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Continuous adaptive beam pointing and tracking for laser power transmission
1Space Communications Group, New Generation Wireless Communications Research Center, National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, Koganei, Tokyo, Japan. Schaefer@nict.go.jp
Optics Express
|July 1, 2010
Summary
This study revisits adaptive beam pointing for controlled laser energy transmission. A novel system uses a retro-reflector and amplifier-phase conjugate mirror (A-PCM) for stable, efficient free-space power beaming.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Laser Technology
- Wireless Power Transmission
Background:
- Free-space laser power transmission is crucial for space applications, enabling energy delivery from satellites to Earth.
- Maintaining a stable, bidirectional link for energy transfer and feedback is a key challenge.
- Adaptive beam pointing systems are essential for accurate energy delivery to distant targets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To revisit and enhance the adaptive beam pointing concept for controlled laser energy transmission.
- To establish a stable, bidirectional link using a retro-reflector and an amplifier-phase conjugate mirror (A-PCM).
- To investigate the potential for simultaneous energy reconversion and accurate target tracking.
Main Methods:
- Derivation of basic arithmetic expressions for the proposed system.
- Development of a free-space laser power transmission model for satellite-to-Earth scenarios.
- Experimental realization of an A-PCM setup using a semiconductor optical amplifier and a photorefractive self-pumped PCM.
Main Results:
- A stable bidirectional link was maintained by optimizing the retro-reflector aperture.
- The A-PCM setup achieved a reflectivity of approximately R(A-PCM) = 100.
- Simulations indicate potential for R(A-PCM) > 1000 and transmission efficiency (eta) > 90% with improved PCM efficiency.
Conclusions:
- The revisited adaptive beam pointing concept offers a viable solution for controlled free-space laser energy transmission.
- The A-PCM system effectively compensates for amplifier distortions and ensures accurate target tracking.
- Further improvements in self-pumped PCM efficiency can significantly enhance overall transmission efficiency for space-based power beaming applications.
