Environmental Research Institute of Michigan

Nickolas P Vlannes

Nikola Stevan Subotic

Carl C Aleksoff

The invention is a method for obtaining fringe visibility in hybrid-optical interferometric processors. Encoded data defining an image is utilized to provide both a timing input signal and a method of modulating a light source in synchronization with the modulation of an optical-acoustical element. The modulated light is then detected in a receptor array and converted into signals suitable for driving a readable, visual-imaging device or other devices for image analysis.

Method of fringe-freezing of images in hybrid-optical interferometric

A method of manufacturing surface relief patterns of variable depth in solid materials is disclosed, which patterns, when seen in cross-section, are of variable geometry. After determining the properties of the desired surface relief pattern and of the material to be etched, the steps used in the method include: depositing a layer of measured thickness of photoresist material on the surface of the material to be etched; applying a selected amount of radiation to specific areas on the photoresist, thereby sensitizing the photoresist, so that the amount of radiation on the photoresist is a function of the depth of the desired surface relief pattern in the solid material at that point; chemically developing the photoresist material to remove the sensitized material in proportion to the exposure which it has received; and finally, etching the combined photoresist and substrate through reactive ion etching until portions of the photoresist material have been removed, thereby leaving the desired pattern etched in the substrate. As an additional step, the etched substrate may be coated with a metallic film with protective and optically desirable properties.

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Troy, NY, United States of America

Nickolas P Vlannes