Efficient and flexible laser beam scanners constructed from volume holograms

We combine the scan flexibility of computer-generated holographic laser beam scanners with the high diffraction efficiency of volume phase holograms to produce a new type of “holo-scanner”. The scanner-hologram consists of numerous, small, volume hologram facets recorded in dichromated gelatin films and produces an arbitrary output pattern with greater than 90% light efficiency. Experimental results from discrete point, continuous line, and 3-D scanners are shown. Multi-wavelength scanners are also considered. This paper is based on the concepts presented in the preceding paper on “computer-interferometric holograms used for laser beam scanners”.