Exploring closed-loop feedback control using experiments in optics

TL;DR

This paper presents two educational experiments demonstrating closed-loop feedback control in optics, helping students learn about laser stabilization and interferometry in advanced laboratory courses.

Contribution

It introduces practical, hands-on experiments for teaching closed-loop feedback control in optics, suitable for undergraduate electronics and optics labs.

Findings

Students successfully control laser pointing angle.

Students stabilize Michelson interferometer pathlengths.

Experiments enhance understanding of feedback control principles.

Abstract

We present two experiments in closed-loop feedback control. In the first experiment, students control the pointing angle of a laser to "lock" the laser onto a "target." In the second, students stabilize the pathlength difference in two arms of a Michelson interferometer. These experiments are appropriate for electronics and optics laboratory classes for junior and senior level students.