Stephen wrote:Yes, Roland, see my proposal for an optical fibre scanning element at http://www.taswegian.com/NBTV/images/OFSS.pdf . Referring to Figures 1 and 2, you would simply replace the modulated light source 4 (or photoelectric sensor) as shown with the end of the transmission fibre.
Thanks for that - in fact - now I look at it again I wonder if fig 4 might be the best bet. My first batch of fibre optic arrived today and this is the 1mm fibre bundle in a 2mm sheath.
As I suspected its too thick to mount on a Nipkow style disk - but I think it would work quite well in a drum configuration with protruding fibres. Its rigid enough so that centripetal would not be required to make the fibres extend.
I was also thinking of making the drum hub quite large in relation to the length of the fibres to allow plenty of room for the transmission fibre(s).
I think I need to do some drawings to figure at how best to build it. I don't have the facilities or the skill to cope with accurate machining - and I'm not a 'completer/finisher' so I try to avoid projects which require large amounts of work before any results are forthcoming.
Stephen wrote:I am glad that you are working on this. I wish that I had the time to do so.
Don't worry - I don't have time either I'm also trying to put the finishing touches to my 8" paper disk monitor as well as completing my 12" club disk version. Tonight rather than do anything useful I spent ages trying to think of an easy design for making the hub of a fibre optic 'drum'! (but it is fun )
Roland.