Small-scale light homogenization of fiber-output using different optical configurations

Indy Magnus; Rafael Souza Lima; Hugo Thienpont; Wendy Meulebroeck

doi:10.1117/12.3017249

17 June 2024 Small-scale light homogenization of fiber-output using different optical configurations

Indy Magnus, Rafael Souza Lima, Hugo Thienpont, Wendy Meulebroeck

Proceedings Volume 13022, Illumination Optics VII; 1302203 (2024) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.3017249
Event: SPIE Optical Systems Design, 2024, Strasbourg, France

Abstract

Using an optical fiber to guide light towards a sample plane is a highly efficient and compact solution. However, because of the angular intensity distribution of the light exiting the fiber, directly aiming the fiber at a surface would create a very non-uniform irradiance profile, which is undesired in many applications. Several optical techniques exist to homogenize the light beam, but most of them require a significant amount of space. Here, we investigate different methods to transform a Gaussian intensity profile into a round flat-top irradiance profile, while limiting the total system size to dimensions similar to the required output beam (24 mm). The intensity profile used is based on goniometric measurement, while Ansys Zemax OpticStudio is employed as raytracing software to optimize the various optical configurations. Firstly, ray-mapping techniques are used to map the input intensity to the desired output irradiance, in combination with the optimization of refractive and reflective optical elements. Secondly, solid light pipes are investigated to mix the input rays and project them onto the sample plane. Lastly, small and inexpensive hollow volume scatterers are studied to diffuse the light effectively and homogenize it. In this way, the root-mean-square irradiance (uniformity) could be reduced from 0.90 to 0.08 W/cm², with losses less than 20%.

Conference Presentation

Citation Download Citation

Indy Magnus, Rafael Souza Lima, Hugo Thienpont, and Wendy Meulebroeck "Small-scale light homogenization of fiber-output using different optical configurations", Proc. SPIE 13022, Illumination Optics VII, 1302203 (17 June 2024); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.3017249

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