The core engine of an SLS/SLM AM printer is the Optical Scanner. Typically, either a galvanometer (GS) or a Polygonal Mirror (PM) scanner has been used, but both have been pushed to their mechanical limits. Both scanners suffer from inconsistency in energy deposition because of changes in Optical Path Length (OPL), Surface Beam Speed (SBS), and angle of incidence(Θ).
The Øgon Lens Free Optical Scanner (patented by Tecnica, Inc., Great Neck, New York), on the other hand, provides a simple scanning method, linear transfer functions, fixed OPL, and an incident beam normal to the work surface. This paper describes the optics of the Øgon and compares it head to head with the GS. The study shows the Øgon delivers a linear transfer function, where the optical path length, surface beam speed, and Θ, the angle of incidence (and therefore the beam size and shape) are constant.