425 Nm Wavelength Reference Using Chromium Fluorescence Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a gap in wavelength references for the blue-violet light band of 400 nm-435 nm, limiting the accuracy and consistency of nanoscale geometric measurement testing, and existing technologies fail to provide a reliable method for measuring the transition (7S3-7P4) frequency of chromium atoms.

Innovation Solution

A device and method utilizing a continuously tunable laser, atomic furnace, optical frequency comb, and fluorescence-induced effect to construct a 425 nm wavelength reference, employing a frequency doubling optical path, bias-preserving fiber beam splitters and combiners, and beat-frequency detection to measure the transition (7S3-7P4) frequency of chromium atoms.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If existing wavelength reference technologies are used, then measurement capability in other wavelength bands is maintained, but there is a gap in the blue-violet light wavelength band of 400 nm-435 nm

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewavelength reference accuracyVSAvoidwavelength band coverage
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the physical parameters of the measurement system by introducing a continuously tunable laser that can operate across the blue-violet wavelength band (400-435 nm). By adjusting the laser wavelength parameter and using frequency doubling technology, the system achieves comprehensive coverage of the previously inaccessible wavelength range while maintaining measurement precision through atomic resonance detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If atomic lithography and soft X-ray interference technology are used to prepare self-traceable grating standards, then measurement accuracy is improved to 0.001 nm order, but the wavelength reference gap in blue-violet band remains

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegrating standard accuracyVSAvoidwavelength band applicability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces chromium atom fluorescence as an intermediary reference standard. The chromium atom transition frequency serves as a natural frequency reference that bridges the gap between existing wavelength standards and the blue-violet band requirements. This intermediary enables accurate wavelength measurement in the 400-435 nm range without requiring physical gratings for every wavelength point.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a continuously tunable laser is used to cover the blue-violet band, then wavelength band coverage is improved, but measurement precision requires new reference construction methods

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewavelength band coverageVSAvoidwavelength reference accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the chromium atom fluorescence signal provides real-time information about laser wavelength accuracy. The detected fluorescence intensity serves as feedback to adjust and lock the laser wavelength to the precise chromium transition frequency, ensuring measurement precision is maintained across the entire blue-violet wavelength band.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The method and device enable precise measurement of the transition (7S3-7P4) frequency of chromium atoms, enhancing the stability and accuracy of nanoscale geometric measurement testing by establishing a reliable wavelength reference in the blue-violet band.

Implementation Method 1

a set of opposite-direction propagating lasers interact with the chromium atomic beam and symmetrically sensitize two fluorescent spots on both sides of a central axis of the chromium atomic beam

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFluorescence: Fluorescence

Implementation Method 2

employing a frequency doubling optical path

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFrequency doubling: Second Harmonic Generation

Implementation Method 3

employing a frequency doubling optical path, bias-preserving fiber beam splitters and combiners, and beat-frequency detection to measure the transition (7S3-7P4) frequency of chromium atoms

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBeat frequency detection: Beat (acoustics)

Data Source

PatentUS20260056053A1Methods and devices of 425nm wavelength reference construction based on fluorescence-induced effect
Publication Date: 2026.02.26 TONGJI UNIV
  • US20260056053A1 patent drawing
  • US20260056053A1 patent drawing
  • US20260056053A1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a method and a device of a 425 nm wavelength reference construction based on fluorescence-induced effect. The method comprises: a continuously tunable laser, an atomic furnace, a chromium atomic beam, an optical frequency comb, a frequency doubling optical path, a bias-preserving fiber beam splitter, a bias-preserving fiber beam combiner, a beat-frequency detection optical path, an optoelectronic receiver, and a frequency counter atomic furnace.