Segmented Window for Broadband Optical Systems
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Optical systems exposed to harsh environments face misalignments and performance degradation due to limited materials for broadband spectral coverage, requiring a compromise between spectral range and system protection.
Innovation Solution
A segmented window with multiple materials optimized for different spectral bands, combined with an optical de-multiplexer to spatially separate and transmit electromagnetic radiation along a common optical path, avoiding insertion losses and thermal background flux.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single material window is used for broadband spectral coverage, then spectral range is improved, but system performance deteriorates due to material limitations and environmental exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The optical window is divided into multiple segments, each made from a different material optimized for specific spectral bands. This segmentation allows each material to be selected for its optimal transmission properties in particular wavelength ranges, achieving broad spectral coverage while maintaining high performance in each band without compromise.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the window assembly use different materials with specific properties tailored to their spectral transmission requirements. Each local segment is optimized for its specific function (e.g., UV transmission, visible light, infrared), allowing the overall system to achieve broadband performance while each local area maintains optimal reliability for its designated spectral range.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple windows are used to cover different spectral bands, then spectral coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple spectral band capabilities are merged into a single integrated window assembly through segmentation. Instead of requiring separate windows for different spectral bands, the segmented design combines multiple materials in one unified structure, achieving the functionality of multiple windows while reducing overall system complexity and improving ease of integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented window assembly serves multiple spectral functions simultaneously within a single device component. Each segment handles a specific spectral band, but collectively they provide universal broadband coverage, eliminating the need for multiple separate window components and reducing system complexity.
3Reliability
If a protective window is added to protect optical elements from environmental conditions, then system protection is improved, but spectral coverage deteriorates due to material limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The protective window is segmented into multiple material sections, each optimized for both protection and spectral transmission in specific bands. This allows the protective function to be maintained while simultaneously achieving broad spectral coverage, as each segment transmits its designated spectral range while protecting the underlying optical elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The window assembly uses composite construction with different materials bonded or arranged in segments. This composite structure provides both environmental protection and broadband spectral transmission, combining the protective properties of durable materials with the optical transmission properties of spectrally optimized materials in a unified protective window system.
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 wide spectral coverage without compromising spatial performance or system protection, maintaining system integrity and efficiency in harsh conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the first segment being configured to transmit a first spectral band of the electromagnetic radiation along an optical path and the second segment being configured to transmit a second spectral band of the electromagnetic radiation along the optical path
Implementation Method 2
an optical de-multiplexer positioned along the optical path and configured to spatially separate the first spectral band and the second spectral band
Implementation Method 3
the de-multiplex mirror is an annular mirror having a central aperture, and the annular mirror is positioned to transmit the second spectral band through the central aperture and reflect the first spectral band
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects and examples are generally directed to broadband optical systems and methods for collecting a wide spectral range of electromagnetic radiation with a single window optical assembly. In one example, a broadband optical system includes a segmented window positioned to receive electromagnetic radiation, the segmented window including at least a first segment formed from a first material and a second segment formed from a second material, the first segment being configured to transmit a first spectral band of the electromagnetic radiation along an optical path and the second segment being configured to transmit a second spectral band of the electromagnetic radiation along the optical path. The broadband optical system may include an optical de-multiplexer configured to spatially separate the first and second spectral bands, and foreoptics interposed between the segmented window and the optical de-multiplexer to direct the electromagnetic radiation from the segmented window to the optical de-multiplexer.