The Ultraviolet Imager (UVI) is a challenging instrument developed in the frame of the SMILE mission, a collaboration between ESA and CAS. The UVI instrument is a CMOS-based ultraviolet camera developed to image Earth's northern auroral regions. It is centered on the 160-180 nm UV waveband, with a 10° × 10° field of view. At the core of the instrument, four thin film-coated mirrors guide light into its detector and ensure most of the signal filtering, crucial to achieve an out-of-band rejection ratio as low as possible to reject light from solar diffusion, dayglow and unwanted atomic lines.
We developed an interferometric coating based on an MgF2/LaF3 multilayer stack deposited by ion-assisted electron-beam deposition. We gradually improved our evaporation setup to reach a high degree of homogeneity, precision and repeatability on the material thicknesses, over the entire mirrors surface. The reflectivity maximum is above 85% and the wavelength at which it occurs is adjustable within 1 nm, while the out-of-band reflectivity between 120 and 155 nm and between 200 nm and 1100 nm is kept below 6% on average never exceeding 8 %.
The coating has been space qualified and shows stable performances in conditions representative of the instrument operation environment (thermal cycling under vacuum, radiations, UV exposure…).
LiteBIRD is a future satellite mission designed to polarization-sensitive mapping of the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) anisotropies required to test the theory of cosmological inflation. The standard procedure of the on-ground characterization and calibration of the LiteBIRD Med- and High Frequency Telescopes (MHFT) requires the use a cryogenic reference unit, called also ‘SKYLOAD’, compatible with the vacuum environment.
In this paper, we present one possible baseline design of such SKYLOAD, proposed and currently under development by our research group. The SKYLOAD is composed from anechoic panels, which consist of a planar impedance substrate and a structured layer involving an anechoic cone array with a honeycomb arrangement. Both structured layer and planar impedance substrates should be made of a microwave absorbing polymer, compatible with vacuum cryogenic environment. The SKYLOAD is cooled down by liquid helium to 2 K. Accordingly, in our work, we address also key issues related to no-thermal cracking conditions, as well as the deterioration of the performance of the SKYLOAD assembled from anechoic panels due to their thermal shrinkage when cooling to cryogenic temperatures. Finally, an original manufacturing method of the proposed anechoic panels, involving polymer casting, is currently under consideration.
We describe the state of development of a white light interferometer to characterize the cryogenic mirrors for GW detector on operation. We include the first experimental results from the proof of concept of the metrology instrument. The instrument will characterize the topology as well as the vibration of the mirrors. This development takes place in the frame of the E-TEST project. E-TEST is one of the technology demonstrators for the future Einstein Telescope (ET). ET is dedicated to the measure and characterization of gravitational waves. The prototype built by E-TEST includes a large silicon mirror of 40 cm diameter suspended by innovative vibration isolation hanging modules. To reach the detection specification, the mirror is cooled down at cryogenic temperatures around 20 K. Nevertheless, even after the isolation, the mirror may not reach perfect stability once at cryogenic temperatures. Furthermore, the mirror may experience surface topology changes and wavefront deformation due to the extreme variations in temperature and gradient. With our metrology instrument, we can obtain on a single camera frame a set of interferogram maps of the area observed on the mirror at different optical path differences. To do this, we design an innovative phase mask for a white light low-coherence interferometer. In addition, we implement new algorithms for the white light interferogram analysis, avoiding the limitations of the conventional Phase Shifting Interferometry algorithms.
We report on the numerical and experimental study of the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) spectroscopy of gold nanoparticles (NPs) structures at the frustrated total internal reflection (LSPR_TIR). The investigated NPs structures were manufactured using two different microfabrication methods: the nano-sphere lithography, and the original one, involving the direct pulse laser writing. The last technology, developed by our research team, provides powerful tools for flexible patterning of the multichannel biochip with array of LSPR probes. The obtained results demonstrate a significant improvement in the LSPR wavelength sensitivity to sample refractive index and, in addition, a relatively efficient conversion of the incident light wave polarization.
The POCT technology involving low cost Lab-On-Chip label-free biosensing opens up an opportunity to drastically reduce the total cost of plant health and disease monitoring tools. The main requirement for a POCT tool is that it should involve relatively inexpensive equipment ensuring a sufficiently high accuracy of the plant disease early diagnostic. The principal objective of the presented work was to develop of a cost effective tool for biosensing assay, easy to use even for unskilled user. The label-free biosensing involving an optical near-field resonance phenomenon, such as Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) or localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), appears to be an appropriate approach for the above requirements. In this paper, we present a concept of multichannel biosensing platform dedicated to POCT, as well as the first proof-of-concept experimental investigations, demonstrating its practical feasibility. The instrumental platform investigated by our research group includes both disposable multichannel biochip and spectroscopic optical readout device. The proposed approach gives access to two plasmonic detection formats on the same lab-on-chip device: SPR and LSPR biosensing. In order to implement the LSPR sensing approach, our team has developed an original microfabrication method involving gold nanoparticles (Au_NPs) synthesis by pulsed laser writing. The biochip includes both microfluidic and biosensor structures formed into a single plastic slab.
We present three optical multi-channels spectrometers for the interrogation of label-free biosensors based on different kinds of transducers : resonant nanopillars (RNP), microring resonators (MRR), localized and propagative surface plasmon resonance (LSPR and SPR). Light is collected from the multi-channel biosensors (up to 12-channels) with optical fibers and is remapped to a packed straight line forming the input slit of the spectrometers. The combination of high resolution CMOS sensors and embedded signal processing makes it possible to extract the resonant wavelengths of the transducers with a precision in the range of 1-20 pm depending on the type of transducer. The performance of the three transducer / spectrometer systems has been evaluated in the framework of EU and regional projects for the monitoring of chemical pollutants found in oceanic waters (FP7 - EnviGuard), crop health monitoring (Interreg France-Wallonie-Vlaanderen - SmartBioControl/BioSens) and bioreactor monitoring (EutoTransBio - APTACHIP).
In this paper, we present an original concept of plasmonic-related instrumentation platform dedicated to diagnostic biosensing tests out of the laboratory. The developed instrumental platform includes both disposable one-use microfluidic affinity biochip and compact optical readout device for biochip monitoring involving mobile Internet devices for data processing and communication. The biochip includes both microfluidic and optical coupling structures formed into a single plastic slab. The microfluidic path of the biochip operates in passive capillary pumping mode. In the proof-of-concept prototype, we address specifically the sensing format involving Surface Plasmon Resonance phenomenon. The biochip is plugged in the readout device without the use of an index matching fluid. An essential advantage of the developed biochip is that its implementation involves conventional hot embossing and thin film deposition process, perfectly suited for mass production of low-cost microfluidic biochip for biochemical applications.
KEYWORDS: Light sources and illumination, LED lighting, Monte Carlo methods, Light emitting diodes, Scattering, Energy conversion efficiency, Light scattering, Geometrical optics, Printing, Optimization (mathematics)
In this paper, we present an original method of dot pattern generation dedicated to large-size format light guide plate (LGP) design optimization, such as photo-bioreactors, the number of dots greatly exceeds the maximum allowable number of optical objects supported by most common ray-tracing software. In the proposed method, in order to simplify the computational problem, the original optical system is replaced by an equivalent one. Accordingly, an original dot pattern is splitted into multiple small sections, inside which the dot size variation is less than the ink dots printing typical resolution. Then, these sections are replaced by equivalent cells with continuous diffusing film. After that, we adjust the TIS (Total Integrated Scatter) two-dimensional distribution over the grid of equivalent cells, using an iterative optimization procedure. Finally, the obtained optimal TIS distribution is converted into the dot size distribution by applying an appropriate conversion rule. An original semi-empirical equation dedicated to rectangular large-size LGPs is proposed for the initial guess of TIS distribution. It allows significantly reduce the total time needed to dot pattern optimization.
We present a new solar concentrator concept. This concept is based on spectral splitting. It implies reflective, refractive and diffractive elements that allow two spectrally differentiated beams to reach different and/or unmatched lattice solar cells. The aimed geometrical concentration factor is 5× and the theoretical optical efficiency of that concentrator concept reaches theoretically 82%. The following study will discuss the concept of such a solar concentrator. A practical application to dye sensitized solar cells is given. The manufacturing and design of the element is then exposed. Those elements have been tested in the laboratory. Good agreements with theoretical simulations are demonstrated.
We present the design, implementation and characterization of an integrated surface plasmon resonance
biosensor chip involving diffractive optical coupling elements avoiding the need of prism coupling. The
integrated sensor chip uses the angular interrogation principle and includes two diffraction gratings and the SPR
sensing zone. The theoretical design is presented as well as the fabrication procedure. Experimental results,
using reference index fluids, are compared to theoretical predictions and prism coupling experimental results.
We believe that this architecture is perfectly suitable for low cost and reproducible SPR biochemical sensor
chips since the sensing zone can be functionalized as any other one.
Surface Plasmons Resonance (SPR) architectures involving multi-wavelength interrogation is an attractive alternative
for droplet biosensing. In this work, we address two detection formats experimentally investigated by our research
group. The first one involves an angular scanning combining one near-IR and one visible light probes. It enables to
increase the number of parameters for numerical fitting, which improves the precision of measurement. The second
concept involves the SPR Coupler and Disperser sensor principle, where the spectrum analysis is performed on each
detector pixel using the same diffraction grating that is employed for the optical coupling of the incident light with the
surface plasmons.
Surface Plasmons Resonance (SPR) architectures based on grating coupler/disperser combination is an attractive
alternative for spectral-based sensing. We present a new concept where the plasmon coupling occurs through thin film
grating and sensing occurs via the first diffraction order in reflective or transmitive mode. The developed geometry is
dedicated to droplet sensing. The extension of the architecture to bi-dimensional array of sensors is also facilitated. This
paper describes several designs of sensors. The analysis of their theoretical performances is demonstrated and compared,
including a sensitivity evaluation.
Phase-mask coronagraphs are known to provide high contrast imaging capabilities while preserving a small inner
working angle, which allows searching for exoplanets or circumstellar disks with smaller telescopes or at longer
wavelengths. The AGPM (Annular Groove Phase Mask, Mawet et al. 20051) is an optical vectorial vortex coronagraph
(or vector vortex) induced by a rotationally symmetric subwavelength grating (i.e. with a period smaller than λ/n, λ being
the observed wavelength and n the refractive index of the grating substrate). In this paper, we present our first midinfrared
AGPM prototypes imprinted on a diamond substrate. We firstly give an extrapolation of the expected
coronagraph performances in the N-band (~10 μm), and prospects for down-scaling the technology to the most wanted L-band
(~3.5 μm). We then present the manufacturing and measurement results, using diamond-optimized microfabrication
techniques such as nano-imprint lithography (NIL) and reactive ion etching (RIE). Finally, the subwavelength grating
profile metrology combines surface metrology (scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, white light
interferometry) with diffractometry on an optical polarimetric bench and cross correlation with theoretical simulations
using rigorous coupled wave analysis (RCWA).
Thermal infrared (IR) lenses require efficient anti-reflection coating. Moth-eye (or egg-box) 2D subwavelength gratings
have demonstrated their ability to reach a very high transmission for a wide wavelength and angular range. The use in
thermal IR is simplified by the lower resolution for lithographic technology, compared to visible waveband. However,
deeper structures must be engraved and lithography must be adapted to IR materials. In order to be cost-effective, the
patterning must be produced by replication techniques, such as embossing. Our laboratory is now experimenting hot
embossing of moth-eye patterns in chalcogenide substrates.
In this paper, theoretical analysis, micro-lithographic technology and manufacturing processes are detailed.
We propose a new family of achromatic phase shifters that uses the modulated total internal reflection (TIR) phenomenon. These components can be seen as enhanced Fresnel rhombs for infrared applications like nulling interferometry and polarimetry. The TIR phenomenon comes with a differential phase shift between the polarization components of the incident light. Modulating the index transition at the TIR interface allows compensating for the intrinsic material dispersion in order to make the subsequent phase shift achromatic over broad bands. The modulation can be induced by a thin film of a well-chosen medium or a subwavelength grating whose parameters are specially optimized. We present results from theoretical simulations together with preliminary fabrication outcomes.
Simple resonant structures that permit holographic reflection filtering are studied. The filters under study work under a 45-deg incidence for a wavelength of =632.8 nm, a condition useful for future inclusion in substrate mode systems. First, the influence of the structural parameters of the grating and the waveguide on the position and the shape of the resonance peaks are studied by numerical computation. The numerical results, obtained within the rigorous coupled wave theory, are compared with the measured response of some filters. These filters contain a grating recorded by holography deposited on the substrate. In the case of the bilayer filter, a waveguide is introduced between the grating and the substrate. Second, the numerical results are used for the conception of an active substrate mode spectral filter built from electro-optic zinc oxide.
We study the realization of simple resonant structures allowing to obtain holographic reflection filters under a 45° incidence for a wavelength of λ = 632.8 nm. In particular, we will be interested in the influence of the parameters of the structures on the position and the shape of the resonance peaks. The 45° incidence takes its origin in the will to include resonant components in substrate mode systems. In the second part of this paper, we use the obtained results to study the realization of an active substrate mode spectral filter by the use of an eletro-optic material: zinc oxide (ZnO). The presented results which obtained by an algorithm based on the Rigorous Coupled Wave Theory.
Access to the requested content is limited to institutions that have purchased or subscribe to SPIE eBooks.
You are receiving this notice because your organization may not have SPIE eBooks access.*
*Shibboleth/Open Athens users─please
sign in
to access your institution's subscriptions.
To obtain this item, you may purchase the complete book in print or electronic format on
SPIE.org.
INSTITUTIONAL Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.
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.