Optical component installation and train alignment process utilizing metrology and plastic deformation
AssigneeAxsun Technologies, Inc.
InventorsSteven D. Conover, Randal A. Murdza, Margaret A. Stern
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Abstract
A micro-optical train manufacturing process includes a step of characterizing the position of optical components on an optical bench, typically using a metrology system. These optical components are then aligned with respect to each other in a passive alignment step based on data from the metrology system and optical system design information. As a result, a subsequent active align process can be avoided in some situations, or if a subsequent active alignment process is performed, the time required for that active alignment process can be reduced because of this initial metrology-based passive alignment step.
Claims48
A micro optical train manufacturing process, comprising:
- installing optical components, which include mounting structures, onto an optical bench to form an optical train by bonding the mounting structures to the optical bench;
- after installation of the optical components onto the optical bench, measuring positions of the optical components of the optical train using a vision system;
- and
- after measuring the position of the optical components, aligning the optical components of the optical train in response to the positions by mechanically engaging and moving the mounting structures to plastically deform the mounting structures.
A micro optical train manufacturing process, comprising:
- characterizing an optical property of at least some of the optical components prior to installing the optical components on the optical bench;
- installing and bonding the optical components onto an optical bench to form an optical train;
- after installation of the optical components onto the optical bench, measuring positions of the optical components of the optical train;
- and
- after measuring the position of the optical components, aligning the optical components of the optical train in response to the positions and in response to the optical property.
A micro optical train manufacturing process, comprising:
- determining focal lengths of at least one of the optical components prior to installing the optical components on the optical bench;
- installing and bonding the optical components onto an optical bench to form an optical train;
- after installation of the optical components onto the optical bench, measuring positions of the optical components of the optical train;
- and
- after measuring the position of the optical components, aligning the optical components of the optical train in response to the positions and the determined focal lengths.
A micro optical train manufacturing process, comprising:
- characterizing positions of optical elements on mounting structures of optical components prior to installing the optical components on optical benches by reference to light that is transmitted through the optical elements;
- installing optical components onto the optical benches to form optical trains;
- after the installation of the optical components on the optical benches, measuring positions of the optical components of the optical trains;
- and
- after measuring the positions of the optical components, aligning the optical components of the optical trains in response to the positions of the optical components in the optical trains and the position of the optical elements on the mounting structures of the optical components.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.