Risley Prism Beam Steering

The Risley Prism is a high resolution beam steering device consisting of a pair of rotatable wedged elements that redirect the laser beam by refraction. The refracting angle of each wedge is typically less than 5 degrees. By rotating each wedge independently the laser beam can be steered to any position within a solid angle defined by the maximum deflection.

Risley Prism Beam Steering

The Model 12-2001 and 12-2002 Risley Prism Beam Steering Assemblies utilize two single element fused silica wedges mounted in a housing that allows independent, manual rotation of each wedge. If both prisms are rotated in equal but opposite directions, the beam is deflected along a single axis. The independent rotation of each wedge allows the positioning of the beam anywhere within a solid angle defined by the maximum deflection. The transmitted wavefront deformation is < 1/10 wave over the 15 mm aperture. A set of indexed drum dials provide a direct angular readout for each wedge.

Please replace λ in model number with working wavelength when ordering.

Achromatic Risley Prism

The Model 12-3015 Achromatic Risley Prism Beam Steering assembly is for applications requiring the deflection of multiple laser lines. This prism utilizes two pairs of prisms, each pair consisting of one high dispersion glass wedge and one low dispersion glass wedge. Each pair is air-spaced to maintain a high resistance to laser damage.

Please replace λ in model number with working wavelength when ordering.

Single Axis Risley Prism

To obtain single axis deflection it is necessary to simultaneously rotate the prisms in opposite directions and through identical angles. A single shaft rotation mechanism on the Model 12-1040 Risley Prism coordinates both rotations achieving single axis deflection with zero backlash. Stacking two prism assemblies can give independent deflection in both the X and Y directions. The manually operated adjustment shaft is easily accessible for motor driven applications.

Please replace λ in model number with working wavelength when ordering.

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