Galvos

Galvos, short for galvanometers, are essential components in many optical systems. They are electromechanical devices used to steer beams of light, typically lasers, with high precision and speed. A galvanometer consists of a mirror attached to a shaft that is rotated by a motor. As the motor's current changes, the shaft and mirror move, directing the light beam along a desired path.

The primary application of galvos is in scanning systems. By rapidly moving the mirror back and forth, a laser beam can be used to draw images, mark materials, or perform measurements. This makes them crucial in fields such as laser cutting and engraving, 3D printing, medical diagnostics (like optical coherence tomography), and telecommunications.

Galvos are characterized by their speed, accuracy, and repeatability. High-performance galvos can achieve scanning speeds of tens of thousands of degrees per second with exceptional positional accuracy. They operate by converting electrical signals into precise mechanical movements. The mirror's angle is directly proportional to the input current, allowing for precise control of the light beam's trajectory. Different types of galvos exist, including closed-loop and open-loop systems, with closed-loop systems offering superior accuracy due to their feedback mechanisms.