Efficient multibeam large-angle nonmechanical laser beam steering from computer-generated holograms rendered on a...

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Holography
• Laser Technology

Background:

• Traditional beam steering methods face limitations in speed, precision, and angular range.
• Liquid crystal spatial light modulators (SLMs) offer dynamic control over light wavefronts.
• Computer-generated holography provides a flexible platform for creating complex optical elements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate multibeam large-angle beam steering in the visible spectral region.
• To investigate the use of computer-generated holographic Fresnel zone plates on an SLM for beam control.
• To analyze the performance characteristics of the steered beams, including power, profile, and divergence.

Main Methods:

• Imprinting computer-generated holographic Fresnel zone plates onto a liquid crystal spatial light modulator (SLM).
• Configuring the SLM as the first element of a telescope system.
• Independently controlling the position and intensity of multiple laser beams.
• Measuring beam steering range, power efficiency, beam profile, and divergence.

Main Results:

• Achieved large-angle beam steering over a ±37° field of regard in the visible spectrum.
• Maintained over 50% of on-axis power at 37° steering angle.
• Delivered 48% of incident power on-axis for a single beam.
• Preserved a Gaussian beam profile across the full steering range with 2.1 mrad on-axis divergence.

Conclusions:

• Computer-generated holographic Fresnel zone plates on SLMs are effective for multibeam large-angle steering.
• This technique offers independent control of beam position and intensity, crucial for advanced optical applications.
• The demonstrated performance metrics indicate suitability for applications requiring dynamic and precise beam manipulation.