Automatic Beam Blocker

thingiverse

A motorized block (MB), also known as "beam shutter", is a device used to block or unblock a light beam while keeping the source power on. I present a method for implementing an extremely affordable and simple Automated Motorized Blocker (AMB) that can be used to block a low-power laser beam. The motorized blocker consists of a shutter that opens or closes by pressing a push button connected to an Arduino Uno board. Materials include: 3D printed motorized blocker (STL files available on the Thingiverse repository), servo motor (Tower Pro SG90 9G Mini servo), push-button, 1 Kohm resistor, connection cables, Arduino UNO board, and Implementation To assemble the motorized blocker, first download and print the files automatic_motorized_blocker_1of2.STL and automatic_motorized_blocker_2of2.STL. Next, mount the pieces according to the figure. The Automated Motorized Blocker requires a 1/2" optical post to be mounted on any experiment. However, notice that the component is compatible with Thorlabs cage system. I also provide a SCAD file (automatic_motorized_blocker.SCAD) allowing users to change different parameters in order to make the AMB compatible with cage systems from other manufacturers. For more information on circuit implementation and Arduino code, visit my blog dedicated to the Automated Motorized Blocker. Once the motorized blocker is assembled, mount the circuit, upload file motorized_blocker.ino in the Arduino UNO, and start using the Automated Motorized Blocker in your experiment!