Adjustable Mirror Mount for Low Cross-Coupling Laser Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing beam steering systems in flow cytometry are large, result in long beam paths, and introduce axis cross-coupling, making it difficult to configure lasers accurately and leading to sensitivity degradation due to optical losses.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable mirror mount with a T- or L-shaped design that allows for precise rotational adjustments of mirrors in two axes, reducing cross-coupling and enabling compact beam steering with fine pitch screws and strategically placed pivots, allowing for precise alignment of multiple laser beams.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional beam steering systems are used, then laser beam alignment can be achieved, but the system size becomes large and beam paths become long causing optical losses
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror mount is divided into separate functional components: a base plate with first pivot for azimuth adjustment, a mirror holder with second pivot for elevation adjustment, and independent adjustment screws. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while reducing overall system footprint and enabling compact integration in flow cytometry devices.
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional adjustment mechanisms are used, then mirror positioning can be achieved, but axis cross-coupling occurs making precise configuration difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The design extracts and eliminates the cross-coupling effect by positioning the first pivot's rotation axis perpendicular to and offset from the mirror surface, and the second pivot's rotation axis perpendicular to the first pivot's axis and passing through the mirror surface. This geometric arrangement decouples the azimuth and elevation adjustments, allowing independent precise positioning without interference between axes.
Solution Approach 2:
The mirror holder is pre-configured with the second pivot axis passing through the mirror surface and the first pivot axis offset from the mirror surface. This preliminary geometric arrangement ensures that adjustments are made in the correct sequence and orientation, preventing cross-coupling before it occurs and simplifying the adjustment process.
3Length of stationary object
If compact mirror mount design is implemented, then beam path length is reduced, but adjustment precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The design utilizes three-dimensional spatial arrangement by offsetting the first pivot axis from the mirror surface along a direction perpendicular to both the mirror surface and the second pivot axis. This dimensional arrangement allows compact beam paths while maintaining long adjustment lever arms for high precision, effectively decoupling path length from adjustment precision.
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 adjustable mirror mount provides precise and compact beam steering, minimizing beam dispersion and axis cross-coupling, enabling accurate alignment of laser beams in tight spaces, thus enhancing the sensitivity and operational efficiency of flow cytometry systems.
Implementation Method 1
a spring may connect the cleat with the horizontal adjustment arm and apply a biasing force to the horizontal adjustment arm
Implementation Method 2
at least one of the one or more vertical pivots may include a pivot ball or a pivot rod
Implementation Method 3
a horizontal adjustment screw that changes the separation distance between the horizontal adjustment arm and the cleat causing the horizontal adjustment arm and the mirror holder to rotate about the vertical axis
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an adjustable mirror mount that is capable of adjusting a mirror in two axes with a high degree of precision and low cross-coupling. Long horizontal and vertical adjustment arms are used to allow the precision adjustment about both a horizontal axis and a vertical axis.