Systems, methods, and devices for handling terahertz radiation
First Claim
1. A method for controlling the polarization of an optical signal comprising:
- passing a first non-linearly-polarized optical signal having a first polarization ellipticity through a polarization varying device to produce a second non-linearly-polarized optical signal having a second polarization ellipticity greater than the first polarization ellipticity;
characterizing the second polarization ellipticity of the second non-linearly-polarized optical signal; and
controlling the orientation of the polarization varying device to maintain a predetermined characterization of the polarization ellipticity of the second polarization ellipticity of the second non-linearly-polarized optical signal.
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Abstract
Methods and apparatus for detecting variations in electromagnetic fields, in particular, terahertz (THz) electromagnetic fields, are provided. The methods and apparatus employ polarization detection devices and controllers to maintain or vary the polarization of modulated signals as desired. The methods and apparatus are provided to characterize electromagnetic fields by directing the electromagnetic field and a probe beam upon an electro-crystal and detecting the modulation of the resulting probe beam. Detection of the modulation of the probe beam is practiced by detecting and comparing the polarization components of the modulated probe beam. Aspects of the invention may be used to analyze or detect explosives, explosive related compounds, and pharmaceuticals, among other substances. A compact apparatus, modular optical devices for use with the apparatus, sample holders, and radiation source mounts are also disclosed.
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Citations
20 Claims
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1. A method for controlling the polarization of an optical signal comprising:
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passing a first non-linearly-polarized optical signal having a first polarization ellipticity through a polarization varying device to produce a second non-linearly-polarized optical signal having a second polarization ellipticity greater than the first polarization ellipticity; characterizing the second polarization ellipticity of the second non-linearly-polarized optical signal; and controlling the orientation of the polarization varying device to maintain a predetermined characterization of the polarization ellipticity of the second polarization ellipticity of the second non-linearly-polarized optical signal. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
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11. An apparatus for controlling the polarization of an optical signal comprising:
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a polarization varying device to change a first non-linearly polarized optical signal having a first polarization ellipticity passed therethrough to a second non-linearly polarized optical signal having a second polarization ellipticity, greater than the first polarization ellipticity; means for characterizing the second polarization ellipticity of the second non-linearly polarized optical signal; and means for controlling the orientation of the polarization varying device to maintain a predetermined characterization of polarization ellipticity for the second polarization ellipticity of the second non-linearly polarized optical signal. - View Dependent Claims (12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20)
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Specification