Angle measurement based on the internal-reflection effect and the use of right-angle prisms

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Metrology and Measurement Science

Background:

• Traditional angle measurement methods often rely on critical-angle prisms, which can be bulky and expensive.
• Developing compact and cost-effective angle measurement solutions is crucial for various industrial and scientific applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a new development in angle measurement based on the internal-reflection effect (AMIRE).
• To demonstrate the feasibility of using right-angle prisms for improved sensor design.
• To present analytical and experimental validation of the proposed AMIRE system.

Main Methods:

• The study employs a pair of right-angle prisms to replace elongated critical-angle prisms.
• Careful alignment of the prisms ensures excellent linearity in measurements.
• Measurement sensitivity and range are controlled by selecting different polarization states of light sources.

Main Results:

• A prototype sensor achieved a measurement range of 1.6 degrees.
• The system demonstrated a high resolution of 0.04 arcseconds.
• A low nonlinearity error of ±0.1% was recorded, indicating excellent accuracy.

Conclusions:

• The new AMIRE development offers a more compact and cost-effective alternative for angle measurement.
• The use of right-angle prisms and controlled polarization states enables precise and adaptable angle sensing.
• Both theoretical analysis and experimental results confirm the system's performance and potential for practical applications.