Abstract

Thin film optical devices are expected to play an increasingly more important role in the evolution of optical and optoelectronic technologies during the next decade. New applications are expected to emphasise a significant stretching of the performance levels currently achievable in coating production, while the continual search for cost reduction will drive the need for more efficient material deposition processes, as well as the exploitation of more effective optical designs. The scale of such devices will range from the sub-micron domain of the optoelectronic device to the metre-plus scale of the aircraft canopy or the architectural "designer" window. In many cases, there will also be spin-off into or from other areas, particularly those involving wear-resistant coatings for machine tool or decorative applications. Lastly, requirements for optical signal processing, displays and "smart" windows will drive increasing emphasis towards the incoporation of active materials into multilayer designs, forming the cornerstone of a wide range of new products.

© 1992 Optical Society of America