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Published on: December 11, 2014
Controlling the shape of Talbot bands' visibility
Daniel Woods1, Adrian Podoleanu
1Applied Optics Group, School of Physical Sciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT27NH, UK.
This study introduces a new theoretical model for Fourier domain spectral interferometry. The model shows how manipulating beam power distribution in Talbot bands experiments can tune sensitivity and detectable optical path difference (OPD) values.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Spectroscopy
- Interferometry
Background:
- Fourier domain spectral interferometry is a technique used for precise measurements.
- Talbot bands configurations in spectral interferometry typically assume uniform power distribution between interfering beams.
- Existing theoretical models do not fully explain sensitivity variations in these configurations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a theoretical model predicting sensitivity variation versus optical path difference (OPD) in spectral interferometry using Talbot bands.
- To investigate the impact of manipulating power distribution within interfering beams on sensitivity and OPD.
- To provide a model that explains phenomena not covered by previous theories.
Main Methods:
- Development of a novel theoretical model for spectral interferometry.
- Analysis of configurations producing Talbot bands where interfering beams utilize different parts of a diffraction grating.
- Modeling the effect of power distribution, beam gap, and beam width on sensitivity and OPD.
Main Results:
- The model demonstrates that manipulating power distribution allows tuning of the OPD for maximum sensitivity and sensitivity variation.
- Creating a gap between beams adjusts the minimum detectable OPD.
- The width of the beams determines the maximum detectable OPD value.
Conclusions:
- The presented theoretical model accurately predicts key features of Talbot bands experiments in spectral interferometry.
- Manipulating beam power distribution offers a method to control and optimize measurement sensitivity and range.
- This work advances the understanding and application of Fourier domain spectral interferometry.
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