PATENT ABSTRACT:

A novel optical position sensor is described that uses two component photodiodes electrically connected in parallel, with opposing polarities. A lens provides optical gain and restricts the acceptance angle of the detector. The response of the device to displacements of an optical spot is similar to that of a conventional bi-cell type position sensitive detector. However, the component photodiode design enables simpler electronic amplification with inherently less electrical noise than the bi-cell. Measurements by the sensor of the pointing noise of a focused helium-neon laser as a function of frequency demonstrate high sensitivity and suitability for optical probe beam deflection experiments.

STATUS:

• U.S. Patent #5,880,461
• Available for Licensing

FOR MORE INFORMATION SEE:

Jonathan D. Spear, Richard E. Russo, "Low noise position sensitive detector for optical probe beam deflection measurements," Rev. Sci. Instrum. 67 (7), 2481-2484, July 1996

REFERENCE NUMBER: IB-1138

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