Unlock flexibility and portability with a new multi-purpose device using acousto-optic modulation

Until now, acousto-optic modulator (AOM) devices in the field have been limited to use on a single frequency, and therefore are not adjustable without realignment – meaning the user requires multiple devices for different purposes. A new device overcomes this limitation, enabling users to selectively perform fine adjustments to the frequency of inlet laser light in a new multi-use, adjustable device.

Background

AOM technologies are already widespread across multiple industries and applications – but current options on the market have significant limitations. AOMs use sound waves in a crystal generated by radio frequency (RF) signals to adjust the frequency, intensity, or direction of a laser. For some uses, it is necessary to change the frequency of the laser multiple times.

At present, there are no AOMs on the market that allow adjustability of frequency in a single device while also being portable and hard-wearing – meaning this severely reduces their usability and practicality. As a result, users currently require multiple devices for different laser frequencies to avoid misalignment during use.

Due to this, it was essential for a flexible, compact solution to be found that allowed both portability and flexibility in AOM technologies.

The solution

Designed by Dstl, a new development overcomes these user issues and provides an improvement on existing AOM technologies. Its dynamic correction system enhances the capability of an AOM device beyond a single adjusting frequency, giving it greater and more flexible functionality.

This also means a single AOM device can now provide the channel and frequency selection that previously required multiple devices in the field – removing the issues of weight, size, cost and practicality users currently face – which has not been possible before now.

Key benefits

This development is adjustable and flexible, allowing a single device to provide the flexibility that previously required multiple devices.
Being a portable and compact integrated system, this development results in cost, material, weight, and space savings.
This innovation is more robust, so has the potential to be longer lasting without losing its precision.
This has the potential to simplify the user experience by automating the required adjustments: the beam exiting the AOM after its first pass is reflected back by a single mirror which is attached to an electro-mechanical actuator.

Potential applications

GNSS-independent positioning, navigation, and timing systems

This device is applicable as a standardised subcomponent for emerging quantum sensing and timing technologies. These technologies can be used for navigation underwater or in other areas where there is no GNSS or GPS.

Telecoms applications

This technology can be used as part of transmitting data in fiber optic lines, as it allows rapid switching between nodes which helps to achieve rapid and reliable connectivity between people and communities.

Science and engineering academic research applications

AOMs are used in research instruments including various laser measurement methods, and would be useful to research and teaching labs at universities worldwide.

LiDAR systems

This AOM can be used for atmospheric measuring as well as distance and velocity measurements due to its accuracy and reliability.

Support the increasing demand for cloud-based storage

This is applicable to AOMs allowing increased storage, security and accessibility.

Improved manufacturing processes

This includes micromachining, printing and drilling using lasers.