Optical Beam Seeding Alignment with Risley Prisms and Optical Plates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser air data sensors require manual alignment by personnel, which can be challenging, especially when new sensor systems are installed, and misalignment can occur during shipment.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for seeding an optical beam using a Risley prism pair and optical plates to align the beam with a reference beam, allowing for automatic alignment by rotating optical elements about the optical axis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual alignment by personnel is used, then alignment can be achieved, but the process is complex and requires technical expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic alignment without requiring manual intervention by personnel. The optical elements self-adjust through motorized rotation mechanisms that automatically align the master laser with the optical amplifier, eliminating the need for technical expertise in alignment operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment operations with an automated system using motorized rotation of optical elements. The mechanical system includes motors and control mechanisms that substitute for human hands and expertise, enabling automated beam alignment.
2Reliability
If manual alignment is performed, then initial alignment can be achieved, but misalignment occurs during shipment
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static manual alignment to dynamic automatic alignment. The optical elements can rotate and adjust their positions automatically in response to misalignment conditions, allowing the system to adapt to changes during shipment and maintain proper alignment without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms to detect misalignment between the master laser and optical amplifier, then automatically adjusts the optical elements to correct the alignment. This closed-loop control ensures reliable alignment maintenance throughout shipment and operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If new sensor systems are installed, then system capability is improved, but alignment becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The automatic alignment system performs alignment operations autonomously without requiring personnel to have specialized technical abilities. When new sensor systems are installed, the system automatically aligns the optical components, eliminating the need for expert intervention regardless of how many times the system is reinstalled or upgraded.
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 robust and simplified beam alignment, maintaining alignment under vibratory loads, temperature changes, and pressure changes, reducing the need for manual intervention and minimizing misalignment issues.
Implementation Method 1
rotating one or more optical elements disposed with in the beam path of the optical beam between the energy source and the optical amplifier about the optical axis to a align the optical beam with a reference beam
Implementation Method 2
a first optical plate and a second optical plate aligned with one another along the optical axis and disposed in the beam path of the optical beam between the Risley prism and the optical amplifier configured to adjust a lateral position of the optical beam
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with at least one aspect of this disclosure, a method for seeding an optical beam includes, emitting an optical beam from an energy source towards an optical amplifier along an optical axis, and rotating one or more optical elements disposed with in the beam path of the optical beam between the energy source and the optical amplifier about the optical axis to a align the optical beam with a reference beam.