Changsoon Kim

Fast disambiguation of superimposed images for increased field of view

Many infrared optical systems in wide-ranging applications such as surveillance and security frequently require large fields of view. Often this necessitates a focal plane array (FPA) with a large number of pixels, which, in general, is very expensive. In this paper, we propose a method for increasing the field of view without increasing the pixel resolution of the FPA by superimposing the multiple subimages within a scene and disambiguating the observed data to reconstruct the original scene. This technique, in effect, allows each subimage of the scene to share a single FPA, thereby increasing the field of view without compromising resolution. To disambiguate the subimages, we develop wavelet regularized reconstruction methods which encourage sparsity in the solution. We present results from numerical experiments that demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach.

Superimposed video disambiguation for increased field of view

Many infrared optical systems in wide-ranging applications such as surveillance and security frequently require large fields of view (FOVs). Often this necessitates a focal plane array (FPA) with a large number of pixels, which, in general, is very expensive. In a previous paper, we proposed a method for increasing the FOV without increasing the pixel resolution of the FPA by superimposing multiple sub-images within a static scene and disambiguating the observed data to reconstruct the original scene. This technique, in effect, allows each sub-image of the scene to share a single FPA, thereby increasing the FOV without compromising resolution. In this paper, we demonstrate the increase of FOVs in a realistic setting by physically generating a superimposed video from a single scene using an optical system employing a beamsplitter and a movable mirror. Without prior knowledge of the contents of the scene, we are able to disambiguate the two sub-images, successfully capturing both large-scale features and fine details in each sub-image. We improve upon our previous reconstruction approach by allowing each sub-image to have slowly changing components, carefully exploiting correlations between sequential video frames to achieve small mean errors and to reduce run times. We show the effectiveness of this improved approach by reconstructing the constituent images of a surveillance camera video.

Optically multiplexed imaging with superposition space tracking

We describe a novel method to track targets in a large field of view. This method simultaneously images multiple, encoded sub-fields of view onto a common focal plane. Sub-field encoding enables target tracking by creating a unique connection between target characteristics in superposition space and the target’s true position in real space. This is accomplished without reconstructing a conventional image of the large field of view. Potential encoding schemes include spatial shift, rotation, and magnification. We discuss each of these encoding schemes, but the main emphasis of the paper and all examples are based on one-dimensional spatial shift encoding. System performance is evaluated in terms of two criteria: average decoding time and probability of decoding error. We study these performance criteria as a function of resolution in the encoding scheme and signal-to-noise ratio. Finally, we include simulation and experimental results demonstrating our novel tracking method.

MEMS-based optical beam steering system for quantum information processing in two-dimensional atomic systems

To provide scalability to quantum information processors utilizing trapped atoms or ions as quantum bits (qubits), the capability to address multiple individual qubits in a large array is needed. Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology can be used to create a flexible and scalable optical system to direct the necessary laser beams to multiple qubit locations. We developed beam steering optics using controllable MEMS mirrors that enable one laser beam to address multiple qubit locations in a two-dimensional trap lattice. MEMS mirror settling times of approximately 10 micros were demonstrated, which allow for fast access time between qubits.

Multiplexed broadband beam steering system utilizing high speed MEMS mirrors.

We present a beam steering system based on micro-electromechanical systems technology that features high speed steering of multiple laser beams over a broad wavelength range. By utilizing high speed micromirrors with a broadband metallic coating, our system has the flexibility to simultaneously incorporate a wide range of wavelengths and multiple beams. We demonstrate reconfiguration of two independent beams at different wavelengths (780 and 635 nm) across a common 5x5 array with 4 micros settling time. Full simulation of the optical system provides insights on the scalability of the system. Such a system can provide a versatile tool for applications where fast laser multiplexing is necessary.

Organic photovoltaic cell in lateral-tandem configuration employing continuously-tuned microcavity sub-cells

We propose a lateral-tandem organic photovoltaic system consisting of a dispersive-focusing element and continuously-tuned, series-connected sub-cells. The proposed system overcomes the efficiency limitation of organic photovoltaic devices by spectral re-distribution of incoming solar photons and their delivery to the wavelength-matched, resonant sub-cells. By numerical simulations, we demonstrate that optical resonance in a microcavity sub-cell with a metal/organic multilayer/metal structure can be tuned over a broad spectrum by varying the thickness of the organic multilayer. We show that the power-conversion efficiency exceeding 18% can be obtained in a lateral-tandem system employing an ideal dispersive-focusing element and the microcavity sub-cells.

Investigation of Optical Power Tolerance for MEMS Mirrors

Optical power tolerance on micromirrors is a critical aspect of many high-power optical systems. Absorptive heating can negatively impact the performance of an optical system by altering the micromirrors curvature during operation. This can lead to shifts in the beam waist locations or imaging planes within a system. This paper describes a scheme to measure the impact of mirror heating by optical power and determine the power tolerances of micromirrors with gold and aluminum coatings using a 532-nm laser. Results are compared with an analytical model of thermally induced stress and optical absorptive heating. Experimental data shows that gold-coated mirrors are able to handle 40 mW of optical power with a beam waist displacement of less than 20% of the output Rayleigh length, while aluminum-coated mirrors can tolerate 125 mW. Measured data along with modeling suggest that, with proper metal coating, optical powers greater than 1 W should not adversely affect the system performance.

Scattering of surface plasmon polaritons at a planar interface by an embedded dielectric nanocube

We investigate scattering of surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) at a planar metal-dielectric interface by a dielectric nanocube embedded in the metal layer using finite element method-based simulations. The scattering characteristics of the embedded nanocube, such as the scattering and absorption cross sections, far-field scattering patterns, reflectance, and transmittance, are calculated as functions of the wavelength of the incident SPP waves in the visible range. The main features of the characteristics are explained in connection with the excitation of plasmonic eigenmodes of the embedded nanocube. The most efficient scattering into waves propagating away from the metal surface, i.e., the radiating modes, occurs when a dipolar-like plasmonic mode is excited, whose eigenfrequency can be tuned by changing the edge length of the nanocube.

Integrated optics technology for quantum information processing in atomic systems

Scalable quantum information processing in ion traps or neutral atoms requires highly integrated and functional optical systems for qubit manipulation and detection. We discuss and demonstrate integrated optics technologies that are relevant for this application.

Design and Characterization of MEMS Micromirrors for Ion Trap Quantum Computation

To build a large-scale quantum information processor (QIP) based on trapped ions or neutral atoms, integrated optical systems capable of delivering laser beams to multiple target locations are necessary. We consider a beam-shifting element consisting of a tilting micromirror located at the focal point of a lens, as a fundamental building block for such a system. We explore the design space of the micromirrors and characterize their dc, frequency, and transient responses. The fastest mirror features the resonant frequency of 113 kHz and the 98% settling time of 11 mus. The design tradeoffs are discussed to facilitate further optimization of the mirror performance for this application