Technology Opportunities

Tunable optical filters usually exhibit polarization dependence, which decreases the light throughput and necessitates the use of additional components that complicate the system. We have designed novel broadband, polarization-insensitive birefringent tunable filter arrangements that allow high throughput. The filters are based on a combination of tunable birefringent layers or polarization-dependent filters in combination with one or more of the following components: (i) thin film achromatic quarter waveplates based on the form birefringence of dielectric subwavelength grating structures, (ii) nano-photonic metal structures; (iii) omnidirectional dielectric mirrors, (iv) polarization conversion mirrors, and/or (v) reflective polarized beam splitters for circularly polarized light. All these components may be implemented in thin film form on one or more substrates, such that a particularly compact and cost-effective filter can be produced. The birefringent layers may comprise any birefringent or magneto-optic layer, with liquid crystals being particularly suitable. High throughput is achieved by the use of novel polarization conversion disposition of the filter's components.

Goals and Benefits
• Polarization independence
• High light throughput
• Broadband operation
• Compact design
• Fast tuning down to sub-ms

Potential Commercial Uses and Market
• Hyper spectral imaging.
• Microscopy.
• Optical communication. mergency services

• Design completed
• Prototype under construction

Research Team
Dr. Ibrahim Abdulhalim, dep. of Electro-Optic Engineering, Ben-Gurion University, Beer-Sheva, Israel

Patent Status
Patent Pending