Graded period rugates

Grading the refractive index period of a rugate is a technique for depositing broad band reflectors using rugate technology. The principle advantage of this technique is the ability to deposit long and short pass reflectors in parallel with other rugate spectral features and thus generate complex performance in a single optical film. Variation of the amplitude of the index profile as the period is changed allows for good edge definition for long or short pass designs. Several of these devices were fabricated and measured performance is presented. These devices demonstrate rugate properties of harmonic suppression and superposition with other rugate structures.