Actual performance vs modeled performance of diffractive beam splitters

Todd Lizotte; Richard Rosenberg; Orest Ohar

doi:10.1117/12.618549

30 August 2005 Actual performance vs. modeled performance of diffractive beam splitters

Todd Lizotte, Richard Rosenberg, Orest Ohar

Proceedings Volume 5876, Laser Beam Shaping VI; 58760I (2005) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.618549
Event: Optics and Photonics 2005, 2005, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

Performance of diffractive optics is influenced partly by fabrication; however the design and modeling of the diffractive optics prior to fabrication play a significant role in the ultimate performance results. When designing completely new diffractive optics, the tendency is to design, model, fabricate and then hope for the best. Many companies who look to source diffractive optics come face to face with the reality of this dilemma since diffractive optic suppliers tend to provide their services on a "best effort basis". In short this means, if the vendor does not get it right the first time, the client will need to place a second order. At which point the diffractive optic vendor will try to make it better the second time around, but no guarantee. This paper will examine and compare the design methods used to generate diffractive optical structures and performance models as well as the micro machining processes used for the fabrication of a diffractive fan out or splitter element. Examples of computer software for design and modeling will be described showing how various approximation and encoding methods compare. An overview of the optical testing methods used will be discussed including the specific test equipment and metrology techniques used to verify performance and dimensional stability. The paper will demonstrate a real world application by showing the analysis of a series (same design) of a one dimensional splitters with varying etch depths and geometries. Presentation of data will include fabrication dimensional errors, splitter beam uniformity and beam efficiency as compared to the original intended design performance and models. Finally a summary of helpful guidelines will be outlined for engineers seeking to develop prototype diffractive optics.

Citation Download Citation

Todd Lizotte, Richard Rosenberg, and Orest Ohar "Actual performance vs. modeled performance of diffractive beam splitters", Proc. SPIE 5876, Laser Beam Shaping VI, 58760I (30 August 2005); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.618549

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available