The Two-Mirror Alignment System.
Abstract
An alignment system consisting of two servoed mirrors is an essential part of many laser systems. The function of these two-mirror alignment systems is to maintain the laser beam fixed in position and direction at some reference plane. Here, an in depth analysis of the staircase configuration is reported. Even with the restriction to the staircase configuration, the analysis is quite general since the configuration is not restricted to the case for which the exit beam direction is parallel to the input beam direction. In addition, the effects of various placements of the sensors is considered. It is found that, in general, the error signals are not directly proportional to the laser beam position and direction variables at the output of the alignment system. This can have important consequences for system specification and design. The control system aspects covered are stability, error signal derotation, and decoupling. Examples are given. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADA023993
Entities
People
- Charles J. Albers Jr
Organizations
- Naval Ordnance Laboratory