This thesis project studies a membrane-in-the-middle setup for optomechanics experiments with the goal of improving its stability. A strong focus is laid on the redesign of the cavity as well as a...Show moreThis thesis project studies a membrane-in-the-middle setup for optomechanics experiments with the goal of improving its stability. A strong focus is laid on the redesign of the cavity as well as a mechanically robust sample positioning system, as this was the limiting factor in the existing setup. Finite element analysis is used to assure the mechanical stability of the new design. Furthermore, the challenges of the Pound-Drever-Hall locking technique are better understood by characterizing the cavity locking on both the old and new setup in comparison. Besides separately investigating the electronic components involved and the impact of electronic filtering, gain-phase-measurements reveal information about their behavior in a closed feedback loop. The stability of the lock is closely linked to the mechanical stability of the setup. Especially vibrations coupling into the optical system via the chip holder with the membrane can be strong enough to cause instability of the feedback loop. Therefore a clever design is needed where their impact can be minimized.Show less
