Key Takeaways Athermal optical systems leverage sophisticated athermalization techniques, advanced materials like ALLVAR Alloy 30, and precise designs to maintain performance under temperature changes.  These systems are essential in infrared imaging, space optics, and telecommunications.  Innovations such as passive athermalization and uncooled detectors enhance their versatility.  Despite material constraints and design challenges, athermal optical systems deliver reliable, cost-effective solutions for precision applications. What are Athermal Optical Systems? Athermal optical systems are a cornerstone of modern optics, designed to ensure consistent optical performance across varying temperatures. These systems are indispensable in environments where precision and reliability are non-negotiable.  Principles of Athermalization Athermalization involves a combination of optical, mechanical, and material strategies to counteract the effects of temperature changes on optical systems. The key principles include: Material SelectionChoosing the right materials is fundamental to passive athermalization. Optical Materials: Glasses with low thermal expansion and complementary dn/dT values help counteract temperature effects. Housing Materials: Innovative materials like ALLVAR Alloy 30, with a negative CTE, expand design possibilities. Optical Design StrategiesCareful optical design ensures temperature stability without compromising performance. Achrothermic Systems: Dual optimization for achromatic and athermal properties enhances system stability. Wavefront Aberration Theory: Designs are refined to minimize aberrations caused by temperature changes. Mechanical Design TechniquesMechanical adjustments play a critical role in maintaining stability. Passive Athermalization: Design housing components to compensate for thermal expansion of optical elements. Bimetallic Housings: Combining materials with different thermal properties achieves optimal results. Mathematical ModelingPrecise equations and modeling ensure accurate compensation for thermal effects. Thermal ν-number and CTD can be used to calculate and correct focal shifts due to temperature variations. Index MatchingSynchronizing refractive index changes and thermal expansion ensures seamless performance. This technique enhances reliability but can add design complexity. The focal length of a lens shifts due to temperature changes that alter the refractive index and the lens’s position Advantages of Athermal Systems Athermal systems excel in maintaining performance across extreme temperature ranges. But the benefits of athermal systems extend beyond temperature stability. Other advantages you are likely to see include: Reliability: With fewer active components, athermal systems are robust and require less maintenance. Cost-Effectiveness: Passive designs eliminate the need for energy-intensive thermal controls, making them ideal for challenging environments. Limitations Despite their advantages, athermal systems face inherent challenges that demand innovative solutions. Design Complexity: Developing athermal systems requires advanced techniques and extended timelines. Performance Trade-offs: Prioritizing thermal stability may impact other optical properties. Environmental Sensitivity: While effective against temperature changes, these systems can still be influenced by factors like humidity or pressure. Applications The versatility of athermal optical systems makes them indispensable across diverse industries. Infrared Imaging: Essential in thermal cameras, where maintaining focus is critical for security and surveillance. Space Optics: Power-efficient and reliable, they are well suited to the extreme conditions of space exploration. Industrial Monitoring: Their robustness ensures consistent performance in high-temperature environments, such as furnaces and chemical plants. Telecommunications: Athermal designs enhance fiber coupling efficiency, something that is critical for WDM systems. Recent Developments Continuous innovation is expanding the horizons of athermal optical systems. Expanded Materials: Research into materials with a negative coefficient of thermal expansion, such as ALLVAR Alloy 30, is broadening possibilities for athermal optical designs. Passive Athermalization: Collaboration between industry leaders has improved the performance of commercially available optical doublets. Technological Integration: Advances in uncooled detectors and wafer-scale manufacturing enhance the accessibility and affordability of athermal systems. Design Challenges and Solutions Designing athermal systems such as infrared optics requires overcoming significant technical obstacles, including material and thermal limitations. Material Limitations: The need for unique thermal properties, combined with optical requirements, narrows available options. Thermal Defocus: Addressing focal shifts due to temperature requires precision modeling. Solutions: Advanced materials and glass maps optimize design for both lens and housing. Integrated optical-thermal analysis anticipates potential misalignments and thermal effects. Techniques like wavefront aberration optimization enable consistent performance across varying temperatures. The Future of Athermal Optical Systems Athermal optical systems are at the forefront of research in  optical designs, as we discover new and better ways to deliver stability and reliability in diverse and challenging environments. As innovation in materials and design continues, these systems are poised to play a pivotal role in advancing industries like space exploration, telecommunications, and industrial monitoring. Their ability to adapt and perform under extreme conditions makes them an invaluable asset in modern optics. Contact us  on your athermal optics project. Related Content

Key Takeaways Edge blackening, using blackening paint, reduces stray light and enhances imaging by absorbing unwanted reflections. Applied after coating and before assembly, it is typically used on non-optical surfaces.  Blackening methods range from manual to fully automated, balancing precision and flexibility.  Key challenges—adhesion, thickness uniformity, and whitening—can be mitigated through proper blackening paint selection, surface preparation, and curing.  As automation advances, improved blackening techniques will further enhance optical component quality for precision applications. Edge Blackening Lens edge blackening is an auxiliary part of optical component processing. It is generally done after coating and gluing and before lens assembly. The optical element is blackened with black paint,  giving the surface of the element a black appearance that both improves the aesthetic appearance and absorbs and blocks unwanted light. Lens edge blackening can be done on an optical surface, such as for systems where the aperture of the light has a precision requirement. For instance,  a specific sized area of the surface of a prism or lens can be coated to avoid the entry of light beyond the aperture into the system. More often, edge blackening acts on optical components, especially on the non-optical surface of the lens, to reduce the influence of stray light and improve the imaging quality of the optical system. Stray light refers to unwanted light pollution,  the unintended light transmitted to the sensor in an optical system. There are many causes of stray light, such as the reflection of light on the surface of the structural part, the entrance of the light source outside the field of view into the system, the secondary reflection of the surface of the optical element, and so on. Various measures are taken during the production of the lens to eliminate as much stray light as possible, and one of these is  blackening the non-working face of the optical element. The non-working surface of the optical element is an important source of stray light. Blackening a non-optical surface can reduce the scattering of unexpected light and also absorb the reflected light from the lens barrel and the stop. Therefore, edge blackening is an important part of optical component processing. blacked optical components blacked optical components Processing Step Traditional edge blackening is a manual operation, but due to the popularity of automation, conventional optical components can also be fully automated. Fully automatic inking equipment can precisely control the thickness and uniformity of the inking, providing high production efficiency but poor flexibility. At present, semi-automatic or manual work is usually used for special optical components and small batch production. Preparation: The appropriate ink type and ratio should be selected for specific product requirements, and the ink should be used as soon as possible after completion. At the same time, before blackening, clean the lens to ensure the cleanliness of the blackening area. Blackening: A semi-automatic blackening device can fix the lens by vacuum suction, and manual blackening can be accomplished with an ink pen once dipped during the operation of the turntable. For some lenses with more complex shapes and smaller sizes, completely manual Blackening is used, a process that requires more skill and experience. In addition, there are spraying methods of operation. Before spraying, tape is used to protect the surface of the lens that does not need to be inked, spray with a spray gun, and dry after ink jet. Blackening process Curing: During curing the blacked component is baked in the oven. Different types of optical components should be cured at different temperatures and times, and the curing agent in the ink needs to fully react to ensure the firmness and strength of the ink layer. Common problems and improvement measures Adhesion of ink layer During blackening the ink layer needs to combine well with the optical element, and adhesion of the ink layer is an important performance index of edge blackening. One commonly used adhesion test method is the cross-cut test. The test involves using a grid tool to evenly draw a certain number of squares in a designated size on the ink layer. After the grid is completed, the tape is used to test whether the ink layer is falling off, and its adhesion can be judged according to the amount and area of the peeled ink layer. Poor adhesion of the ink layer is generally related to the control of the inking process. An abnormal proportion of the curing agent might lead to poor adhesion, as would insufficient curing temperature or time. The cleanliness of the area to be inked also affects the adhesion of the ink layer. Thickness and uniformity of the ink layer When processing optical components, it is necessary to control the size of the components after blackening. Improper blackening can cause abnormalities in the final size of the product, such as poor uniformity or overall thickness that exceeds the standard. Size overshoot will affect the assembly of the lens, while poor uniformity will affect the concentricity of the optical system. These issues are usually caused by problems in the ratio of ink used or in blackening techniques. Ink layer is whitish The purpose of blackening is to reduce the influence of stray light, and any whitening of the ink layer will affect the inhibition effect of stray light. When applying ink on a ground surface, any roughness will affect the penetration of the ink layer and may produce white spots. When the blackening area is not clean the penetration of the ink will also be hampered, resulting in a whitish ink layer. The Importance of Edge Blackening in Precision Optics Edge optical blackening is a crucial step in optical component processing, significantly reducing stray light and enhancing imaging performance. By carefully selecting blackening methods—whether manual, semi-automatic, or fully automated—manufacturers can optimize ink adhesion, thickness, uniformity, and overall quality. Addressing common challenges, such as poor adhesion, uneven coating, or whitening of the ink layer ensures the effectiveness of the blackening process. As automation technology advances, improvements in the precision and efficiency of blackening

Key Takeaways Marine Habitat Particle Polarization Detection Optical Systems analyze light scattering to identify marine particles like plankton, sediments, and microplastics. Using advanced polarizers, waveplates, and high-sensitivity detectors, these systems provide real-time, non-invasive monitoring in diverse marine environments.  Applications include ecosystem studies, pollution tracking, and deep-sea research.  Despite challenges like environmental interference and data complexity, innovations in optical design, materials, and signal processing enhance performance, making it a vital tool for marine science and conservation. A Marine Habitat Particle Polarization Detection Optical System is designed to measure the polarization of light scattered by particles in marine environments. This system is capable of identifying and characterizing different types of particles (such as plankton, sediments, or microplastics) based on their polarization properties. These optical systems have a range of applications in marine research, environmental monitoring, and ecological studies. A look at the key components and technical specifications can give us a better understanding of just how these systems function. Key Components and Technical Specifications Polarization-Based Detection– Polarizers/Analyzers: High-efficiency polarizers (for example, Glan-Thompson, Wollaston prisms, or thin-film types) ensure precise control and measurement of light polarization states.– Retarders (Waveplates): Quarter-wave or half-wave plates alter the polarization state of light, enabling a full polarization analysis.– Detectors: Optical detectors with high sensitivity and dynamic range may be used to capture faint scattered light signals. Light Source– Type: Polarized laser (e.g., 532 nm or 1064 nm) or LED sources with stable intensity.– Output Power: Typically between 10-500 mW for laser sources, depending on application depth and water turbidity.– Beam Divergence: Collimated beams with low divergence (≤0.1 mrad) for accurate light interaction with particles. Detection System–  Detectors:  Photomultiplier Tubes (PMTs): For ultra-sensitive detection of low-intensity signals.–  CMOS/CCD Cameras: For spatially resolved measurements and imaging.–  Spectral Range: 400-1000 nm (visible to near-infrared) to suit various marine applications. Sample Chamber and Flow Systems– Design: Corrosion-resistant materials (e.g., titanium, acrylic, or coated stainless steel) to withstand marine environments. – Flow Rates: Adjustable to mimic natural water movement (e.g., 0.5-5 L/min). – Optical Window: Anti-reflective and scratch-resistant, with minimal distortion. Control and Analysis Software – Real-Time Processing:  Depolarization ratio calculations can be used to classify particle types. Scattering angle analysis is used for particle sizing and shape determination. –  Data Integration: Merging optical data with auxiliary sensors (e.g., salinity, pH) provides a complete picture. – Imaging Features: 2D/3D visualization of particle distributions can be generated. Environmental Adaptability– Pressure Resistance: Operable up to depths of 1000 meters or more for deep-sea studies.– Biofouling Prevention: Coatings or UV cleaning systems are used to maintain optical clarity. With these robust features, the system is well-suited for a variety of applications, including but not limited to; Marine Ecosystem Monitoring Microplastic Detection Sediment Transport and Coastal Studies Plankton Studies Deep-Sea Monitoring Advanced Marine Habitat Particle Polarization Detection Optical Systems enable real-time, non-invasive monitoring of plankton, sediments, and microplastics. Advantages of Marine Monitoring with Polarization Detection Systems The advantages of the Marine Habitat Particle Polarization Detection Optical System are numerous, making it an indispensable tool for marine research and environmental monitoring. Its ability to deliver precise, real-time data without disturbing ecosystems provides significant benefits across a variety of applications, from microplastic detection to deep-sea monitoring. A particle polarization detection system is: Non-Invasive: Enables real-time monitoring without disturbing marine ecosystems. Highly Sensitive: Detects small or translucent particles with precision. Remote Sensing: Operates in deep-sea or inaccessible areas for continuous data collection. Multifunctional: Measures size, shape, composition, and concentration of particles simultaneously. Highly Accurate: Polarization improves particle characterization beyond standard methods. Limitations While the advantages of this technology are numerous, there are some limitations that must be addressed for optimal functionality. Environmental Interference: High turbidity and larger particles can obscure or distort measurements. Depth Constraints: Light attenuation limits detection at great depths. Complex Data Processing: Requires advanced algorithms, increasing computational demands. Durability Challenges: Harsh marine conditions necessitate regular maintenance and robust materials. Particle Sensitivity: Weakly scattering particles like nanoplastics may be hard to detect. Overcoming Challenges in Manufacturing Efforts to overcome these challenges have focused on innovative manufacturing approaches to improve the system’s reliability and efficiency. Environmental Durability: Challenge: Marine environments are harsh, with factors like high salinity, pressure, and biofouling potentially damaging optical components. Solution: Manufacturers use corrosion-resistant materials, waterproof housings, and coatings that protect optical elements from saltwater and biological growth. Additionally, anti-fouling technologies like ultrasonic cleaning or special coatings that deter biofouling can improve system longevity. Precision in Optical Components: Challenge: The optical system requires precise calibration to accurately detect polarization properties and differentiate particles. Solution: Precision manufacturing and advanced optical engineering, such as the use of high-quality lenses and detectors, are employed to achieve the necessary accuracy. Additionally, tight quality control during the manufacturing process ensures the components perform as expected under marine conditions. Size and Integration: Challenge: Combining high-precision optical components, detectors, and light sources in a compact, portable system suitable for marine deployment can be challenging.Solution: Innovations in miniaturization, lightweight materials, and modular design have enabled the system to be integrated into small, deployable units. Advances in optical microelectronics also contribute to reducing overall size without compromising performance. Signal Processing and Calibration: Challenge: Handling complex polarization data requires advanced signal processing capabilities. Solution: Development of more powerful onboard processors and improved algorithms for real-time data analysis allows for faster and more accurate data interpretation. Automated calibration techniques, such as self-calibrating systems that adjust based on environmental conditions, can also be incorporated. Marine Monitoring with Polarization Detection Systems In summary, the Marine Habitat Particle Polarization Detection Optical System is a cutting-edge tool for studying marine environments, offering unparalleled accuracy in particle identification and analysis. Its advanced components, environmental adaptability, and wide-ranging applications make it invaluable for marine research, ecological monitoring, and addressing global challenges like microplastic pollution. While limitations exist, innovative manufacturing techniques and signal processing advancements continue to enhance its performance and durability. This system represents a significant step forward in understanding and preserving marine ecosystems for future generations. Related Content

Celebrating 25 Years of Precision, Innovation, and Trust For 25 years, Avantier Inc. has excelled in delivering cutting-edge optical solutions. We take pride in the values that have defined our journey—uncompromising precision, customer-focused innovation, and steadfast dedication to quality. Our manufacturing spirit is reflected in every facet of our work. From freeform optics and aspheric lenses to OAP mirrors, optical domes, and large optics, our product range exemplifies technical mastery and attention to detail. Each project is a testament to our commitment to customization—adapting and innovating to meet the unique needs of every customer. From crafting complex microscope objectives to reverse-engineering optical components, we thrive on challenges and push the boundaries of what’s possible. Discover how we’ve solved complex challenges for our clients by exploring Avantier’s  Case Study Examples. Our solutions power cutting-edge advancements across diverse industries: aerospace, AR/MR/VR, quantum computing, environmental monitoring, machine vision, and life sciences. Whether we’re designing optical components for precision imaging in space, enabling breakthroughs in quantum systems, or advancing medical diagnostics, our focus remains on delivering unparalleled performance tailored to specific applications. The cornerstone of our success is the dedication of our production and engineering teams. We meticulously refine and enhance specifications, ensuring every detail meets exacting standards. Our tech-savvy approach, paired with a passion for precision, guarantees that nothing is left to chance. Moreover, our commitment to confidentiality builds trust and upholds professionalism, making us a dependable partner for customers worldwide. Browse our extensive product pages to learn more about our best-selling optical solutions. Customization is at the heart of what we do—there is nothing we cannot achieve. For 25 years, we’ve gone the extra mile to deliver solutions that not only meet but exceed expectations. This relentless pursuit of excellence has earned us the loyalty and trust of our customers. As we look to the future, we remain energized by the same enthusiasm and dedication that have brought us here. We are excited to continue innovating, building partnerships, and shaping the future of optical manufacturing with precision and passion. It’s our privilege to serve you.

25 Years of Innovation in Optical Applications Advances in optics have powered numerous major technological innovations over the past twenty-five years. Here we’ll look at three important applications of modern optics: in communication, in biotechnology and medicine, in autonomous vehicles, and in augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR). Photonics and Communication How have internet speeds improved so drastically in the past quarter century? One key has been the advances made in fiber optics.  Fiber optics involves the transmission of data by the passage of light through transparent glass or plastic fibers that are typically about the diameter of a human hair. Total internal reflection enables the light to  propagate over long distance extremely fast with minimum attenuation and  reduction in intensity. Advances in the optical manufacturing industry mean that optical fibers today are able to transmit light over very long distances with minimal loss. When fiber optics were first introduced back in the 1950s, impurities in the glass meant the method could only be used for short distances, such as those needed for endoscopy. By the end of the century, the combination of laser and better fiber optics had enabled the method to be successfully used for long-range communications. But in the past 25 years, we’ve seen the introduction of differential phase-shift keying, where efficient is improved by encoding data in the phase change between bits rather than amplitude.  We’ve also seen the introduction of ultra-low loss pure silica core fiber, which brings us close to theoretical minimum loss for silica fiber and thus increases capacity significantly.  Today, we can create thinner, more flexible fibers than ever before, and these fibers are being integrated with photonics devices for more efficient systems and reduced complexity.  Biotechnology and Medicine Modern biotechnological and medical applications of optics highlight how one important change we’ve seen over the past quarter century: the integration of digital technologies.  A photonics lab-on-a-chip condenses a full spectrophotometric analysis system inside a tiny chip One example of these is the photonics lab-on-a-chip (PLOC), miniature spectrophotometric analysis systems that can be used for drug discovery and development, for genomics, for clinical diagnosis, and for cellomics. PLOCs have the potential to  provide instant, on the go diagnostics without relying on an external lab and long turn around times. These tiny optical systems can be produced by soft lithography, injection molding, micro milling, or hot embossing. Another manufacturing option that is currently being perfected is 3D printing, which allows us to manufacture these systems at scale in a reproducible, fully predictable manner.  Other examples of advances in biotechnology and medicine include improvements in optical coherence tomography (OCT) and endoscopes as well as in the optical sensors and lasers used in surgery.  LIDAR and Autonomous Vehicles Less than fifteen years ago a basic LIDAR system priced at around $75,000, making it an impractical choice for nearly all commercial and consumer applications and also out of range for most researchers. LIDAR (LIght Detection and Ranging technology) involves using the time of flight of a laser beam to ‘map’ surroundings in 3D. It detects detail significantly better than does radar, and it can see just as well in the dark as in daylight. This makes it an ideal provider for machine vision on self-driving cars— if the price tag would go down. Optical innovations have made LIDAR available to everyone, and autonomous vehicles are that much safer Thanks to advances in the technology; it has; today, even the iPhone in your pocket contains a basic LIDAR system, and the more capable sensors such as those used in AVs cost just hundreds rather than thousands of dollars. Part of this is innovations in design, resulting in a simpler, more efficient setup and fewer moving parts. Part of it is innovations in manufacturing, which enable us to produce powerful optical components in smaller sizes with more precision than ever before. Today, a full-powered LIDAR systems can survey over 1 million points per second with 5 mm accuracy. 25 Years of Innovation at Avantier At Avantier, we’re proud to have been a premier producer of quality custom optics for 25 years. Our design and manufacturing teams have been key players leading the advances in optical manufacturing that are empowering technological innovations today. If this topic interests you, take a look at our other articles on optical innovations and what the past quarter century has meant for the industry. References Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia. “fiber optics”. Encyclopedia Britannica, 29 Dec. 2024,   Fiberoptix Team, History of Fiber Optics Timeline. March 20, 2024.  Rodríguez-Ruiz,I. Ackermann,T. , Muñoz-Berbel, X. and Llobera, A. “Photonic Lab-on-a-Chip: Integration of Optical Spectroscopy in Microfluidic Systems” Analytical Chemistry 2016 88 (13), 6630-6637  Sabri, N., Aljunid, S.A., Salim, M.S., Fouad, S. (2015). Fiber Optic Sensors: Short Review and Applications. In: Gaol, F., Shrivastava, K., Akhtar, J. (eds) Recent Trends in Physics of Material Science and Technology. Springer Series in Materials Science, vol 204. Springer, Singapore.  Wang, H., Enders, A., Preuss, JA. et al. 3D printed microfluidic lab-on-a-chip device for fiber-based dual beam optical manipulation. Sci Rep 11, 14584 (2021).  Related content

25 Years of Change in Optical Manufacturing and Product Specs Manufacturing optics has seen extensive developments over the last 25 years.  In the past, optical manufacturing relied heavily on manual processes and standardization. Customization was difficult, and optical parts were typically produced with high tolerances. Today, techniques such as nanotechnology, additive manufacturing (3D printing) and CNC manufacturing enable us to custom produce precision optics with almost any geometry desired. What does this mean in practice? Let’s take a closer look at the evolution of manufacturing in two specific product lines: aspheric lenses and microscope objective lenses.  Advances in Optical Manufacturing: The Aspheric Lens Aspheric lenses are lenses designed to eliminate spherical aberrations, coma, field distortions, and astigmatism, among other aberrations. They have a non-spherical profile and focus light to a small point. 25 years ago the manufacturing of aspherical lenses was an extremely expensive undertaking, but today we can produce these lenses at scale and at a price point that makes them affordable for applications across industry, research, medicine, and defense. Today, aspheric lenses are included even in consumer products. Optical advances mean that today we can produce high quality aspheric lenses at a better price point than ever before. What made the difference? Changes in manufacturing technology, advances in materials, and innovations in computational design were all part of it.  Modern materials such as plastics and advanced optical glasses not only provide high optical qualities like reduced chromatic aberrations, they are, in some cases, easier to form into non-spherical optics. Plastics, for instance, lend themselves well to molding and can thus be shaped into any aspherical form desired. New Manufacturing Techniques like computer controlled precision polishing enable us to perfect even the most intricate aspheric shapes. Other  manufacturing techniques like advanced glass molding and injection molding have seen vast improvements over the past two decades. This new new fine control of the manufacturing process enables us to produce miniature aspheres as well as  custom pieces created to our customers’ exact specifications. Innovations in Computational Design allow our optical designers to calculate the ideal geometry for an asphere given required specifications and application notes.  Advances in Optical Manufacturing: Microscope Objective Lenses Microscope objective lenses are the optical centerpiece of the microscope. They consist of a multi-lens assembly and are placed so as to accept light emitted by the object (specimen) being imaged. Perhaps not surprisingly, the objective lens is the most difficult part of a microscope to design and produce, and the quality of the final image is directly related to the quality of the objective. Microscope objectives have seen innovations in materials, design, and manufacturing technology over the past 25 years Microscope objective lenses can be produced with increased numerical aperture and increased magnification when compared to 25 years ago. Examples of these in use include ultra-high resolution objectives for applications like STED (Stimulated Emission Depletion) microscopy and PALM (Photo-Activated Localization Microscopy.)  Just as we saw when we looked at the evolution of aspheric lenses, improvements in objective lenses have been driven by three key factors: advances in materials and manufacturing technology and innovations in design.  Modern materials used in microscope objectives include advanced substrates like fluorite glass.  Many modern objectives also feature enhanced optical coatings, which minimize optical aberrations, reduce light loss and increase contrast. This enables the microscope to produce images that are sharper and more vibrant, even under high magnification. Design innovations include the refinement of flat-field corrected objectives as well as  immersion lens systems.  We’ve become adept at creating smaller, more compact objective lenses that perform better than the bulky system of yesterday.  These lenses may be designed with the special needs of fluorescence and confocal microscopy in mind, enabling them to be used for high contrast imaging of living cells. Advances in manufacturing technology enable us to produce high quality objectives in a more efficient, cost-effective manner than before, and to conduct extensive automated quality controls on each piece before it is assembled into the final objective. This is only a small survey of some of the advances we’ve seen over the past twenty-five years. If you’d like to find out more, have a look at our article on how optical innovations like these are fueling technological change. References Blom, H and Widengren, J. Stimulated Emission Depletion Microscopy. Chemical Reviews 2017 117 (11), 7377-7427.  Singh, R.,  and Chen, Y.  “Comprehensive advancements in automatic digital manufacturing of spherical and aspherical optics,” Proc. SPIE 12769, Optical Metrology and Inspection for Industrial Applications X, 127690B (27 November 2023); Spring, Keller, & Davidson. Microscope Objectives Introduction. Evident Scientific,  Yin, S., Jia, H., Zhang, G. et al. Review of small aspheric glass lens molding technologies. Front. Mech. Eng. 12, 66–76 (2017).  Related content

25 Years of Change in Technology and Features of Optics, optical technologies The past 25 years have seen enormous advances and transformations in optics and optical technologies. Here we’ll look at just what changed— and how these changes are transforming our lives, work, and research.  Then and Now: 25 Years of Optics What would most surprise a time-traveling visitor from 2000, visiting today’s optical factory? Would it be the sleek, high-performance optics that come in smaller and smaller sizes, with finely crafted detail that the naked eye cannot even distinguish? Would it be the versatile flexibility in free-form optics, or the economical new ways we have of manufacturing aspheres to scale? Would it be the new lightweight, eco-friendly materials we have to work with, or our abilities to use computer technology to polish and perfect precision optics to meet even the highest standards? All this— and much more. The history of optics, from the time when Egyptians and Mesopotamians crafted their first lenses till now is marked with multiple periods of fast growth and multiple key milestones, but there’s something special about the rate of recent progress. Optics has come into its own, and the optical industry is advancing at exponential rates. What happened to make today’s optics so much smaller, smarter, and more efficient? Let’s look at 25 years of progress, condensed into one brief page.  Smaller Microlenses aren’t new— but the techniques we use to produce them have changed dramatically, giving  flexibility that just wasn’t there 25 years ago. We’ve also learned how to manufacture thinner, lighter, standard components and how to make a tiny assembly do the job that before required a large, clunky collection of optical components.  One example of this is the digital camera of 2000. Back then we’d figured out the technology to take digital pictures, but it came in a cumbersome package that required delicate treatment. Today, we’ve managed to condense that same capability into fingerprint-size in a  smartphone camera— and make it robust enough you can carry it around in your pocket.  Smarter Look through any lineup of modern optical products versus older versions, and you’ll notice immediately that today’s optical products are  smarter than they were yesteryear. 25 years ago even complex assemblies relied on analog components and had limited functionality. In most cases, they required extensive manual control. Today, by contrast, optics are coupled with advanced computer technology and AI to create highly automated systems that require a minimum of personal guidance and intervention. Automation, real-time data analysis and adaptive functionality can easily be built into an optical system.  But there’s another important way that the optical industry has got smarter: manufacturing processes are smarter too. Take the process of polishing a precision lens— no longer do we need to rely on manual labor; instead, computer-controlled polishing can ensure that the final result Is as smooth and blemish-free as the application requires, even if the optic is not a standard spherical shape.  More Efficient But today’s optics aren’t only smaller and smarter– they’re also more streamlined and efficient.  You’re likely to have noticed that most of the optics you work with on a day to day just work better than those you used even ten years ago. Advances in design mean we’re better at correcting aberrations than we were, and enhanced optical coatings enable us to fine-tune the function of an optical component in a way that was never before possible.  As an optical designer and manufacturer, we’ve also perfected more efficient manufacturing processes for many optical components that used to be impractical to produce at scale. Free-form optics, aspheres, and micro-optics are just some examples of specialized components that used to be very limited 25 years ago and can be produced on scale today.  Efficient manufacturing processes for optical components like aspheres enable them to be produced at an affordable price bracket and at scale New Materials, More Durability One of the secrets to the advances in optics we see today lies in the use of advanced materials like composites, silicon carbide (SiC),  and lightweight alloys. Many traditional optical materials were heavy and environmentally unfriendly, and often they lacked industrial strength and durability. Something as simple as changing the substrate used can result in enormous changes in performance, lifespan, and environmental sustainability.  Modern materials that were not available 25 years ago enable us to produce optics that are stronger, better, and more efficient. The enhanced durability of many modern materials leads to one special side effect: simpler assemblies. No longer do we have to use over-engineering to ensure system durability. Instead, it’s built-in from the substrate up. 25 Years of Advances: Product Specs and Optical Applications If this article has whet your appetite and you’d love more detailed information on how optics have changed over the past twenty-five years, have a look at our two special articles detailing changes in product specs and in optical application. And if you’d like to inquire how you can harness some of these technological advances in your own application, contact us today!  References Corning, Anne. The Latest Advancements in Optics. March 18, 2024.  Hecht, Jeff. Photonic Frontiers: Optics: Looking back/Looking forward: A transformation of optical components. Jan 2015, Laser Focus World,  Rivera, Lanie. Optics Become Less Rough, More Tough. July/August 2016, Science & Technology Review,  Winzer, P.  et al.”Fiber-optic transmission and networking: the previous 20 and the next 20 years [Invited],” Opt. Express 26, 24190-24239 (2018) Wikipedia contributors, “History of optics,” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia, Related content

Key Takeaways Photoacoustic Microscopy (PAM) is a high-resolution imaging technique that integrates optical and acoustic methods to overcome the optical diffusion limit.  It enables in vivo imaging at depths of several millimeters using endogenous and exogenous contrast agents.  PAM is categorized into optical-resolution (OR-PAM) and acoustic-resolution (AR-PAM) types, each suited for different depth ranges. Applications include medical diagnostics, surgical guidance, and disease research.  Avantier provides custom optics for PAM, supporting breakthroughs in imaging speed and quality, including real-time intraoperative histology. Photoacoustic Microscopy Photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) is a cutting-edge in vivo tissue imaging technique that combines optical and acoustic methods to break through the optical diffusion limit. It is capable of producing images with high spatial resolution at depths up to several millimeters and can simultaneously image multiple contrasts. One could, for instance, use these methods and different contrasts for anatomical, functional, flow dynamic, metabolic, and molecular image modalities.  How Does Photoacoustic Microscopy Work? Photoacoustic microscopy begins with light: typically, a nano-second pulsed laser beam. It is this laser pulse energy that triggers the acoustic effect.  Photons, absorbed by tissue, cause a local temperature rise. Weak acoustic scattering occurs as the tissues expand in a thermo-elastic way, and the resulting wide-band acoustic wave can be detected by ultrasound technology.  The energy is converted into a voltage signal, and a one-dimensional, depth-encoded image, called an A-line, is created for each laser pulse. 2D raster scanning is then used to form a 3D photoacoustic image from multiple one-dimensional A-lines. Photoacoustic microscopy uses both light and acoustic methods to produce an image more detailed than could be produced by either method alone The key to in vivo imaging with PAM is the deep penetration of diffused photons and the low scattering of sound — 1000 times less than that of light. This enables researchers to produce quality imaging at a depth impossible with only optical methods and also enables them to determine the exact penetration depth at which imaging should occur. This versatility  means one can use the same methodology for high resolution imaging of a mouse ear and a mouse brain, for instance. Axial resolution is determined by the bandwidth of the ultrasound transducer.  There are two main types of photoacoustic microscopy; OR-PAM, optical resolution photoacoustic microscopy, where the optical focus is tighter than the acoustic focus, and AR-PAM, acoustic resolution photoacoustic microscopy, where the acoustic focus is tighter. OR-PAM is typically used for depths up to 1 mm, and AR-PAM for depths from 1-3mm.  Optical properties of the tissue being imaged determine the contrast of the image. Non-invasive endogenous contrast agents such as intrinsic red blood cells, DNA, lipids, and glucose can be used as contrast absorbers.  For other applications, exogenous contrast agents such as organic dyes, nanoparticles, or fluorescent proteins may be used. Photoacoustic microscopy can produce high resolution images with endogenous contrast agents. This graph compares the absorption spectra of some of the more common contrast agents found in biological tissue Applications of Photoacoustic Microscopy PAM imaging is particularly important in medicine and research, where it provides a window into what is happening inside otherwise opaque tissue. It may be used for diagnostics, providing valuable data on blood flow, oxygen metabolic rates, or tumor growth.  It can also be used to guide a surgeon’s knife in delicate surgeries, or to gain a better understanding of the changes that occur in diseased tissue.  One example of photoacoustic microscopy in action in medical research is in the study of inflammatory skin diseases. Using PAM combined with optical coherence tomography, researchers were able to determine oxygenation differences as well as thickened epidermis, vascular patterns with dilated vessels in a disorderly network, and the absence of melanin in eczematic in skin tissue.  Photoacoustic Microscopy at Avantier At Avantier, we specialize in producing high quality custom optics for applications like photoacoustic microscopy. Our clients have been able to push past the limits of known technologies and achieve novel imaging speeds and quality. One example is the authors of a recent paper in Science Advances, Optical-resolution parallel ultraviolet photoacoustic microscopy for slide-free histology, who used a custom F-theta lens produced by Avantier  to achieve the imaging speeds needed for potential real time intraoperative photoacoustic histology.  Do you have an optical project you’d like to take to the next level? Our experienced engineering and design teams are available to work with you to design and bring to production the exact optical components or systems your application requires. Contact us today for your next project.  References Attia ABE, Balasundaram G, Moothanchery M, Dinish US, Bi R, Ntziachristos V, Olivo M. A review of clinical photoacoustic imaging: Current and future trends. Photoacoustics. 2019 Nov 7;16:100144  Ning, B., Sun, N., Cao, R. et al. Ultrasound-aided Multi-parametric Photoacoustic Microscopy of the Mouse Brain. Sci Rep 5, 18775 (2016). Rui Cao et al. ,Optical-resolution parallel ultraviolet photoacoustic microscopy for slide-free histology.Sci. Adv.10,eado0518(2024). Yao J, Wang LV. Photoacoustic Microscopy. Laser Photon Rev. 2013 Sep 1;7(5):10.1002/lpor.201200060. doi: 10.1002/lpor.201200060. PMID: 24416085; PMCID: PMC3887369. Zabihian B., Weingast J., Liu M., Zhang E., Beard P., Pehamberger H., Drexler W., Hermann B. In vivo dual-modality photoacoustic and optical coherence tomography imaging of human dermatological pathologies. Biomed. Opt. Express. 2015;6(9):3163–3178. doi: 10.1364/BOE.6.003163. Related Content

Key Takeaways LiDAR enables advanced VR experiences by providing precise, real time 3D spatial mapping.  Once bulky and expensive, modern LiDAR systems are now compact enough to fit into smartphones like the iPhone Pro 12.  This technology enhances VR/AR experiences with benefits such as better spatial tracking, faster virtual object placement, enhanced realism, and improved depth sensing.  Key specifications include detection range, range precision, accuracy, field of view, and scan patterns.  Avantier specializes in designing high precision LiDAR components, enabling customized solutions for AR/VR applications. LiDAR VR/AR Applications LiDAR VR/AR  applications are taking augmented and virtual reality applications to the next level. Once far to expensive and bulky for consumer applications, today a basic LiDAR system can be condensed to fit into a smart phone and cost less than a hundred dollars. Here we’ll look at just how they work, and what to expect from the combination of LiDAR and AR/VR. LiDAR for AR/VR makes augmented or virtual reality more responsive What is LiDAR? Think of LiDAR as optical radar. An acronym for Light Detection and Ranging, it uses light waves from a laser to create a highly accurate, super-speedy 3D map of an object or area. Wavelength of the laser is typically 250 nm to 11μm but depends on the application requirements. A quick working sensor makes time of flight  (TOF) calculations— determining just how long each laser pulse takes to reach the target and return— and uses this raw data  and point clouds to create a precise 3D map of terrain or objects and their placement in space. The intensity of the reflected light can provide extensive information, too, about the type of materials scanned and their density. LiDAR for AR/VR uses time of flight principles to determine the topology of an object or landscape LiDAR scanners were originally developed for research purposes, especially meteorology applications. It was successfully used to map the surface of the moon back in 1971, but the technology behind it has improved dramatically and LiDAR today is cheaper, faster, and more powerful than ever before. This new affordability is part of the reason behind the explosion of LiDAR use across real world industries today. We see it in self-driving cars, in speed enforcement, in stormwater management in agriculture— and in AR/VR. LiDAR and AR Before the integration of LiDAR with augmented reality, AR was limited by clunky machine vision systems that struggled to provide precise real time 3D mapping. Today, with precise spatial mapping at the speed of light, LiDAR gives AR and VR systems the potential to be faster, more accurate, and so more responsive. Today LiDAR for AR/VR can be condensed to fit inside a smartphone When Apple integrated a miniature LiDAR system into the 2020 iPad Pro and iPhone Pro 12, the power of LiDAR became available to AR and VR app makers for the first time. Since then, they’ve been experimented with extensively.  There’s more than one way that augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality systems can be improved by LiDAR integration. A few benefits of the integration include: Better Spatial Tracking Faster Placement of Virtual Objects Enhanced Realism Improved Depth Sensing LiDAR for AR/VR Specifications Producers of smartphones and AR and VR viewing devices today have the potential to take their viewer’s experience to the next level by incorporating LiDAR technology into their devices. But types and capabilities of LiDAR scanners vary greatly. Here’s a brief summary of some of the most important specs for AR/VR LiDAR. The LiDAR Detection Range gives the maximum distance at which LiDAR can detect an object. It is dependent on laser power, laser type, and aperture size.  While airborne LiDAR may be used to map surfaces hundreds to thousands of meters away, the types of LiDAR incorporated in consumer devices typically have a much more limited detection range. The iPhone Pro 12’s LiDAR, for instance, can scan at distances up to five meters.  LiDAR Range Precision tells you just how repeatable measurements will be. If precision is high, multiple measurements of the same object will cluster close to a mean value; but low precision tells you there is significant scatter. LiDAR Range Accuracy is like precision, but rather than comparing measurements to each other, it compares them to the actual distance. High accuracy means measurements are very close to the real distance. Field of View (FOV) refers to the angle over which the LiDAR system works: either the angle covered by the sensor or that which signals are emitted, whichever is smaller. A mechanically rotating system may have 360 degree field of view, but for many virtual reality applications, a smaller FOV is sufficient.  Scan Pattern tells you how the laser beam moves to perform its measurement, and includes information like point density and the number of scan lines. In some LiDAR scanners, this may be customizable. AR/VR LiDAR at Avantier Avantier is a premier producer of custom high precision optics, including LiDAR components and systems built to our customer’s exact specifications. Our expert engineers and designers are available to help you at any stage of the process, whether you’re doing your initial research or have a custom design ready to go.  Contact us today for your next project. References Applied Tech Review. LiDAR Powering Future AR/VR and Metaverse Experiences. May 2024.  Luetzenburg, G., Kroon, A. & Bjørk, A.A. Evaluation of the Apple iPhone 12 Pro LiDAR for an Application in Geosciences. Sci Rep 11, 22221 (2021).  Wandinger, Ulla. “Introduction to lidar.” Lidar: range-resolved optical remote sensing of the atmosphere. New York, NY: Springer New York, 2005. 1-18.  Related Content