Compact acousto-optic modulator for applications as high precision measurements in laser spectroscopy, looking for licensees

A German national research institute with subsidiaries in Berlin and Braunschweig, specialized in metrology, has developed an acousto-optical modulators (AOM). AOM are used to modulate the frequency and intensity of laser radiation and can be used wherever (ultraviolet) laser frequency has to be shifted or switched with high suppression. The invention is located in the field of typical high-precision measurement technology and can be used in various areas of laser spectroscopy. The advantageous of the double-pass arrangement is in multiple use in laser technology. At high beam intensities, especially in the ultraviolet spectral range, the destruction threshold of optical components is a critical factor. By applying the offered new modulation principle, it is shifted into a non-critical range, since there is no mirror surface near a focus and thus close to the destruction threshold. This is achieved by a multiple folded beam path. By using an acousto-optical modulator (AOM) as an active element of the double-pass arrangement, a doubling of the frequency shift is possible with a good suppression of the primary beam frequency. The new design uses a specific convolution of the beam path of the array, resulting in a focus of the UV beam in free space, away from the surfaces of optical components. In addition, there is no misalignment of the emitted beam path. The arrangement is additionally integrated in a monolithic compact housing with optimized (short) optical path length and equipped with an inert gas fluid This makes it possible to design structures that are significantly smaller (20 cm x 20 cm x 5 cm) and thus more cost-effective than the classic tabletop counterpart. The solution allows a compact, reliable and economically more cost-effective arrangement. It leads to a significant reduction in assembly time, installation space, re-adjustment and cleaning work. The system can be used wherever (ultraviolet) laser frequency has to be shifted or switched with high suppression. The invention is located in the field of typical high-precision measurement technology and can be used in various areas of laser spectroscopy. Applications are possible in laser spectroscopy for research, semiconductor production and inspection as well as quantum sensor technology. With the monolithic, new design, it is estimated that savings of several thousand euros per unit can be achieved. The research institute is searching for international licensees to increase third-party funding.