US 12,309,265 B2
Quantum communication system that switches between quantum key distribution (QKD) protocols and associated methods
Victor G. Bucklew, Richmond, VA (US); James A. Nagel, Fort Wayne, IN (US); and Michael R. Lange, Melbourne, FL (US)
Assigned to EAGLE TECHNOLOGY, LLC, Melbourne, FL (US)
Filed by EAGLE TECHNOLOGY, LLC, Melbourne, FL (US)
Filed on Feb. 15, 2024, as Appl. No. 18/442,212.
Application 18/442,212 is a continuation of application No. 17/851,769, filed on Jun. 28, 2022, granted, now 11,930,106.
Application 17/851,769 is a continuation of application No. 16/658,398, filed on Oct. 21, 2019, granted, now 11,418,330, issued on Aug. 16, 2022.
Prior Publication US 2025/0080336 A1, Mar. 6, 2025
This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.
Int. Cl. H04L 9/08 (2006.01); H04B 10/70 (2013.01); H04L 9/12 (2006.01)
CPC H04L 9/0852 (2013.01) [H04B 10/70 (2013.01); H04L 9/12 (2013.01)] 30 Claims
OG exemplary drawing
 
1. A quantum communications system comprising:
a communications system; and
a quantum key distribution (QKD) system operable with the communications system and comprising a transmitter node, a receiver node, and a quantum communications channel coupling the transmitter node and receiver node;
the transmitter node configured to
transmit optical pulses to the receiver node, and
switch between different QKD protocols based upon a channel condition and a time period.