Patent ID: 7075698
Filing Date: 2006-07-11
Classification: G01J,G02F

Abstract:
1. A wave front sensing device for detecting irregularities in a progressing wave front directed through it, the device comprising: acousto-optic medium; at least one acoustic wave generator coupled to the acousto-optic medium for imparting acoustic waves into the acousto-optic medium, wherein the acoustic waves characteristics are modifiable; optical elements for directing and focusing the wave front passing through said acousto-optic medium onto a detector; a collimation device for collimating radiation through the acousto-optic medium whereby when the wave front passes through said acousto-optical medium substantially perpendicular to the acoustic wave, a comb of detectable caustics in a generally ordered pattern is formed, allowing detection of irregularities in the wave front represented as deviations from the generally ordered form caustics.