Fast optical shutters

A fast optical shutter (variable filter) is controlled by an externally applied voltage, like the FOS series (Fast Optical Shutter). Electro-optical shutters have no moving parts, are vibration-free, and have a smaller footprint than conventional mechanical shutters.

Most optical shutter models' polarisation modulators are LC cells positioned between polarizers. A change in transmittance occurs as a result. In addition, the shutter can use voltage amplitude modulation to operate in a grey-scale analogue between fully open and closed states.

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Standard models and sizes

We offer a variety of optical shutter models with different electro-optical properties and a wide range of standard sizes to meet various requirements. In addition, further optimization and custom design are available for customers who are not finding the required optical shutter properties in terms of electro-optical properties and mechanical dimensions (up to 14"x16"). As a result, it is possible to ship anywhere from a single prototype to several million units per month in terms of volume supply.

Top coating and anti-reflective (AR) cover glass

Most models feature an anti-reflective, scratch-resistant, hard coating on their outer surfaces. In addition, AR covers glass laminated to both sides of optical shutters for demanding optical applications. This configuration minimizes surface reflection, beam deviation, and wavefront aberration for imaging applications.

Electrical connection

Contact pins are usually attached to optical shutters. There are also flexible flat cables (FFC) and soldered wires available.

Drive waveform

Typically, the optical shutters operate in a mono-stable white mode, which is entirely open and transmits light. By applying the drive voltage, VD, it is switched into a closed, light-absorbing state. It is essential to maintain this voltage throughout the closure of the optical shutter. As the drive voltage amplitude increases, the contrast increases, and the closing time decreases. Therefore, optical Shutter transmittance is dependent on RMS voltage. Below are two AC square waveforms that can use to accomplish this. The . left alternative used a minimum frequency of 60Hz to prevent visual flicker. The correct option is appropriate if you wish to cycle between open and closed states.

FOS (Fast Optical Shutter)

In addition to the high contrast between open and closed states, the basic FOS model offers fast switching from open to closed states. This optical shutter is suitable for customers who do not have extreme requirements for fast switching. A wide-view version of the FOS is available, the FOS-WV, which offers more uniform light extinction over the viewing angles when closed. There is also a colour-neutral, faster-switching version, the FOS(G2)-CN.

Conclusion


 

Optical shutter technology is vital in various applications, including scientific research, manufacturing, and healthcare. However, these devices pose several challenges that must be addressed to ensure reliable and efficient operation. Design and manufacturing challenges, optical performance, stability and reliability, speed and response time, and environmental challenges all contribute to the overall performance of an optical shutter controller. Recent advancements in materials science and electronic components have led to the development of more reliable and efficient optical shutters. Still, continued innovation and development will be necessary to overcome the remaining challenges in optical shutter technology.

 

Since 1987, NM Laser Products, Inc. has been innovating laser shutter technology. They engineer and manufacture electromechanical laser shutters and controllers that meet OEMs' and researchers' production and integration challenges worldwide. In the 1980s, when reliable commercial shutter products for high-irradiance lasers were unavailable, NM Laser Products began developing new laser shutter technologies. Their first products were introduced in 1988.

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