Piezoelectric deformable mirror based on monolithic PVDF membranes

Abstract

Deformable mirrors using polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes in a bimorph configuration have been previously investigated. Kratos Defense and Security Solutions, in partnership with Advanced Optical Systems, Inc. and NeXolve, Inc., have been evaluating the utility of unimorph PVDF films for fabrication of deformable mirrors. Actuation using a unimorph film is achieved by creating a gradient in the piezoelectric response of the film through a proprietary process. This eliminates the requirement to bond multiple films and improves the optical quality of the films. To assist in the development and design of the films, a multiphysics design tool has been developed by tightly integrating several commercial software packages. This tool has then been used to model the performance of the films and extract significant material parameters. This paper reports on the initial modeling results and characterization of this novel material.