Lockheed Martin Corporation

The Penn State Research Foundation

Corey L Bungay

Clara Rivero Baleine

Theresa S Mayer

Jeffrey Linn Ruckman

Stephen R Tuenge

Andrew Swisher

Erwan A P Baleine

Christopher B Fleagle

Disclosed are optical systems that vary the refractive index of at least one relatively angled transmissive surface to reduce reflections. Embodiments include at least one optical component with relatively angled surface portions that are transmissive to electromagnetic radiation (EMR). In certain embodiments, an electrically conductive layer reflective to EMR and an anti-reflective coating are proximate the optical component. The anti-reflective coating includes a gradient-index (GRIN) layer with an index of refraction that varies across a length to increase propagation of EMR at a predetermined angle of incidence to prevent reflection of the EMR between the angled transmissive surfaces.

Reduction of reflections through relatively angled transmissive surfaces and gradient-index layer

Mechanisms for customizing a refractive index of an optical component are disclosed. In one example, sub-wavelength openings are formed in a top layer of anti-reflective (AR) material of an optical component to tailor transmission characteristics of the AR material over a range of angles of incidence and a range of wavelengths. In another example, sub-wavelength openings are formed at different filling fractions in the surface of the optical component.

Customizing the refractive index of a surface

Customizing the refractive index of a surface using two dimensional pattern of subwavelength openings

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Ocoee, FL, United States of America

Corey L Bungay