Auto-Configurable Optical Linking Modules for Mobile Free Space Optical Communications

Existence of line of sight (LOS) and perfect alignment between the communicating modules is one of the key requirements for free space optical communication. To ensure uninterrupted data flow, auto-aligning transmitter and receiver modules are necessary. We propose a new approach based on spherically shaped transmitter and receiver modules (optical antenna) for maintaining optical links even when the two modules are in relative motion. The spherical optical antenna provides angular diversity in 3-dimensions, and hence provides a line of sight at any orientation as long as there are no obstacles between the two communicating modules. To demonstrate the proof-of-concept, we designed and tested an auto-configurable circuit integrated with light sources and detectors placed on spherical surfaces. Communication between a stationary and a mobile optical antenna has been demonstrated.