Context, Design and Implementation of a Control System : for ring resonator-based optical beam forming networks

Beam shaping and beam steering, together called beamforming, is needed when processing radio-frequency signals from phased array antennas. This can be achieved in the optical domain, by tuning an OBFN. The tuning of such a network is the task of a control system. That system is the topic of research in this assignment. It enables thermo-optical tuning of ring resonator based OBFNs. The context, design and implementation of the control system are studied. Measurements are described to show the correct working of the implemented prototype. The control system may be used in the future in an airborne application, and may form part of a system that provides services such as radio, television, and internet access to en route aircraft. The control system consists of a controller and an interface to operate it. The controller has hardware and software aspects. The hardware is a modular set of components that can easily be extended when necessary. The software in the controller operates the hardware and provides the means for tuning OBFNs. An easy-to-use Java-based graphical interface is provided on a PC to operate the controller.