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Ultrasonic levitation-based contactless actuation for reflective optical beam steering
Optics Express
|June 11, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a novel contactless optical beam steering method using acoustic radiation forces to levitate and tilt a mirror. This innovative technique offers high efficiency and wear-free operation for advanced photonics applications.
Area of Science:
- Photonics and Optical Engineering
- Acoustic Physics
- Materials Science
Background:
- High-performance optical beam steering faces challenges in achieving large deflection angles, high throughput, fast response, and long lifetimes simultaneously.
- Existing methods like mechanical scanners, MEMS mirrors, and optical phased arrays (OPAs) have limitations in meeting all performance criteria.
- The need for non-contact, wear-free, and efficient beam-steering solutions is critical for advanced optical systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and demonstrate a novel contactless beam-steering mechanism.
- To investigate the use of acoustic radiation forces for actuating a levitated reflective element.
- To explore the potential for wide-angle, high-efficiency, and wear-free optical beam steering.
Main Methods:
- A dual-array ultrasonic standing-wave field was employed to create a stable potential well for levitating a lightweight aluminum mirror.
- Acoustic radiation forces were used to controllably tilt the levitated mirror, enabling contactless beam steering.
- Experimental characterization of optical throughput, deflection angles, and settling times was performed.
Main Results:
- The prototype demonstrated an optical throughput of approximately 75%.
- Five discrete and repeatable steering states with optical deflections up to ~±8° were achieved with settling times in the tens of milliseconds.
- Numerical studies based on an validated acoustic model suggest potential for continuous steering up to ~17.6° optical deflection.
Conclusions:
- Acoustic radiation-force actuation presents a promising, previously underexplored route for optical beam steering.
- This contactless method eliminates mechanical contact, friction, and wear, offering long operational lifetimes.
- The technology opens new opportunities for reconfigurable free-space photonics, potentially surpassing existing non-contact steering technologies.
