Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems
Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems

Li-Fi Ligion®

Contactless Off-Axis Rotary Data Link

Li-Fi Ligion®

Contactless Off-Axis Rotary Data Link

Li-Fi Ligion® is a high-speed, contactless optical communication system designed for rotating or dynamic machine components. With multi-Gbps, bi-directional, full-duplex data transmission and support for multi-channel operation, it enables real-time communication across air gaps of several centimeters, ideal for slip-ring replacements or rotary interfaces. Its variable inner bore diameter (40 mm to 200 mm) allows easy integration into diverse mechanical setups, while patented optical technologies ensure robust, interference-free performance. Featuring ultra-low, deterministic latency (<<1 µs), compatibility with real-time industrial fieldbuses like Profinet, EtherCAT, EtherCat-G, and SERCOS III, and plug-and-play capability, RingLink delivers reliable, maintenance-free connectivity for advanced automation systems.

Features

  • Data rate: multi Gbps
  • Bi-directional, full-duplex
  • Multi-channel possible
  • Multiple patented technology
  • No interference issues
  • Variable inner bore diameter: 40mm … 200mm
  • Distance: contactless, distance of multiple cm
  • Ultra-low, deterministic latency (<<1us)
  • Compatible to industrial real-time field busses Profinet, EtherCAT, EtherCat-G,  SERCOS III, …
  • Plug and Play capable
  • Interface: Ethernet, Gigabit-Ethernet, USB3.0/3.1 and customized interfaces
  • Laser safety: Class 1
Li-Fi Ligion®
© Fraunhofer IPMS
Li-Fi Ligion®

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Applications for Ligion®

In environments where traditional wireless technologies fall short, our Li-Fi (Light Fidelity) solutions deliver secure, interference-free, and ultra-fast data communication using light. Our systems enable seamless connectivity in even the most challenging conditions.

Rotary joints

Ideal for use in rotary joints across industries such as manufacturing, wind power, and construction by enabling high-speed, contactless data transfer between rotating and stationary components. Maintenance-free operation, ultra-low latency, and immunity to dust, vibration, and electromagnetic interference.

Medical technology

Contactless, high-speed data transfer in medical imaging systems. Its bi-directional, low-latency communication replaces traditional slip rings, eliminating wear and reducing maintenance which is critical for continuous, precise operation in clinical environments.

Radar

In radar systems, Ligion provides ultra-low latency, multi-Gbps communication between rotating antennas and control electronics. Its contactless, interference-free design ensures uninterrupted signal flow even in high-vibration or outdoor environments, improving reliability and reducing mechanical failures.

Space

Ideal for space systems with rotating components, such as satellite instruments, solar arrays, or docking mechanisms. Its robust, maintenance-free operation, resistance to vacuum and radiation, and lack of moving electrical contacts make it well-suited for long-duration missions.

Defense

In defense applications, Ligion supports secure, real-time data transmission in turrets, sensor platforms, and mobile systems. Its high-speed, plug-and-play optical interface withstands harsh conditions and electromagnetic interference, ensuring reliable communication in critical mission scenarios.

Learn more about our comprehensive Li-Fi solutions

 

Li-Fi GigaDock®

High Performance Real-Time 
Short Range Data Link
 
  • Range: mm - cm
  • Data rate: up to 10 Gbps
  • Topology: Point-to-Point
more info
 

Li-Fi GigaCoupler

High-Speed, Short Range Optocoupler

  • Range: mm - 10 cm
  • Data rate: up to 10 Gbps
  • Topology: Point-to-Point
more info
 

Li-Fi Grathus®

High Performance Real-Time Data Link

 

  • Range: cm – 200m
  • Data rate: >1 Gbps
  • Topology: Point-to-Point
more info
 

Li-Fi GigaSpot

Robust Versatile Data Link

 

  • Range: cm – 30m
  • Data rate: up to 1 Gbps
  • Topology: Point-to-Point, Point-to-Multipoint
more info
 

Li-Fi Arthus

Low-Cost Real-Time Data Link

 

  • Range: cm – m
  • Data rate: 10 & 100 Mbps
  • Topology: Point-to-Point
more info
 

Li-Fi TinySpot

Ultra-Low Power Data Link

 

  • Range: mm – 2m
  • Data rate: up to 20 Mbps
  • Topology: Point-to-Point
more info
 

Li-Fi Pharlan®

Directional High Performance Data Link

 

  • Range: up to 300m
  • Data rate: ≥1 Gbps
  • Topology: Point-to-Point
more Info
 

Li-Fi Ligion®

Contactless Off-Axis Rotary Data Link

 

  • Range: up to multiple cm
  • Data rate: Multi Gbps
  • Topology: Point-to-Point
more info
 

Li-Fi PoL

Power & Data Dual Link

 

  • Range: up to 1m
  • Data rate: up to 10 Mbps
  • Topology: Point-to-Point
more Info
 

Underwater Technologies

High Performance Underwater Link

 

  • Range: up to 100 m
  • Data rate: up to 1 Gbps
  • Topology: Point-to-Multipoint
more Info

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