Modal Corrector Mirror with Compliant Actuation for Laser Aberrations

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Current adaptive optics systems for laser resonators have limited ability to correct higher spatial-frequency aberrations, leading to increased scatter and expense, making them unsuitable for small-bore resonator applications due to the need for larger apertures and costly wavefront correctors with limited power handling.

Innovation Solution

A laser resonator design incorporating statically-actuated and modal corrector mirrors with controllable-profile faceplates and adjustable actuators, allowing for selective correction of lower and higher spatial frequency errors through localized push-pull forces, enabling precise aberration correction within the resonator cavity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If current adaptive optics systems are used to correct higher spatial-frequency aberrations, then correction capability is improved, but aperture size and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaberration correction capabilityVSAvoidaperture size

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The correction system is divided into two independent mirror assemblies: a statically-actuated mirror for lower spatial-frequency aberrations and a modal corrector mirror for higher spatial-frequency aberrations. This segmentation allows each mirror to be optimized for its specific function with smaller individual apertures, avoiding the need for a single large-aperture system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modal corrector mirror employs an array of localized actuators that apply discrete forces to specific regions of the mirror surface. This local actuation approach enables precise correction of high-spatial-frequency aberrations without requiring a uniformly large aperture across the entire mirror.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Measurement precision

If current adaptive optics systems are used for small-bore resonator applications, then aberration correction is improved, but power handling capability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaberration correction capabilityVSAvoidpower handling capability

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

By separating the correction functions into two dedicated mirror assemblies, each optimized for specific spatial-frequency ranges, the system achieves effective aberration correction in small-bore resonators without requiring the large apertures and complex optics that would compromise power handling capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces traditional refractive modulators and MEMS devices with mirror-based reflective modulation. This mechanical substitution using rigid mirrors instead of soft optical elements or micro-electromechanical systems enables superior power handling while maintaining aberration correction functionality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Measurement precision

If discrete actuators with hard boundaries are used for wavefront correction, then localization precision is improved, but scatter increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveactuator localization precisionVSAvoidscatter

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The modal corrector mirror uses a thin, flexible faceplate that can be deformed by localized actuators. This flexible membrane approach eliminates the hard boundaries and discrete steps associated with traditional segmented mirrors, providing continuous surface modulation that reduces scatter while maintaining precise actuator localization.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

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

This design effectively corrects both lower and higher spatial frequency aberrations, reducing scatter and costs by allowing for smaller resonator apertures and more efficient energy extraction, while maintaining stability and accuracy in high-power systems.

Implementation Method 1

a compliant mechanism located between the adjustable element and faceplate, the adjustable element is configured to exert a selectable, localized push-pull force on the faceplate via the compliant mechanism

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP2856241B1Modal corrector mirror with compliant actuation for optical aberrations

Publication Date: 2021.03.31 THE BOEING CO

Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 2c

AI summary

A laser resonator is provided that includes a cavity bounded by an end mirror and output coupler, and one or more gain media between the end mirror and output coupler. The laser resonator also includes a modal corrector mirror between the end mirror and output coupler. The modal corrector mirror includes a controllable-profile faceplate including an optically-treated front surface, and an array of static actuators. Each static actuator includes an adjustable element, and a compliant mechanism located between the adjustable element and faceplate. The adjustable element is configured to exert a selectable, localized push-pull force on the faceplate via the compliant mechanism, and the compliant mechanism is configured to scale the respective force.