Prism Coupler

Introduction:

A prism coupler is an advanced optical measurement instrument primarily used to measure the refractive index and other optical properties of prisms. It is based on the phenomenon of total internal reflection and the refraction of light by prisms. When light travels from one medium to another, if the angle of incidence exceeds the critical angle, the light undergoes total internal reflection. The prism coupler utilizes this characteristic to couple light from one optical fiber to another, enabling the transmission of optical signals.

The working principle of the prism coupler is based on the interference of light, combining prism and interferometer technologies. It uses the unique shape of the prism to split incident light into beams traveling in different directions, which are then recombined by another prism to achieve light coherence or measure the polarization state of light. When light passes through two adjacent prisms, interference fringes are generated. The shape and distribution of these fringes depend on the difference in refractive indices between the two prisms. By comparing the prism under test with a standard prism of known refractive index, the refractive index of the test prism can be determined.

Prism couplers are widely used in optical processing, precision measurement, surface defect inspection, and other fields, such as scientific research, industrial production, and eyeglass manufacturing. They offer advantages such as high precision, flexibility, applicability to various optical media, ease of operation, and a broad range of applications, making them indispensable tools in optical measurement.

Equipment Specifications:

1. Refractive index measurement range: 1.00–3.3

2. Refractive index accuracy: ±0.0002

3. Refractive index resolution: ±0.0001 (high-resolution turntable)

4. Thickness accuracy: ±(0.5% + 50 Å)

5. Thickness resolution: ±0.3%

6. Measurement time: 20–75 s

7. Wavelengths: 532 nm, 635 nm, 1064 nm, 1310 nm, 1550 nm

8. Direct air coupling measurement, no coupling fluid required