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Advanced iterative algorithm for phase calibration of spatial light modulators integrated in optical instrumentation
Applied Optics
|August 5, 2020
Summary
We developed a new method to calibrate spatial light modulators (SLMs) even with vibrations. This advanced iterative algorithm (AIA) approach improves calibration accuracy in challenging environments.
Area of Science:
- Optical Engineering
- Instrumentation Science
Background:
- Spatial light modulators (SLMs) are crucial for wavefront modulation.
- Accurate calibration of SLMs is essential for their reliable performance in optical systems.
- Environmental factors like vibrations can significantly degrade SLM calibration accuracy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel method for obtaining the phase modulation characteristic curve of an SLM under severe vibration conditions.
- To adapt the advanced iterative algorithm (AIA) for determining unknown phase shifts induced by SLMs during calibration.
- To enable robust SLM calibration in complex optical instruments with minimal modifications, regardless of environmental conditions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the advanced iterative algorithm (AIA) for wavefront extraction from phase-shifted interferograms.
- Adapted AIA to focus on determining unknown phase shifts from the SLM, rather than just wavefront.
- Employed a segmented calibration approach to handle additional random phase shifts from environmental changes.
- Demonstrated the technique using an SLM under vacuum conditions (10⁻⁵ mbar) in a common-path configuration.
Main Results:
- Successfully calibrated an SLM under vacuum conditions with significant vibration.
- The technique compensated for vibrations generated by vacuum pumps.
- Achieved an order of magnitude reduction in the root-mean-squared error of the calibration curve compared to methods without vibration compensation.
- Validated the method's effectiveness in a common-path setup suitable for pupil plane wavefront modulation.
Conclusions:
- The presented method enables accurate SLM calibration even under severe vibration and environmental disturbances.
- This technique enhances the applicability of SLMs in demanding optical systems, including aerospace instrumentation.
- The adapted AIA provides a robust solution for SLM calibration without requiring extensive modifications to existing optical setups.
