Acousto-optic deflector and methods of fabrication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing acousto-optic deflectors require separate devices for different frequencies, leading to increased size, power consumption, and reduced matching behavior, limiting their versatility and efficiency in applications like microscopy, laser printing, and laser communication.
Innovation Solution
An acousto-optic deflector with a surface featuring stepped heights and a slanted end, combined with a conductive layer and crystals, allows for impedance matching and operation at multiple frequencies, enabling a single device to function effectively at 40 MHz and 60 MHz, thus reducing size and power consumption while enhancing matching behavior.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate devices are used for different frequencies, then frequency-specific performance is optimized, but device size and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple frequency-specific deflectors into a single integrated device. The optical element integrates multiple crystals (e.g., first crystal for 40 MHz, second crystal for 60 MHz) on a single substrate with shared structural components, allowing multiple frequency operations in one device rather than requiring separate devices for each frequency.
Solution Approach 2:
The single optical element is designed to perform multiple functions by supporting different crystals for different frequencies. The device can operate at multiple frequencies (e.g., 40 MHz and 60 MHz) using the same fundamental structure, making it a universal deflector that replaces multiple specialized devices.
2Reliability
If separate devices are used for different frequencies, then frequency-specific performance is optimized, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple frequency-specific deflectors into a single integrated device. The optical element integrates multiple crystals (e.g., first crystal for 40 MHz, second crystal for 60 MHz) on a single substrate with shared structural components, allowing multiple frequency operations in one device rather than requiring separate devices for each frequency.
Solution Approach 2:
The single optical element is designed to perform multiple functions by supporting different crystals for different frequencies. The device can operate at multiple frequencies (e.g., 40 MHz and 60 MHz) using the same fundamental structure, making it a universal deflector that replaces multiple specialized devices.
3Reliability
If separate devices are used for different frequencies, then frequency-specific performance is optimized, but matching behavior deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by giving different regions of the optical element different properties. Each crystal is positioned on a specific step of the optical element, and each crystal-cavity combination is optimized for its specific frequency. The first crystal with its associated cavity is optimized for 40 MHz, while the second crystal with its cavity is optimized for 60 MHz, allowing each local region to have tailored characteristics for its designated frequency while being part of a unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical element is segmented into multiple levels or steps, with each step supporting a specific crystal. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each frequency channel while maintaining a unified overall structure. The first crystal is positioned on a first level and the second crystal on a second level, enabling frequency-specific performance through spatial segmentation.
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 solution enables a single acousto-optic deflector to operate efficiently at two distinct frequencies, providing precise control over laser beam direction and reducing the need for multiple devices, thereby improving performance and versatility in various applications.
Implementation Method 1
When a laser beam is directed through the crystal, the acoustic wave creates a spatially varying refractive index in the crystal, which diffracts the laser beam in a specific direction
Implementation Method 2
The AOD consists of an acousto-optic crystal, usually made of an optical material like germanium, tellurite, or silica, that is designed to propagate an acoustic wave through the crystal generated by an RF signal
Data Source
AI summary
An acousto-optic deflector includes an optical element having a surface with one or more steps formed thereon; a conductive layer formed on the surface with the steps; one or more crystals secured to each step; and electrodes positioned on each surface of each crystal.