Deep Learning for Tuning Optical Beamforming Networks

Abstract

In communication between planes and satellites, Optical Beamforming Networks (OBFNs), which rely on many small and flat Phased Array Antennas (PAAs), need to be tuned in order to receive signals from specific angles. In this paper, we develop a deep neural network representation of tuning OBFNs. The problem of tuning an OBFN is in many aspects similar to training a deep neural network. We present a way to exploit the special structure of OBFNs into deep neural network and an algorithm for tuning OBFNs based on feedback that can be easily measured in real system. Training data, which consists of full signals, can be measured, and therefore is used in this paper. For pilot signals, the desired signal is known explicitly. Given the configuration of OBFNs and all nominal parameters required, it was verified in simulation that the deep neural network can be used to tune large scale OBFNs for any desired delays.