Spatial and temporal thermal analysis of acousto-optic deflectors using finite element analysis model

Thermal effects greatly influence the optical properties of the acousto-optic deflectors (AODs). Thermal analysis plays an important role in modern AOD design. However, the lack of an effective method of analysis limits the prediction in the thermal performance. In this paper, we propose a finite element analysis model to analyze the thermal effects of a TeO2-based AOD. Both transducer heating and acoustic absorption are considered as thermal sources. The anisotropy of sound propagation is taken into account for determining the acoustic absorption. Based on this model, a transient thermal analysis is employed using ANSYS software. The spatial temperature distributions in the crystal and the temperature changes over time are acquired. The simulation results are validated by experimental results. The effect of heat source and heat convection on temperature distribution is discussed. This numerical model and analytical method of thermal analysis would be helpful in the thermal design and practical applications of AODs.

► A FEA model to analyze the thermal effects of AOD is proposed.
► Both transducer heating and acoustic absorption are included as thermal sources.
► The anisotropy of sound propagation is taken into account.
► The spatial and temporal thermal performances are analyzed.
► The method would be helpful in AOD’s thermal design and practical applications.