Reflection techniques of continuous laser beam deflection — A comprehensive overview.

This article provides an updated review of advances in the field of mirror-based laser beam deflectors, including laser scanners. We propose a taxonomy of these techniques based mainly on the principle of operation, and we direct the reader to the literature related to the individual subgroups of deflectors and to some of the most representative examples. This review is limited to the continuous or quasi-continuous mode of operation. The following techniques for steering mirror deflection are distinguished: electromagnetic, piezo, electrothermal, electrostatic and pressure actuators. Electromagnetic voice coils and piezo deflectors form one subgroup of fast steering mirror techniques. The main technical parameters and the useable properties of each group of techniques are specified. This review forms the first part of a general overview of laser beam deflectors, which will continue with a review of refractive and diffraction deflectors. [Display omitted] • The first part of a general overview of laser beam deflectors, which will next cover refractive and diffraction deflectors. • Actualised overview of advances in specular reflection by light laser beam deflectors, including laser scanners. • New approach and taxonomy of the presented techniques. • References to the earlier reviews of subgroups. • Main steering mirror techniques distinguished: electromagnetic, piezo, electrothermal, electrostatic and pressure actuators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]