optical communications terminals comprises a plurality of transmitters and a plurality of receivers, wherein said plurality of transmitters transmit an output signal in an original output direction and wherein said plurality of receivers receive an input signal at an original input direction, further wherein said plurality of free space optical communications terminals comprises a focal plane; b. a movement measuring control system, wherein said movement measuring control system measures a first movement of said focal plane in three orthogonal linear and three orthogonal rotational degrees of motion, thereby generating a movement measurement; c. a tracking control system; d. a tracking-detection control system; e. a plurality of precision accelerometer inertial measurement units; f. an electronic inertial measurement unit signal processor; g. an optical beam connection control system; h. a global positioning satellite data system; and i. an inertial measurement system;