Optical Element Temperature Sensing Shielded From Laser Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-power lasers cause heat buildup in optical elements due to energy absorption, leading to potential damage and unreliable device operation, with existing temperature sensing methods being hindered by interference from incident light and lack of space.
Innovation Solution
A device with a contactless temperature sensor positioned behind the optical element to measure temperature indirectly, using a pyrometer that is shielded from incident light, allowing for reliable high-temperature measurement and effective temperature management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a contactless temperature sensor is positioned to measure temperature of the optical element, then temperature monitoring capability is improved, but the sensor is interfered with by incident light beams making readings unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the positionable part as an intermediary barrier between the incident light beams and the temperature sensor. The sensor is positioned behind the positionable part, which blocks the harmful light interference while still allowing the sensor to detect thermal radiation from the optical element through thermal conduction and radiation from the positionable part's surface.
2Measurement precision
If the temperature sensor is positioned close to the optical element for accurate measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but the sensor is exposed to high heat and light interference
Solution Approach 1:
The positionable part serves as a thermal intermediary that conducts heat from the optical element to its back surface where the sensor is located. This allows the sensor to measure temperature indirectly through the positionable part, avoiding direct exposure to high heat and light while maintaining measurement capability through thermal conduction.
3Measurement precision
If direct contact temperature sensing is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but the device lacks sufficient free space and risks damage from high heat and light
Solution Approach 1:
The positionable part acts as a thermal conductor and physical barrier, enabling the sensor to be positioned on the back side of the assembly. This intermediary structure allows temperature measurement without requiring direct contact with the optical element, solving both the space constraint and the protection needs.
4Use of energy by moving object
If the optical element reflects laser beams with high efficiency, then energy utilization is improved, but heat buildup occurs in the optical element and device components
Solution Approach 1:
The temperature sensor provides continuous feedback about the thermal state of the optical element through the positionable part. This feedback enables the control system to monitor heat buildup and take corrective actions such as adjusting laser power or activating cooling systems, thereby managing the thermal consequences of high-efficiency reflection.
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 prevents damage to optical elements and fragile device components by accurately monitoring and managing temperature, extending the device's service life and ensuring reliable operation.
Implementation Method 1
a contactless temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of the optical element, said sensor being positioned behind the positionable part with respect to the optical element
Implementation Method 2
the small fraction of energy of the laser beam that is not reflected, is absorbed by the optical part (or sometimes even let through), creating a substantial heat buildup in the optical part
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention concerns a device for positioning an optical element, having improved temperature management. The device aims to address, in particular, the adverse effects of prologued exposure of an optical element to high-power illumination devices, more in particular high-power laser beam incidence.