Serrodyne-Enabled Dual Electro-Optic Comb Interferometry for High-Precision Absolute Ranging and Integration-Ready...

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Metrology
• Precision Engineering

Background:

• Optical frequency combs (OFCs) are vital for precision metrology.
• Traditional dual electro-optic frequency comb systems use acousto-optic modulators (AOMs) which limit performance.
• AOMs restrict tuning flexibility, response speed, and power efficiency in frequency comb ranging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce an AOM-free dual electro-optic frequency comb ranging system.
• To demonstrate superior phase coherence and high-precision distance measurement.
• To showcase enhanced flexibility, reduced power consumption, and improved integration compatibility.

Main Methods:

• Developed a dual electro-optic frequency comb ranging system.
• Employed a serrodyne-modulated electro-optic modulator (EOM) for frequency shifting, replacing AOMs.
• Validated the system through experimental measurements and Allan deviation analysis.

Main Results:

• Achieved nanometric ranging precision with Allan deviation below 0.1 nm at 1 ms integration.
• Successfully tracked high-frequency vibrations up to 100 kHz.
• Demonstrated dynamic 3D surface imaging and nanoscale water surface vibration detection.
• Maintained high precision across meter-level to nanometer-scale measurements.

Conclusions:

• The AOM-free system offers superior phase coherence and precision compared to AOM-based systems.
• The serrodyne-modulated EOM approach provides enhanced flexibility and reduced RF power consumption.
• This versatile system is suitable for precision metrology and high-resolution sensing applications.