An all-light network developed in China enables uninterrupted data exchange across air, land, and underwater environments, even on moving vehicles.
Researchers at Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, China have discovered a prototype all-light communication network capable of maintaining seamless connectivity across diverse environments, including air, land, and underwater. This innovation, powered by advanced optical systems, promises real-time data transmission even in dynamic and challenging scenarios like emergency response and navigation.
“Our all-light wireless network combines different light sources to ensure uninterrupted connectivity while also dynamically aligning optical paths between moving nodes,” explained Yongwin Wang, the lead researcher. The system integrates various light-based technologies to support two-way real-time communication, ensuring reliable data exchange regardless of environmental conditions. Potential users include emergency responders, maritime operators, and researchers, who require robust communication tools in unpredictable or remote locations.
The research demonstrated bidirectional light transmission between two moving vehicles. Using a combination of green, blue, and ultraviolet light, the network successfully connected nodes across air and underwater spaces. “This could transform the way mobile networks operate,” added Wang, emphasising the system’s potential to revolutionise communications for drones, ships, and vehicles.
A key advancement lies in overcoming the challenge of dynamic optical path alignment. “In this work, we solve the challenging issue of dynamic optical path alignment to achieve mobile full-duplex light communication,” noted Wang. The researchers implemented a three-axis gimbal stabiliser equipped with an image identification module to maintain precise optical alignment, enabling seamless bidirectional communication under the TCP/IP scheme.
The prototype also integrates various light technologies, including a solar-blind deep ultraviolet communication system and an 850nm laser diode for data reception. Ethernet switches link these systems to devices like sensors and computers, ensuring balanced data flow and real-time transmission without delays.
Field tests demonstrated the network’s ability to transmit video and audio seamlessly across air and underwater environments, achieving modulation bandwidths of up to 4Mbps. Future plans include merging this system with radio, sonar, and gas communication technologies for a comprehensive communication framework.
“Such sophisticated all-light interconnection networks could pave the way for advanced computing and information systems,” Wang concluded.
