MEMS-Based Spatial Light Modulation for Long Term and Infrared Beam Steering Applications

Abstract

MEMS-based spatial modulation device diffractive beam steering enables an efficient way to manipulate light by spatial multiplexing while keeping large area throw product. Such kind of device has been applied in the various field over the past few years. In this thesis: 1) the long-term performance of a Digital Micromirror Device-based beam steering system is evaluated by monitoring diffraction efficiency over 350 hours, with a 360 Hz repetition rate. Also, diffraction efficiency was monitored while increasing the temperature of the mirror array from 45 to 75 degrees C; 2) a dual modulation method is introduced for optically enhance the diffraction efficiency of a Phase Light Modulator based beam steering system and confirmed enhancement of diffraction efficiency at 1550nm illumination from a PLM device designed for the wavelength of 633nm.