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Apparatus and method for safe, free space laser communication

  • US 5,229,593 A
  • Filed: 10/08/1991
  • Issued: 07/20/1993
  • Est. Priority Date: 10/08/1991
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A laser communication terminal for free space communications with a corresponding remotely positioned terminal, said laser communication terminal comprising:

  • a transmitter including means for generating and coupling a stationary output laser beam into free space;

    a receiver including means for collecting a stationary input laser beam from free space;

    detector means, cooperating with said receiver, for detecting blockage or misalignment of the stationary output laser beam into free space based upon the stationary input laser beam collected from free space; and

    safety control means, cooperating with said transmitter and responsive to said detector means, for operating said transmitter above a predetermined average power level corresponding to a safe exposure level and exposure time for an accidental observer of the stationary output laser beam during normal operation when no blockage or misalignment of the stationary output laser beam is detected to thereby provide enhanced communication performance for the laser communication terminal, said safety control means further for operating the transmitter below the predetermined average power level corresponding to the safe exposure level and exposure time for an accidental observer when a blockage or misalignment of the stationary output laser beam is detected to thereby protect the eyes of an accidental observer.

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