Micro LED HAPS
Project Brief:
In a consortium led by Fraunhofer CAP, Wideblue contributed our engineering expertise to the development of Micro LEDs for use in long-range optical communication systems deployed in airborne platforms. The project explored how emerging Micro LED technology can enable rapidly deployable communication systems by using low Size, Weight and Power (SWaP) solutions.
This technology has the potential to transform communication systems, particularly in time-critical scenarios such as disaster recovery and emergency response, where lightweight, energy-efficient, and reliable airborne systems are essential.
Wideblue was responsible for the mechanical and optomechanical design of the system, including the external enclosure, a precision gimbal for optical pointing, and high accuracy optomechanical assemblies. These elements were critical to maintaining the extremely tight alignment required for long-range optical transmission using very narrow beam angles, even in the challenging dynamic environment of an airborne platform.
Our Approach:
Wideblue’s mechanical design team began by working closely with consortium partners to understand the physical constraints and performance requirements of the electronic and optical subsystems. From this, we defined an enclosure architecture that balanced structural rigidity, minimal mass, and environmental protection, ensuring suitability for airborne deployment.
A key technical challenge was achieving ultra-precise optical pointing. To address this, we designed and integrated a high-precision, top-hung gimbal system, capable of accurately orienting the entire optical assembly while suspended from an aircraft. The gimbal provided pointing accuracy within 0.1 degrees, enabling stable alignment of the optical path under operational conditions.
Complementing the gimbal, Wideblue engineered bespoke high precision optomechanical mounts to align and securely retain the optical components. These designs ensured long-term stability and repeatability, safeguarding system performance despite vibration, motion, and environmental stresses.
Through a combination of innovative mechanical design, precision engineering, and close collaboration with leading research partners, Wideblue helped advance a next-generation optical communication solution with clear real-world impact.