Electro-optic modulator with improved acousto-optic suppression, heat transfer and mechanical support
US4229079A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 20, 1978 |
| Grant date | Oct 21, 1980 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 20, 1998 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02F2201/505
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An improved electro-optic moduator device is disclosed which provides strain-free mounting of an electro-optic crystal within a housing assembly and suppression of acousto-optic effects within the crystal. An acoustic matching liquid having an acoustic impedance substantially matching the acoustic impedance of the electro-optic crystal is disposed within the housing enveloping longitudinally the crystal. The acoustic matching liquid effectively suppresses the acousto-optic resonances within the crystal by coupling the acoustic energy out of the crystal into the liquid. The liquid enveloping the crystal also provides a uniform heat conduction path for minimizing thermal gradient variations and the resulting thermally induced strain within the crystal. A zinc oxide suspension in silicone oil is an exemplary acoustic matching liquid for gallium arsenide or cadmium telluride crystals. In one embodiment the acoustic matching liquid has a consistency of a slurry capable of being recirculated through the housing to improve the heat transfer characteristics of the liquid. In a further embodiment an acoustic absorber, disposed in a spaced apart relationship about the crystal, is adapted for…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.