Angular Prism Beam Splitting for Compact Laser Interference Patterning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for forming interference patterns require precise alignment of multiple optical elements and significant construction space, limiting flexibility in adjusting the structural period of laser radiation.
Innovation Solution
A compact optical system using interconnected triangular or quadrangular prisms with beam-splitting layers to split laser beams into part beams, which are then focused and interfered to form structural patterns, allowing adjustable structural periods without the need for multiple focusing optics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If beam splitters and multiple focusing optics are used to form interference patterns, then structural patterns can be formed, but the device complexity and construction space increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the beam splitting function and focusing function into a single integrated optical element (prism with beam splitter layer). This merging eliminates the need for separate beam splitters and multiple focusing optics, directly reducing device complexity while maintaining the capability to form interference patterns for structural pattern formation
Solution Approach 2:
The optical element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a beam splitter to divide the laser beam into part beams, and as a focusing element to direct these part beams at specific angles. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of optical elements required in the system
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple focusing optics with different focal lengths are used to change structural period, then adaptability improves, but device complexity and number of optical elements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic adjustment of the structural period by varying the angle of incidence of the laser beam on the prism, rather than requiring physical replacement of focusing optics. This dynamic control mechanism maintains adaptability while significantly reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The structural period is adjusted by changing the angle of incidence parameter of the laser beam on the prism, rather than changing the focal length parameter of multiple optics. This parameter change approach provides flexibility while minimizing the number of optical elements required
3Manufacturing precision
If precise alignment of reflective elements is performed, then interference pattern quality improves, but ease of operation deteriorates due to laborious adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated optical element performs beam splitting and focusing in a single component, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures between multiple reflective elements. The system essentially aligns itself through the inherent geometry of the prism, significantly improving ease of operation while maintaining interference pattern quality
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
Enables flexible and compact laser interference structuring with reduced optical elements, enabling variable structural periods and efficient beam alignment for precise pattern formation.
Implementation Method 1
The splitting of the laser beam into part beams takes place at the layer to which the two part prisms are connected, by the reflection of a part of the radiation by the layer and transmission of another part of the radiation by the layer
Implementation Method 2
The splitting of the laser beam into part beams takes place at the layer to which the two part prisms are connected, by the reflection of a part of the radiation by the layer and transmission of another part of the radiation by the layer
Implementation Method 3
The part beams thus obtained are then each incident on an outward-facing surface of one of the two part prisms. From there, the part beams reflected there are incident on at least one optical element which is formed such that the part beams are aligned, in particular focused
Implementation Method 4
the part beams are aligned, in particular focused in such a way, that they interfere with each other in a region of a component in which a structural pattern is intended to be formed
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement in which an angular prism is formed with two triangular part prisms which are connected to one another by a layer having properties splitting at least one laser beam into part beams. The two part prisms have two identical acute angles α. The laser beam is directed onto an outward-facing surface of one of the two part prisms. The at least one laser beam is split into two part beams by the reflection of a part of the radiation by the layer and transmission of a further part of the radiation through the layer. The part beams are each incident on an outward-facing surface, are reflected there and exit from the part prisms and are incident on at least one optical element and are aligned such that they interfere with one another in a region of a component in which a structural pattern is intended to be formed.