Photodetector array on curved substrate

摘要

In some applications, it may be desirable to position multiple photodetectors at precise locations on a curved focal surface defined by an optical system. To achieve this positioning, the photodetectors may be mounted at desired locations on a flexible substrate that is in a flat configuration. The flexible substrate with mounted photodetectors can then be shaped to substantially conform to the shape of the curved focal surface. This shaping can be accomplished by clamping the flexible substrate between at least two clamping pieces. The curved flexible substrate clamped between the at least two clamping pieces can be positioned relative to the optical system such that the photodetectors are positioned at desired three-dimensional locations on the curved focal surface.

主权项

1. An apparatus, comprising:
an optical system, wherein the optical system defines a focal surface having a curved shape; a flexible substrate; a plurality of photodetectors mounted on the flexible substrate; and a clamp comprising at least a first clamping piece and a second clamping piece, wherein the first clamping piece has a convex surface that corresponds to the curved shape of the focal surface, wherein the second clamping piece has a concave surface that corresponds to the curved shape of the curved focal surface, and wherein the clamp is configured to hold the flexible substrate between the first and second clamping pieces such that the flexible substrate substantially conforms to the curved shape of the focal surface and each of the photodetectors in the plurality of photodetectors is at a respective location on the focal surface.