Adjustable Spectrograph Optics With Independent Pivot Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spectrographs face challenges in efficiently aligning optics to optimize grating efficiency and align dispersed wavelengths with detectors, requiring precise angular control and small angular ranges, often necessitating expensive high-precision machining and limiting versatility across applications.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable optical system for spectrographs, featuring a base with pivotably mounted optics (collimating, dispersive, and focusing) and actuators for fine angular adjustments, allowing independent alignment of optic positions and wavelengths, enabling manual, automatic, or semi-automatic calibration without high-precision machining.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If high-precision machining is used to align optics, then alignment precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing static, precision-machined optical mounts with dynamic, adjustable mounts that allow post-assembly alignment. The optics can be moved and repositioned after the instrument is assembled, eliminating the need for expensive high-precision machining during manufacturing. This dynamic adjustment capability maintains alignment precision while significantly reducing manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing pre-configured adjustment mechanisms and alignment features that are built into the optical mounts before assembly. These pre-prepared adjustment capabilities enable precise alignment to be achieved through simple mechanical adjustments rather than requiring precision machining during the final assembly process.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed optical mounts are used, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability across applications decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamic, adjustable optical mounts that can be reconfigured for different applications. The mounts allow independent adjustment of optical element positions and angles, enabling the same instrument to be adapted for various spectroscopic applications by simply changing the optical configuration rather than requiring multiple specialized instruments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing optical mounts that can accommodate different optical elements and configurations for multiple applications. The adjustable mounts serve multiple functions: aligning individual optics, adjusting angular positions, and adapting to different grating types and detector configurations, making a single instrument versatile across various spectroscopic needs.
3Measurement precision
If precise angular control mechanisms are added, then alignment accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical precision control systems with simpler mechanical adjustment mechanisms combined with optical feedback. Instead of using sophisticated actuators and control systems, the invention uses straightforward mechanical mounts with adjustment capabilities that can be aligned using optical methods, thereby achieving precise angular control without adding complex control mechanisms.
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
Facilitates efficient alignment and versatility, reducing costs by allowing a single instrument to be used for multiple applications, and enabling quick recalibration with interchangeable optics, thus enhancing usability and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Implementation Method 1
A relative position between the first optic and the second optic is adjustable about a first pivot axis. A second relative position between the second optic and the third optic is adjustable about a second pivot axis
Data Source
AI summary
A spectrograph includes a base, a first optic mounted with respect to the base, a second optic mounted with respect to the base, and a third optic mounted with respect to the base. A first relative position between the first optic and the second optic is adjustable about a first pivot axis. A second relative position between the second optic and the third optic is adjustable about a second pivot axis independently from the adjustability of the relative position between the first optic and the second optic. The second pivot axis is substantially coincident with the first pivot axis, and a distance between the third optic and the second optic is fixed during adjustment of the second relative position.