Laser Powered Actuator

Laser Power Transmission (LPT) emerges as a promising and efficient method for wireless power delivery, especially in long-distance applications and harsh environmental conditions. In comparison to other Wireless Power Transmission (WPT) methods, LPT boasts advantages such as a compact device size, focused transmitting direction, and high-power density. This PhD thesis provides an overview of LPT, elucidating the fundamental concepts of the photoelectric emitter, transmission channel, and receiver material. Additionally, it explores recent advancements in diode laser beam combining technology and high-efficiency multi-junction PV materials, discussing recommended LPT devices for simple applications such as laser-powered motors. The versatility of laser-powered actuators to wirelessly drive motors presents distinct advantages in scenarios characterized by high temperatures, radiation, and electromagnetic interference (EMI). A meticulous feedback mechanism is essential for precise motor speed control. This thesis examines wireless techniques for motor speed signal feedback in laser-powered actuators, detailing the structure of light signal transmission, including generation, modulation, and reception processes. A comparative analysis of motor speed collection methods with and without sensors is conducted, considering factors such as cost, reliability, integration, and efficiency. Through simulation, the steady-state characteristics of the system are analyzed under different load torque conditions. A robust speed control method is introduced, utilizing DC motor speed feedback to determine the laser on/off state for speed adjustment. Simulation results demonstrate stable speed control within the controllable range, showcasing the potential of LPT for reliable power delivery in challenging environments. An experiment is conducted to validate the simulation results, using a 150mW and 3W laser primarily to drive a DC motor with converted power from GaAs materials.