Modeling turbulence in underwater wireless optical communications based on Monte Carlo simulation

Area of Science:

• Optical Engineering
• Fluid Dynamics
• Underwater Communications

Background:

• Underwater wireless optical communication (UWOC) performance is significantly impacted by turbulence.
• Existing physical simulation models do not adequately address turbulence effects in UWOC.
• A computationally efficient and accurate simulation model for UWOC in turbulent environments is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel Monte Carlo simulation model for UWOC in turbulent oceanic clear water.
• To provide a less computationally intensive alternative to computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approaches.
• To analyze the impact of refractive index variations on UWOC performance.

Main Methods:

• Development of a Monte Carlo simulation model based on refractive index variation in a horizontal link.
• Simulation of UWOC performance under weak and moderate turbulence regimes.
• Comparison of simulation results with experimental data for weak turbulence.

Main Results:

• The proposed model accurately reproduces the lognormal probability density function of received intensity for weak and moderate turbulence.
• Simulation outcomes align well with existing experimental data for weak turbulence.
• Scintillation index and turbulence-induced power loss are quantified against link span for varying refractive index changes.

Conclusions:

• The developed Monte Carlo model offers an efficient and accurate method for simulating UWOC in turbulent waters.
• The model provides valuable insights into turbulence-induced performance degradation in UWOC systems.
• This simulation approach can aid in the design and optimization of robust UWOC systems.