Invention:
Researchers at the University of Arizona have developed a method to replicate holographic optical elements (HOEs) in a manner that eliminates the problems with contact copy techniques, and introduces additional functionalities not possible to achieve with those techniques. UArizona's novel process replicates volume HOEs based on optical contact with the master HOE. Unlike common industry variants, no physical contact is required between the master HOE and the copy HOE.
Background:
Hologram replication is an important topic when considering mass-production of volume holographic optical elements (HOEs) of all shapes and sizes. The current standard is the replication technique known as contact copy, which involves making direct contact with the copy HOE is order to create the master HOE. Contact copy and variant methods face issues with the fabrication process, complexity of design, speed of systems and sensitivity problems due to mechanical vibration.
Applications:
- Photovoltaic applications
- Augmented/virtual reality
- Security
Advantages:
- Ease of use
- Improves alignment
- Preserves quality of master hologram
- Reduces sensitivity to manufacturing speed
- Accommodates HOEs of complex shapes
Status: issued U.S. patent #11,714,382
