changing optics on DLP LightCrafter

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Posted by Daniel Hochbaum

on Aug 21 2012 15:23 PM

Hi,

I'd like to replace the LEDs and lenses of the lightcrafter with custom optics based around a low-power laser. Is it possible to remove these components without having to mechanically break anything? I am comfortable with the optical and electrical design, but I am concerned whether there are interlocks or pieces of plastic welded in place that will make this tricky. Thanks!

Daniel

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Posted by Divya

on Jan 26 2012 00:09 AM

Expert3680 points

Hi Daniel,

The optics of the LightCrafter can be replaced. I will upload an image of the LightCrafter with these components removed, and highlight the mechanical parts to be taken care of ASAP. Can you please mention the wavelength of the low-power laser you intend to use. Also, it would be helpful to know the end application.

Thanks & Regards,

Divya

www.ti.com/mems

Posted by Daniel Hochbaum

on Jan 26 2012 13:55 PM

Prodigy120 points

Hi Divya,

I plan on using a 488 nm diode laser which will reflect off the DMD and be imaged at the sample plane of an inverted fluorescence microscope for dynamic patterned illumination. How do you overcome the interlock after removing the LEDs? I assume you need to tie some pin from the MSP430 to high voltage/ground? Is there a schematic available? Thanks

Daniel

Posted by PedroGelabert

on Jan 30 2012 16:58 PM

Verified Answer

Verified by Daniel Hochbaum

Intellectual1980 points

Daniel,

The light engine can be removed. Be careful, damage to the engine is not covered by warranty. Disconnecting the LED ribbon cable will power down the LED driver and the system will still work fine. We are in the process to upload the schematics and will take a few extra days.

To remove the light engine follow this procedure:

remove the system board (top board) by removing the four screws in the corner posts.
remove the three screws from the top of the light engine, you will need a Phillips P00 screwdriver
remove the four screws on the bottom thermal plate holding the LED heat sinks
remove the ribbon cables from the driver board (bottom board). Just pull-up the plastic tab and pull-up the ribbon cable. Be careful, these ribbons are fragile and easy to break while pulling.
remove the two little back screws on the board holding the DMD to the light engine. This is the vertical standing board connected to the driver board
Gently pull out the light engine. The light engine lies on the support posts, so it needs to be raised a little and gently pulled. The connector of the DMD is in the socket.
Remove the DMD by removing the two P00 screws on the light Engine
Remove the metal plate and carefully remove the DMD. You can mount the DMD on the socket back on the board. Note the notches on the DMD for proper orientation when placing it back on the connector. The large square notch on the package is on the left, while the triangular notch is on the right.

I have re-arranged the boards around to have the DMD without the thermal plate sticking out.

Best regards,

Pedro

Posted by Daniel Hochbaum

on Jan 30 2012 19:58 PM

Prodigy120 points

Thanks!

Posted by PedroGelabert

on Jan 31 2012 09:04 AM

Intellectual1980 points

It might be easier for some to remove the post on the driver board before disconnecting the light engine. With the post removed, you can lift the driver board and light engine. Then disconnect the light engine from the driver board.

Posted by Joel Kubby

on Aug 21 2012 15:23 PM

Prodigy10 points

Hi Daniel,

We are trying to do what you have done for structured illumination. How did this work out for you? What source did you use for the 488 nm light? We looked for LED's but could only find 470 nm. Thanks for any information you can provide.

Best,

Joel