Optical Shutters

LF Series

Maximum open state transmission designed for large format applications

Available in rectangular form factor, the LF Series Optical Shutters offer the maximum open state transmission for large format applications.

Designed for large format applications requiring the maximum open state transmission, the LF Series of Optical Shutters provides a cost-effective solution for applications requiring throughput optimization. This unique LF Optical Shutter design enables up to 80% open state transmittance across the visible wavelength range. Drive voltage requirements range from ± 60 to ± 100 V ac. Large aperture sizes (up to 150 mm) are easily accommodated with the LF Series. Broad thermal performance is also characteristic of the LF Series Optical Shutters.

An Optical Shutter is a two-state device used to rapidly open and close a light path (from lens to film, for example). Optical Shutters are typically used to control the amount of time that a light-sensitive material is exposed to optical radiation.

Boulder Nonlinear Systems (BNS) manufactures and sells liquid crystal based Optical Shutters for applications requiring active timing control of beam transmittance. Key features of our Optical Shutters include high-speed binary operation, maximum open state transmittance, and high extinction ratio performance. Since these devices are solid state - undesirable mechanical motion, associated noise, and vibration problems are eliminated.

Device Construction

Manufacture of LF Series Optical Shutters follows greatly simplified design and construction. Production and assembly of LF Series Optical Shutters starts with cost-effective, sheet glass substrates. External window surfaces are antireflection coated across the visible wavelength range. Internal surfaces include a transparent-conductive layer, typically indium-tin oxide (ITO).

The LF Series eliminates two common Optical Shutter production process steps, greatly simplifying their manufacture and reducing production costs. No polymer alignment layers are required, avoiding size limitations inherent in the buffing process.

Maximum open state transmission is achieved with a novel Optical Shutter design that eliminates the need for linear polarizers, their careful alignment demands, and associated expense. This simplified device design enables large area Optical Shutter requirements to be addressed with an economical solution. LF Series Optical Shutters have an appearance similar to frosted or ground glass in the power off (zero volt) condition. Always keep in mind that the LF Series Optical Shutters require relatively high drive voltage levels for maximum transmittance and optimum extinction ratio performance.