Dynamic Particle Rejection on Optical Lenses Using Piezoelectric Elements

Abstract

In the present investigation, the potential for removing undesirable particles from optical surfaces remotely has been explored. The primary target for this research is in surveillance cameras, satellite lenses, planetary rover optical lenses and other space based optical systems. The mechanism for removing these particles is dynamic vibrations of the optical lens wherein natural modes are excited which results in accelerations on the lens surface that are sufficiently high to reject the particle. A method using a combination of blowing air and dynamic vibrations was also investigated.