Laser beam scanning by rotary mirrors. I. Modeling mirror-scanning devices

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Optical Engineering
• Laser Systems

Background:

• Traditional analysis of mirror-scanning devices can be complex.
• A unified approach is needed for diverse optical scanning systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a vector-based method for analyzing laser beam paths in optical systems with movable mirrors.
• To provide a unified treatment for various mirror-scanning devices.
• To investigate the geometry and characteristics of scan fields and patterns.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a vector approach to trace laser beam paths through optical systems.
• Analyzed the geometry of scan fields generated by mirror-scanning systems.
• Derived design equations and curves for common linear and circular scanning technologies.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated that scan fields are curved surfaces with a straight line as the generating element.
• Identified circular, elliptical, and egg-shaped cross-sections for scan fields.
• Addressed advanced topics including scan field-pattern relationships, distortions, and spot-size enlargement.

Conclusions:

• The vector approach offers a unified and comprehensive method for understanding mirror-scanning devices.
• The derived equations and analysis provide practical tools for designing optical scanning systems.
• Further analysis covers galvanometer scanners, polygon scanners, and X-Y scanning systems.