Phased arrays within phased arrays for smarter, greener indoor optical wireless networks

Imagine a future where indoor wireless communication systems handle skyrocketing data demands and do so with unmatched reliability and speed. Traditional radio frequency (RF) technologies like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are beginning to struggle, plagued by limited bandwidth and increasing signal congestion.

A new solution is emerging: Optical Wireless Communication (OWC) to meet the ever-growing need for faster, more dependable communication. This is where our research steps in.

By harnessing infrared (IR) technology, we have developed an advanced system that delivers robust, interference-free signal transmission. Our work introduces a transformative approach that enhances performance and addresses some of the biggest challenges conventional RF systems face.

Our research is published in the IEEE Journal of Lightwave Technology .

Phased arrays within phased arrays: Unmatched precision

At the heart of our innovation is a revolutionary concept—the “phased array within a phased array”—which parallels the quantum superposition principle in its technical execution. Just as quantum superposition allows a particle to exist in a combination of states, with its behavior determined by the state it assumes at a given time, our system operates through arrays of smaller, complex optical antennas nested within larger arrays.

These antennas are meticulously aligned on a flat surface, and their collective behavior creates a synergistic effect that amplifies and sharpens the IR signal with unprecedented precision.

Instead of relying on a single transmitter that is prone to interference or obstacles obstructing the line of sight, our system utilizes multiple clusters of transmitting elements. This redundancy, akin to the overlapping quantum states in superposition, ensures that the signal retains clarity and reliability, even in complex environments.

What distinguishes our approach is the use of dual transmission wavelengths, which optimizes both signal focus and stability. Even when the spacing between clusters is larger, this multi-cluster configuration allows for superior beam accuracy and significantly reduces the risk of signal fade.

Ant colony optimization (ACO): A greener, more intelligent network

Beyond signal performance, energy efficiency is a central feature of our system. To optimize resource usage, we employ an Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) algorithm. Inspired by ants searching for food, this algorithm intelligently directs the system to activate only the clusters necessary for transmission, like turning off unnecessary lights to conserve power.

Traditional wireless systems tend to waste energy by powering the entire network continuously, even when not needed. Our ACO-driven approach drastically reduces this energy consumption by selectively deactivating idle clusters, slashing operational costs and minimizing environmental impact. This is crucial as the world shifts toward greener, more sustainable technologies.

Impact on next-generation wireless networks

Our research opens the door to new possibilities for optical wireless networks, laying the groundwork for future advancements in communications technology. From health care environments, where reliable and secure communication is critical, to industrial and office spaces, the potential applications of this system are vast.

Importantly, our phased array design is not limited to infrared wavelengths. Our developed principles can be adapted for other wavelengths, offering versatility and scalability as the technology evolves.

This is about more than just achieving faster speeds or better performance. It is about reshaping how we connect and communicate, enabling smoother, more efficient, and more sustainable wireless networks for the future.

This story is part of Science X Dialog, where researchers can report findings from their published research articles. Visit this page for information about Science X Dialog and how to participate.