A broad variety of techniques described in this book, as applied to a number of tasks in robotics, provide the reader with a feel for the potential of lasers and fiber optics in this area of increasing relevance. The many examples of devices and systems that are included here are of interest to the nonspecialist as well as to the researcher and industrial practitioner.

This new edition details the important features of beam shaping and exposes the subtleties of the theory and techniques that are best demonstrated through proven applications. New chapters cover illumination light shaping in optical lithography; optical micro-manipulation of live mammalian cells through trapping, sorting, and transfection; and laser beam shaping through fiber optic beam delivery. The book discusses applications in lithography, laser printing, optical data storage, stable isotope separation, and spatially dispersive lasers. It also provides a history of the field and includes extensive references.

Research into and development of high-precision systems, microelectromechanical systems, distributed sensors/actuators, smart structural systems, high-precision controls, etc. have drawn much attention in recent years. These new devices and systems will bring about a new technical revolution in modern industries and impact future human life. This book presents a unique overview of these technologies such as silicon based sensors/actuators and control piezoelectric micro sensors/actuators, micro actuation and control, micro sensor applications in robot control, optical fiber sensors/systems, etc. These are four essential subjects emphasized in the book: 1. Survey of the (current) research and development; 2. Fundamental theories and tools; 3. Practical applications. 4. Outlining future research and development.

This tutorial presents optomechanical modeling techniques to effectively design and analyze high-performance optical systems. It discusses thermal and structural modeling methods that use finite-element analysis to predict the integrity and performance of optical elements and optical support structures. Includes accompanying CD-ROM with examples.

Publishes papers reporting on research and development in optical science and engineering and the practical applications of known optical science, engineering, and technology.

The practical, popular 1995 tutorial has been thoroughly revised and updated, reflecting developments in technology and applications during the past decade. New chapters address wave aberrations, thermal effects, design examples, and diamond turning.

Annotation There is a maximum power and energy that you can put into or transmit through your optical system; in many cases, this maximum is well below the laser-induced damage threshold. This tutorial explains the factors and constraints that limit the power- and energy-handling capability of optical materials, components, and/or systems. Because the lasers coming off the production lines are much more stable, efficient, and controlled than in the past, today's engineers often do not have the insight into the technology as was required of first-generation laser engineers. However, important insights into the use and performance of the laser and optical systems can be lost unless we remind ourselves at periodic intervals of the problems our predecessors had to face.