Dynamic Target Localization and Optical Link Maintenance Using a 2D Beam Scanning System for IoT Connectivity

Optical wireless communication (OWC) is gaining momentum as a key enabler for next-generation indoor Internet of Things (IoT) systems, offering high-bandwidth, low-latency, and interference-free connectivity by leveraging its inherent line-of-sight nature. Its versatility makes it attractive for a wide range of dynamic applications, including flexible interconnects in data centers, high-speed data delivery to mobile devices, and communication with cooperative robots. However, conventional solutions still face critical challenges. Visible light communication and positioning (VLCP) is constrained by limited modulation bandwidth and a trade-off between localization precision and data rate, while laser-based OWC systems often suffer from alignment sensitivity, making them less effective in dynamic or mobile scenarios. To overcome these barriers, we present a dynamic localization and two-dimensional (2D) beam scanning communication system based on a single tunable MEMS vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (MEMS-VCSEL) integrated with a corner cube reflector (CCR). This compact, coaxial optical architecture enables precise real-time tracking and continuous beam alignment without relying on external sensors. A Search-and-Communicate mechanism facilitates autonomous target acquisition and link maintenance. Experimental validation demonstrates sub-3 mm tracking error, stable communication over a 3-meter communication link achieving data rates up to 3.4 Gbps-while the target is in motion.