Health Monitoring of Adaptive Optics Deformable Mirrors with Unknown Dynamics

Deformable mirrors are critical components in adaptive optics systems, particularly for high-precision applications. However, due to their complex and highly dynamic behavior, it remains challenging to develop accurate mathematical models for deformable mirrors. Additionally, deformable mirrors are prone to faults, such as material fatigue and sensor failures, making it essential to implement a robust health monitoring system capable of detecting faults in real time. This paper proposes a model-free health monitoring algorithm for deformable mirrors. The algorithm leverages transmissibility operators—mathematical models that describe the relationship between a system’s outputs. By using measurements from sensors attached to the deformable mirror, we construct transmissibility relationships under healthy operating conditions. These relationships are then used, along with real-time sensor data, to generate virtual sensor measurements. The discrepancy between actual and virtual measurements serves as an indicator of potential faults. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm, we apply it to a deformable mirror model simulated using COMSOL Multiphysics, incorporating scenarios involving microcracks and sensor failures.