Laser-speckle reduction technology boasts minimal size and low cost

March 1, 2011
Numerous laser-speckle reduction (LSR) technologies have been developed in recent years using a variety of optoelectronic techniques that typically involve some type of vibration mechanism and diffuser optics.

Numerous laser-speckle reduction (LSR) technologies have been developed in recent years using a variety of optoelectronic techniques that typically involve some type of vibration mechanism and diffuser optics. A new LSR technology from Optotune (Zurich, Switzerland) is also based on a moving diffuser but offers true miniaturization and much lower cost compared to other commercially available options.

The Optotune LSR uses a dynamic process: The speckle pattern is moved at a sufficiently high frequency and amplitude such that the detection system integrates the speckle pattern as a uniform light distribution. A moving diffuser is bonded to an electroactive polymer membrane that includes two electrodes in the x-y plane. By pulsing the x and y electrodes with a π/2 phase difference, a circular motion is obtained. The moving frequency is optimal when reaching the resonance frequency of the system to provide the highest speckle reduction. Optotune says the entire speckle reducer can be made as small as 6 × 9 × 1 mm3, depending on the required aperture. And using batch processing, it estimates the LSR cost at only a couple of dollars in high volume.

Contact Mark Blum at [email protected].

About the Author

John Wallace | Senior Technical Editor (1998-2022)

John Wallace was with Laser Focus World for nearly 25 years, retiring in late June 2022. He obtained a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and physics at Rutgers University and a master's in optical engineering at the University of Rochester. Before becoming an editor, John worked as an engineer at RCA, Exxon, Eastman Kodak, and GCA Corporation.

Sponsored Recommendations

How to Tune Servo Systems: Force Control

Oct. 23, 2024
Tuning the servo system to meet or exceed the performance specification can be a troubling task, join our webinar to learn to optimize performance.

Laser Machining: Dynamic Error Reduction via Galvo Compensation

Oct. 23, 2024
A common misconception is that high throughput implies higher speeds, but the real factor that impacts throughput is higher accelerations. Read more here!

Boost Productivity and Process Quality in High-Performance Laser Processing

Oct. 23, 2024
Read a discussion about developments in high-dynamic laser processing that improve process throughput and part quality.

Precision Automation Technologies that Minimize Laser Cut Hypotube Manufacturing Risk

Oct. 23, 2024
In this webinar, you will discover the precision automation technologies essential for manufacturing high-quality laser-cut hypotubes. Learn key processes, techniques, and best...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Laser Focus World, create an account today!