Reconfigurable Holographic Filters

The development of an all solid-state, rapidly tunable optical filter will offer important advantages for many applications, including optical surveillance sensors, optical communications, optical computing and related areas. The replacement of larger, bulk-optic mechanical systems will result in lower throughput losses, lower weight and volume, and higher reliability. For this program, Foster-Miller proposes to exploit the unique properties of a new holographic film that can be reliably and repeatedly tuned with an applied voltage at millisecond speeds. The technique involves the combination of liquid crystals in a polymer holographic host. Using this composite a nurnber of optical interconnect components, active solar filters, and other optical and fiber optic devices have been previously tested. The goal of the Phase I effort will be to demonstrate wide band tuning over at least three wavelength regions with diffraction efficiencies approaching 99 percent and near zero optical throughput losses. Multiple holographic film elements will be scanned at rates exceeding 100 Hz. In Phase II we will demonstrate a prototype multiple filter unit to be tested under realistic conditions. Commercialization issues will be explored with our partner Polaroid Corporation.