Application of genetic algorithms for design optimization of a Bragg cell

摘要

Non-mechanical beam steering technologies, utilizing acousto-optics, allow for achieving the high bandwidth laser beam positioning required for optical communications, laser scanners, LADARs, etc. Properties of the Bragg cell, chiefly responsible for the efficiency and attainable characteristics of the entire positioning system, are assured by successful design of this optical component. However, design of Bragg cells is dominated by experience and intuition of the designers and the potential of this technology is not fully utilized. An optimal design problem of a Bragg cell is formulated on the basis of known equations of the underlying physical phenomena, and a genetic optimization scheme is applied for the solution of the resultant formidable problem. The approach not only yields a design solution, but also allows for the variation of the design criterion and emphasizing particular properties of the resultant component. The prowess of the proposed approach has been demonstrated by design optimization examples.