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Optical Limiters: Spatial, Temporal, and Bio-Optical Effects

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  10 February 2011

R C Hollins,
K J McEwan,
S J Till,
D J Lund and
J A Zuclich
R C Hollins
Affiliation:
Defence Evaluation & Research Agency, St Andrews Road, Malvem, Worcester, WR14 3PS, United Kingdom, rchollins@dera.gov.uk
K J McEwan
Affiliation:
Defence Evaluation & Research Agency, St Andrews Road, Malvem, Worcester, WR14 3PS, United Kingdom, rchollins@dera.gov.uk
S J Till
Affiliation:
Defence Evaluation & Research Agency, St Andrews Road, Malvem, Worcester, WR14 3PS, United Kingdom, rchollins@dera.gov.uk
D J Lund
Affiliation:
Brooks Air Force Base, Texas, USA
J A Zuclich
Affiliation:
Brooks Air Force Base, Texas, USA
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Abstract

This paper examines the goals which a nonlinear limiter must achieve in order to protect an eye against injury by a pulsed laser. The shape and temporal structure of the image presented to the retina are discussed. New bio-optical data describing retinal injury thresholds for largeimage sources are used to estimate the ocular hazard. The issues and trade-offs surrounding the incorporation of a limiter into an optical system are examined, and the suitability of different materials for an effective low-loss limiter are compared.

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References

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