Laser pulse shaping device, laser apparatus, and laser pulse shaping method

Abstract

The application relates to the technical field of laser processing, and particularly provides a laser pulse shaping device, a laser device and a laser pulse shaping method.The device comprises a first connecting piece, a second connecting piece and a light blocking piece; the first connecting piece is configured to connect a pre-amplification device and output first light; the first light comprises first laser pulses and continuous light; the second connecting piece is arranged at intervals from the first connecting piece; the second connecting piece is configured to connect a main amplification device and input second laser pulses to the main amplification device; the pulse width of the second laser pulses is smaller than that of the first laser pulses; the light blocking piece is arranged between the first connecting piece and the second connecting piece; the light blocking piece is provided with a light blocking part, the light blocking piece can rotate at a target frequency and a target time delay relative to the first light, the light blocking part blocks the continuous light and shapes the first laser pulses to obtain the second laser pulses. The application shapes and blocks the continuous light of the laser through the light blocking piece, effectively improves the peak power, and improves the processing quality and efficiency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of laser processing, and in particular to laser pulse shaping devices, laser equipment, and laser pulse shaping methods. Background Technology

[0002] In the field of glass processing, the peak power requirement for laser cutting is extremely high. The continuous light component within the laser pulse interval is one of the key factors limiting the peak power of the laser.

[0003] Taking existing nanosecond pulsed lasers as an example, they often combine pre-amplification optical paths and main-amplification optical paths. By controlling the length of the active fiber in the pre-amplification optical path, the signal-to-noise ratio is reduced, and the proportion of laser components such as amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) is decreased, thereby increasing the peak power of the laser.

[0004] However, this method cannot completely eliminate continuous light within the laser pulse interval, resulting in limited improvement in laser peak power. Consequently, existing laser peak power cannot meet increasingly stringent glass processing requirements, leading to poor processing quality and low efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The laser pulse shaping device, laser equipment, and laser pulse shaping method provided in this invention at least solve the problem of low peak power of conventional lasers, which leads to poor processing quality and low efficiency. By setting up a light-blocking component to shape the laser pulse, the peak power of the laser is effectively improved, thereby improving processing quality and efficiency.

[0006] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a laser pulse shaping device, comprising a first connector configured to connect to a pre-amplification device and output a first light; wherein the first light includes a first laser pulse and continuous light; a second connector spaced apart from the first connector; the second connector configured to connect to a main amplification device and input a second laser pulse to the main amplification device; wherein the pulse width of the second laser pulse is smaller than the pulse width of the first laser pulse; and a light-blocking component disposed between the first connector and the second connector; the light-blocking component is provided with a light-blocking portion, and the light-blocking component is configured to maintain a target frequency and target delay relative to the first light through rotation, so as to block the continuous light through the light-blocking portion and shape the first laser pulse to obtain the second laser pulse.

[0007] In one embodiment of the present invention, two light-blocking elements are provided, and the two light-blocking elements are arranged sequentially along a first direction; the light-blocking portions of the two light-blocking elements are staggered along the rotation direction of the light-blocking elements; wherein, the first direction is parallel to the arrangement direction of the first connector and the second connector.

[0008] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the light-blocking elements is configured to be rotatable relative to the other light-blocking element to adjust the pulse width range of the light-blocking portion.

[0009] In one embodiment of the invention, along the first direction, at least one of the light-blocking elements is configured to be movable relative to the other light-blocking element.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present invention, the light-blocking component is further provided with a light-transmitting part, which is configured as a light-transmitting hole or an attenuation component.

[0011] In one embodiment of the present invention, the light-transmitting portion includes two shaping sides; the two shaping sides are arranged alternately along the rotation direction of the light-blocking member; and the spacing between the two shaping sides in the rotation direction of the light-blocking member gradually decreases along the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the light-blocking member.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, the light-blocking element is configured to be movable relative to the first connector and the second connector in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the light-blocking element, or / and the first connector and the second connector are configured to be movable relative to the light-blocking element.

[0013] In one embodiment of the present invention, the light-transmitting portion and the light-blocking portion of the light-blocking member are provided in multiples; along the rotation direction of the light-blocking member, the multiple light-transmitting portions and the multiple light-blocking portions are arranged alternately in sequence.

[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, it further includes: a rotation drive member disposed between the first connector and the second connector; the drive end of the rotation drive member is connected to the light-blocking member to drive the light-blocking member to rotate; the rotation speed of the rotation drive member is configured to be adjustable to adjust the magnitude of the target frequency.

[0015] In one embodiment of the invention, the device further includes: a controller electrically connected to the rotation drive; the controller being configured to transmit a first control signal and a second control signal; the rotation drive being configured to, upon receiving the first control signal, cause the light-blocking portion of the light-blocking member to be disposed between the first connector and the second connector to block the first light; and, upon receiving the second control signal, cause the light-blocking member to rotate relative to the first light at the target frequency and the target delay.

[0016] In one embodiment of the present invention, the first connector includes a first collimator and a first optical fiber, the first optical fiber being connected to the first collimator and configured to connect to the pre-amplification device; the second connector includes a second collimator and a second optical fiber, the light-blocking element being disposed between the first collimator and the second collimator; the second optical fiber is connected to the second collimator and configured to connect to the main amplification device.

[0017] In one embodiment of the present invention, it further includes: a packaging housing; the first collimator, the light-blocking element and the second collimator are all disposed within the packaging housing, and the first collimator and the second collimator are both connected to the packaging housing.

[0018] Secondly, the present invention also provides a laser device, including a pre-amplification device, a main amplification device, and a laser pulse shaping device as described in any one of the above.

[0019] Thirdly, the present invention also provides a laser pulse shaping method, applied to a laser device as described in any one of the above claims, comprising the steps of: activating a pre-amplification device in response to a third control signal, so that a first connector connected to the pre-amplification device outputs a first light; wherein the first light includes a first laser pulse and continuous light; a second connector is spaced apart from the first connector, and the second connector is connected to a main amplification device; a light-blocking component is disposed between the first connector and the second connector, the light-blocking component having a light-blocking portion; controlling the rotation of the light-blocking component relative to the first light at a target frequency and a target delay in response to a second control signal, so as to block the continuous light through the light-blocking portion and shape the first laser pulse to obtain a second laser pulse; wherein the pulse width of the second laser pulse is smaller than the pulse width of the first laser pulse; and inputting the second laser pulse to the main amplification device through the second connector.

[0020] In one embodiment of the present invention, before activating the pre-amplification device in response to a third control signal to cause the first connector connected to the pre-amplification device to output first light, the method further includes the step of: in response to a first control signal, controlling the light-blocking portion of the light-blocking member to be disposed between the first connector and the second connector to block the first light.

[0021] Compared with the prior art, the above-described technical solution of the present invention has the following advantages:

[0022] The laser pulse shaping device, laser equipment, and laser pulse shaping method described in this invention utilize a rotating light-blocking component that maintains the target frequency and target delay relative to the first light beam. The light-blocking portion of the component blocks continuous light within the first beam, simultaneously shaping the first laser pulse to obtain a second laser pulse. Firstly, adjusting the laser pulse width effectively increases the final peak power. Simultaneously, blocking the continuous light prevents premature energy consumption, further enhancing the final peak power, enabling the output laser to perform high-quality, efficient glass processing. Secondly, the rotating light-blocking component facilitates heat dissipation, offers high fault tolerance, and has strong laser energy handling capability. Finally, the light-blocking component is low-cost, small in size, easy to maintain, and compatible with lasers of different spot diameters. Attached Figure Description

[0023] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and form part of this invention, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention and are used to explain the invention, but do not constitute an undue limitation of the invention. In the drawings:

[0024] Figure 1 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the laser pulse shaping device in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 2 This is one of the structural schematic diagrams of the light-blocking element in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the laser pulse shaping result in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 4 This is the second schematic diagram of the laser pulse shaping device in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 5 This is the second schematic diagram of the structure of the light-blocking element in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 6 This is the third schematic diagram of the structure of the light-blocking element in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 7 This is one of the schematic diagrams of the movable adjustment structure of the laser pulse shaping device in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 8 This is the second schematic diagram of the moving adjustment structure of the laser pulse shaping device in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 9 This is the fourth schematic diagram of the structure of the light-blocking element in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 10This is a schematic diagram of the laser pulse amplitude enhancement result in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the laser device in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 12 This is a schematic flowchart of the laser pulse shaping method in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] The above-mentioned figures include the following reference numerals: D1, first direction; 10, first connector; 11, first collimator; 12, first optical fiber; 20, second connector; 21, second collimator; 22, second optical fiber; 30, light blocking component; 31, light blocking part; 32, light-passing hole; 321, first shaping side; 33, attenuation component; 331, second shaping side; 40, rotation drive component; 50, controller; 60, packaging housing; 70, pre-amplification device; 80, main amplification device. Detailed Implementation

[0037] It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in the present invention can be combined with each other. The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0038] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of exemplary embodiments according to the invention. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0039] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention. It should also be understood that, for ease of description, the dimensions of the various parts shown in the drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Techniques, methods, and devices known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and devices should be considered part of the specification. In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures denote similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it need not be further discussed in subsequent figures.

[0040] It should be noted that after the particles in the laser medium are excited, they are in a high-energy state, but these particles do not remain at a high energy level indefinitely. Some of these particles will jump back to a low energy level and release photons, i.e., spontaneous emission. These photons are then amplified by a laser amplifier to form spontaneously emitted amplified light (ASE light).

[0041] Spontaneous emission amplified light is continuous. Regardless of whether the laser outputs pulses, as long as the pump is providing energy, spontaneous emission amplified light will continue to be generated and consume energy.

[0042] Pulsed lasers concentrate their energy, meaning most of the energy is released within an extremely short pulse duration. Peak power = energy / pulse width. For example, a 1ns pulse concentrates its energy into 10... -9 Within seconds. Because the spontaneous emission amplified light continuously consumes the energy provided by the main amplifier pump during the pulse interval, the amount of energy that can actually be stored in the laser medium and used for the pulse is reduced, resulting in a decrease in the final peak power of the laser.

[0043] Related nanosecond pulsed fiber lasers reduce the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and decrease the proportion of spontaneous emission amplified light by controlling the length of the active fiber in the pre-amplification path, but cannot completely eliminate these components, resulting in limited improvement in peak laser power. The SNR is used to represent the light composition; a higher SNR indicates a larger proportion of the desired light component and a better light source.

[0044] Low peak power lasers often fail to achieve good processing results when dealing with glass with high processing requirements: the processing efficiency is low and the quality of the finished product is poor.

[0045] To solve the above problems, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a laser pulse shaping device, including a first connector 10, a second connector 20, and a light-blocking component 30.

[0046] The first connector 10 is configured to connect to the pre-amplification device 70 and output a first light. The first light includes a first laser pulse and continuous light. The second connector 20 is configured to connect to the main amplification device 80 and input a second laser pulse to the main amplification device 80.

[0047] The pre-amplification device 70 is used in conjunction with the main amplification device 80. The pre-amplification device 70 is preferably configured as a pre-amplification optical path device, which mainly includes a pre-amplification pump source and a pre-amplification optical path structure, used to achieve high-gain amplification of small signals. The main amplification device 80 is preferably configured as a main amplification optical path device, which mainly includes a main amplification pump source and a main amplification optical path structure, used to achieve high-power gain amplification of the optical signal output from the pre-amplification optical path device. Both the pre-amplification optical path structure and the main amplification optical path structure include some mirrors, such as reflectors and lenses, while the pre-amplification pump source and the main amplification pump source are responsible for power supply.

[0048] During operation, the pre-amplification device 70 provides laser light with wavelength, quality stability, and other parameters that meet the requirements; in this embodiment of the invention, this is the first laser pulse. The first laser pulse output by the pre-amplification device 70 is input to the main amplification device 80, which injects energy into it and amplifies it into a higher-power laser.

[0049] In this embodiment of the invention, a first connector 10 and a second connector 20 are respectively provided to connect the corresponding devices to realize the transmission of laser pulses. For example, the two connectors can be optical fibers, or a combination of optical fibers and a collimator. The first connector 10 and the second connector 20 can be respectively provided with independent fixing structures for fixation, or the first connector 10, the second connector 20, and the light-blocking component 30 can be encapsulated together in a housing, as long as it ensures that both can successfully transmit laser pulses.

[0050] However, while generating the first laser pulse, continuous light, such as ASE beams, is also produced due to spontaneous emission and other reasons. In glass processing, the laser energy required is concentrated. Within the pulse interval, continuous light continuously consumes the main amplifier pump energy, reducing the final peak laser power and thus affecting the glass processing quality and efficiency.

[0051] Therefore, in this embodiment of the invention, a light-blocking component 30 is provided to ensure a high peak power of the final laser. Specifically, the second connector 20 is spaced apart from the first connector 10, and the light-blocking component 30 is disposed between the first connector 10 and the second connector 20. The light-blocking component 30 can be fixed with an independent fixing structure, or it can be encapsulated together with the two connectors using a housing.

[0052] The light-blocking component 30 is provided with a light-blocking part 31. Those skilled in the art can set the number of light-blocking parts 31 according to actual needs, such as one or more.

[0053] For example, the light-blocking part 31 can be a light-blocking sheet or a light-attenuating sheet with a specific refractive index. This ensures that the light-blocking component 30 has a short manufacturing time, low material cost, small size, facilitates the miniaturization of laser equipment, and is easy to maintain without requiring repeated adjustments to the optical path. Thus, light hitting the light-blocking part 31 is blocked and cannot pass through the light-blocking component 30, while light that does not hit the light-blocking part 31 is not blocked and can pass through the light-blocking component 30.

[0054] The light-blocking element 30 is configured to rotate relative to the first light while maintaining the target frequency and target delay. For example, a driver, such as a motor, can be used to drive the rotation of the light-blocking element 30.

[0055] While keeping the structure of other components unchanged, the target frequency can be set according to the frequency of the first laser pulse and the required frequency of the second laser pulse, thereby ensuring that the light-blocking part 31 of the light-blocking component 30 can block continuous light while allowing the first laser pulse to pass through. For example, using the first laser pulse as a reference, a relative frequency coefficient can be set when driving the light-blocking component 30 to rotate. The relative frequency coefficient is equal to the frequency of the first laser pulse divided by the frequency of the second laser pulse.

[0056] The target delay can be set according to the pulse width of the first laser pulse and the required pulse width of the second laser pulse. The target delay mainly includes the first delay duration and the second delay duration.

[0057] The first delay duration requires the light blocking unit 31 to delay the continuous light by a certain amount of time, thereby blocking the rising edge of the first laser pulse to a certain extent and shaping the rising edge.

[0058] The second delay duration is the time from when the light-blocking unit 31 completes shaping the rising edge of the first laser pulse and avoiding it, until it resumes blocking. It can also be understood as the duration of light transmission when the first laser pulse is not blocked. An appropriate second delay duration can be set so that the light-blocking unit 31 resumes blocking earlier, thereby also blocking the falling edge of the first laser pulse to a certain extent, thus achieving shaping of the falling edge.

[0059] In this way, the light-blocking part 31 of the light-blocking component 30 can shape the first laser pulse to obtain the second laser pulse, and the pulse width of the second laser pulse is smaller than the pulse width of the first laser pulse.

[0060] For example, if the first laser pulse frequency is 120KHz and the full pulse width is 500ns, and the relative frequency coefficient is set to 2, the first delay duration is 50ns, and the second delay duration is 400ns, then the resulting second laser pulse frequency is 60KHz and the full pulse width is 400ns.

[0061] Firstly, the light-blocking part 31 of the light-blocking member 30 can shape the first laser pulse and adjust its pulse width based on the light-blocking characteristics of the light-blocking part 31 before the first light is input to the second connector 20 and enters the main amplification device 80.

[0062] For example, the rising edge and / or falling edge of the first laser pulse can be blocked to obtain a second laser pulse with the target pulse shape. The power of the first laser pulse can be considered as a downward-opening parabola, meaning its power transitions from low to high power and then back to low power, exhibiting a power switching process. Generally, the range from low to high power in the power curve is called the rising edge, and the range from high to low power is called the falling edge.

[0063] Thus, there are three scenarios: blocking light only on the rising edge of the first laser pulse, blocking light only on the falling edge of the first laser pulse, and blocking light on both the rising and falling edges of the first laser pulse. All three scenarios can compress the pulse width of the first laser pulse.

[0064] As is understandable, the peak power of a laser is equal to the pulse energy divided by the pulse width. With the pulse energy remaining constant and the pulse width compressed by the light-blocking element 30, the peak power of the laser is increased.

[0065] It should be noted that, in addition to shaping each first laser pulse, a target rotation frequency can also be set to shape a pulse train containing multiple first laser pulses.

[0066] Secondly, the light-blocking part 31 of the light-blocking component 30 can block continuous light based on the light-blocking characteristics of the light-blocking part 31 during the process of the first light being input into the second connector 20, thereby preventing continuous light from entering the main amplification device 80 along with the shaped second laser pulse.

[0067] This effectively avoids premature consumption of the main amplifier's pump energy by continuous light. The peak laser power equals the pulse energy divided by the pulse width. By compressing the pulse width and eliminating pulse energy consumption, the peak laser power is effectively increased. The resulting laser output can then be used for high-quality and efficient glass processing.

[0068] Thirdly, the light-blocking component 30 rotates during operation, resulting in strong laser energy handling capability. Specifically, when the light-blocking component 30 rotates, the air around it has a relatively high flow rate, facilitating heat dissipation. Furthermore, even if deviations occur in the light-blocking component 30 due to heat, processing errors, etc., their impact can be mitigated by controlling its rotational speed, resulting in a high tolerance for errors.

[0069] Fourthly, the light-blocking component 30 is configured with light-blocking parts 31 of different shapes and sizes and rotation frequencies according to the actual laser, so as to be compatible with lasers with different spot diameters. Compared with the mode-locking schemes in related technologies that are limited by the diameter of their own optical fibers, and the acousto-optic modulators (AOM) or electro-optic modulators (EOM) that are limited by the crystal size, the light-blocking component 30 is particularly suitable for lasers with large-diameter spot diameters.

[0070] Reference Figure 3 As shown, Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the laser pulse shaping result. Figure 3 In the first light shown, the multiple downward-facing curves represent the first laser pulses, and the dashed lines between two adjacent first laser pulses represent the continuous light between pulse intervals, such as ASE light. By setting a light-blocking component 30 that can maintain the target frequency and target delay rotation relative to the first light, and by using the light-blocking part 31 of the light-blocking component 30 to block the continuous light and reshape the first laser pulses, a final laser with higher peak power can be obtained.

[0071] The laser pulse shaping device of this invention uses a rotating light-blocking component 30 that maintains the target frequency and target delay relative to the first light beam. The light-blocking portion 31 of the light-blocking component 30 blocks continuous light in the first light beam and simultaneously shapes the first laser pulse to obtain a second laser pulse. Firstly, adjusting the laser pulse width effectively increases the final peak power. Simultaneously, blocking continuous light prevents premature energy consumption, further enhancing the final peak power, allowing the output laser to perform high-quality and efficient glass processing. Secondly, the rotating light-blocking component 30 provides heat dissipation, high fault tolerance, and strong laser energy handling capability. Finally, the light-blocking component 30 is low-cost, small in size, easy to maintain, and compatible with lasers of different spot diameters.

[0072] Reference Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments of the laser pulse shaping device of the present invention, two light-blocking elements 30 are provided, and the two light-blocking elements 30 are arranged sequentially along the first direction D1. The light-blocking portions 31 of the two light-blocking elements 30 are staggered along the rotation direction of the light-blocking elements 30. The first direction D1 is parallel to the arrangement direction of the first connecting member 10 and the second connecting member 20. Preferably, the rotation axis of the light-blocking element 30 is parallel to the first direction D1, and the two light-blocking elements 30 are arranged along the same rotation axis.

[0073] The light-blocking element 30 shapes different first laser pulses based on the shape and size of its own light-blocking part 31 and the target rotation frequency. For first laser pulses with a wide pulse width, such as tens or hundreds of nanoseconds, a single light-blocking element 30 can be used to directly achieve pulse width shaping and continuous light elimination. However, for first laser pulses with a narrow pulse width, using only one light-blocking element 30 requires relatively high processing standards, leading to increased costs.

[0074] Therefore, for the first laser pulse with a narrow pulse width, this embodiment of the invention provides two light-blocking elements 30, and sets the light-blocking portions 31 of the two light-blocking elements 30 to be misaligned in the rotation direction of the light-blocking elements 30. By having the two light-blocking elements 30 cooperate with each other, a narrower gap is created between one light-blocking portion 31 of one light-blocking element and one light-blocking portion 31 of the other light-blocking element 30, thereby achieving adaptation to the first laser pulse with a narrow pulse width. Based on this, the processing difficulty of the light-blocking portion 31 on a single light-blocking element 30 is effectively reduced, thus saving processing time and material costs.

[0075] In actual use, more light-blocking elements 30 can be set, such as three, four, five, etc., but it is preferred to set only two.

[0076] The two light-blocking elements 30 can be rotated using the same driver, or each light-blocking element 30 can be rotated using an independent driver. During continuous light blocking and shaping, the two light-blocking elements 30 rotate synchronously.

[0077] Furthermore, refer to Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in some embodiments of the laser pulse shaping apparatus of the present invention, at least one light-blocking element 30 is configured to be rotatable relative to another light-blocking element 30 to adjust the pulse width range shaped by the light-blocking portion 31. Thus, there are three possible scenarios.

[0078] In the first configuration, the first light-blocking element 30 is rotatable relative to the second light-blocking element 30. In the second configuration, the second light-blocking element 30 is rotatable relative to the first light-blocking element 30. In the third configuration, both light-blocking elements 30 are rotatable relative to another light-blocking element 30.

[0079] The rotation direction of the light-blocking element 30 is preferably the original rotation direction or the opposite direction. When the two light-blocking parts 31 are relatively close, the pulse width of the second laser pulse decreases accordingly; conversely, when the two light-blocking parts 31 are relatively far apart, the pulse width of the second laser pulse increases accordingly. After adjustment, the two light-blocking elements 30 rotate synchronously.

[0080] In glass processing, different products, and even different parts of the same product, may require different lasers. Consequently, the pulse width of the second laser pulse may also have varying requirements. By configuring at least one light-blocking element 30 to be rotatable relative to another light-blocking element 30, the pulse width range of the light-blocking section 31 can be adjusted. The optimal relative angle α can be set according to actual needs to obtain the most suitable second laser pulse, increasing the device's compatibility with different processing requirements.

[0081] In some embodiments of the laser pulse shaping device of the present invention, the light-blocking component 30 is further provided with a light-transmitting part for transmitting light. The light-transmitting part can be configured as a light-transmitting hole 32 or an attenuation component 33.

[0082] Reference Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments, taking the setting of a light-transmitting hole 32 in the light-blocking element 30 as an example, the shape of the light-transmitting hole 32 can be set according to actual needs. For example, the light-transmitting hole 32 can be set as a round hole, a square hole, a trapezoidal hole, a triangular hole, etc. When multiple light-blocking elements 30 are set, it is preferable to set two light-blocking elements 30 to be the same, including setting the shape of the light-transmitting hole 32 to be the same in both.

[0083] Preferably, the light-transmitting hole 32 includes two first shaped sides 321. The two first shaped sides 321 are arranged alternately along the rotation direction of the light-blocking member 30. Along the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the light-blocking member 30, the spacing between the two first shaped sides 321 in the rotation direction of the light-blocking member 30 gradually decreases.

[0084] Understandably, the spacing between the two first shaping sides 321 in the rotation direction of the light-blocking member 30 can be in two ways. First, along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the light-blocking member 30, from the rotation center of the light-blocking member 30 towards the edge, the spacing between the two first shaping sides 321 in the rotation direction of the light-blocking member 30 gradually decreases. For example, in... Figure 6 In the diagram, X1 and X2 respectively indicate the spacing dimensions of the first shaping side 321. In the second case, along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the light-blocking element 30, from the edge of the light-blocking element 30 towards the rotation center, the spacing dimensions of the two first shaping side edges 321 gradually decrease in the rotation direction of the light-blocking element 30.

[0085] With the light-transmitting hole 32 having two first shaping sides 321, the two light-blocking elements 30 can cooperate with each other to achieve flexible adjustment of the pulse width range of the light-blocking part 31.

[0086] Preferably, the shape of the light-transmitting hole 32 is set as an isosceles trapezoidal hole, and the two legs of the isosceles trapezoid are the two first shaping sides 321.

[0087] Reference Figure 6 As shown, in some embodiments of the laser pulse shaping device of the present invention, the light-transmitting holes 32 and light-blocking portions 31 of the light-blocking component 30 are provided in multiple ways. Along the rotation direction of the light-blocking component 30, the multiple light-transmitting holes 32 and the multiple light-blocking portions 31 are arranged alternately in sequence.

[0088] It is understandable that the first shaping side 321 of the light-transmitting hole 32 can also be understood as the side of the two light-blocking parts 31 on the adjacent sides of the light-transmitting hole 32. By setting multiple light-transmitting holes 32 and multiple light-blocking parts 31, the switching between light transmission and light blocking can be achieved more efficiently, enabling flexible adaptation to the first light and reducing the speed requirements of the light-blocking component 30.

[0089] Furthermore, refer to Figure 7 As shown, in some embodiments of the laser pulse shaping device of the present invention, the light-blocking member 30 is configured to be movable relative to the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the light-blocking member 30, or / and the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 are configured to be movable relative to the light-blocking member 30.

[0090] Thus, there are three scenarios. First, only the light-blocking element 30 is configured to be movable relative to the first connector 10 and the second connector 20. Second, the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 are configured to be movable relative to the light-blocking element 30. Third, the light-blocking element 30 is movable relative to both the first connector 10 and the second connector 20.

[0091] The specific movement and adjustment methods of the light-blocking component 30, the first connecting component 10, and the second connecting component 20 can be set according to actual needs. For example, when using independent structures to fix each component, a driver, or components such as guide rails and guide rail clamps can be added to the corresponding fixing structure to achieve movement adjustment. When using the encapsulation housing 60 to encapsulate each component, multiple adjustment holes can be pre-set on the encapsulation housing 60 so that movement adjustment can be achieved by changing the mounting holes of the components.

[0092] Taking the isosceles trapezoidal light-transmitting hole 32 as an example, if the light-blocking member 30 is moved relative to the first connector 10 and the second connector 20, or if the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 are moved relative to the light-blocking member 30, the spacing between the two corresponding first shaping sides 321 in the rotation direction of the light-blocking member 30 will also be different.

[0093] In this way, the pulse width range of the light-blocking section 31 can be adjusted to obtain the most suitable second laser pulse, increasing the device's compatibility with different processing requirements.

[0094] It should be noted that the movement and adjustment of each component along the direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the light-blocking component 30 can be used in conjunction with the scheme of adjusting the pulse width range by relative rotation between the light-blocking components 30, or it can be used independently.

[0095] Reference Figure 8As shown, in some embodiments of the laser pulse shaping device of the present invention, at least one light-blocking element 30 is configured to be movable relative to another light-blocking element 30 along the first direction D1.

[0096] Thus, there are three scenarios. First, the first light-blocking element 30 is movable relative to the second light-blocking element 30. Second, the second light-blocking element 30 is movable relative to the first light-blocking element 30. Third, both light-blocking elements 30 are movable.

[0097] The movable nature of the light-blocking component 30 along the first direction D1 can be configured according to actual needs. For example, when using an independent structure to fix each light-blocking component 30, a driver, or components such as guide rails and guide rail clamps can be added to the corresponding fixing structure to achieve movement adjustment. When using the encapsulation housing 60 to encapsulate each component, multiple adjustment holes can be pre-set on the encapsulation housing 60 so that movement adjustment can be achieved by changing the mounting holes of the light-blocking component 30.

[0098] In practical use, taking a collimator as an example, different collimators have different working distance requirements in the first direction D1. For example, it may require 8cm or 10cm. By setting the light-blocking element 30 to be movable along the first direction D1, it can be compatible with different collimators. In this way, when needed, only the collimator needs to be replaced instead of the entire device.

[0099] Meanwhile, in some special cases, additional components, such as filters or apertures, may be required between the pre-amplifier 70 and the main amplifier 80. In such cases, the light-blocking component 30, which is movable along the first direction D1, can facilitate functional expansion.

[0100] Finally, during mass production, laser pulses may vary. To ensure consistent shaping effects such as the rising and falling edges of the pulses, the spacing of the light-blocking element 30 in the first direction D1 may be fine-tuned. Directly setting the light-blocking element 30 to be movable along the first direction D1 can effectively increase the fault tolerance of the device.

[0101] Reference Figure 9 As shown, in some other embodiments, taking the light-blocking component 30 as an example, the attenuation component 33 allows the laser pulse to pass through, while the blocking component is responsible for blocking continuous light and reshaping it. Unlike the hollow structure of the light-passing hole 32, the attenuation component 33 is a solid structure, but it can also work with the light-blocking component 31 to block continuous light and reshape the first laser pulse.

[0102] The attenuation component 33 is preferably an optical attenuator, but it can also be coated on a flat lens, for example, a reflective or absorptive film of 1 to 1.1 micrometers. The refractive index of the attenuation component 33 can be set to 1.35, 1.37, 1.42, 1.45, 1.47, etc.

[0103] Furthermore, the light-blocking component 30 has multiple attenuation components 33 and multiple light-blocking parts 31. Along the rotation direction of the light-blocking component 30, multiple attenuation components 33 and multiple light-blocking parts 31 are arranged alternately in sequence. By setting multiple attenuation components 33 and multiple light-blocking parts 31, the switching between light transmission and light blocking can be achieved more efficiently, enabling flexible adaptation to the first light and reducing the rotational speed requirements of the light-blocking component 30.

[0104] Furthermore, the attenuation component 33 includes two second shaping sides 331. Along the rotation direction of the light-blocking component 30, the two second shaping sides 331 are arranged at intervals. Along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the light-blocking component 30, the interval between the two second shaping sides 331 in the rotation direction of the light-blocking component 30 gradually decreases.

[0105] Understandably, there are two possible arrangements of the spacing between the two second shaping sides 331 in the rotation direction of the light-blocking element 30. First, along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the light-blocking element 30, from the rotation center of the light-blocking element 30 towards the edge, the spacing between the two second shaping sides 331 gradually decreases in the rotation direction of the light-blocking element 30. Second, along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the light-blocking element 30, from the edge of the light-blocking element 30 towards the rotation center, the spacing between the two second shaping sides 331 gradually decreases in the rotation direction of the light-blocking element 30.

[0106] With the light-transmitting hole 32 having two second shaping sides 331, the two light-blocking elements 30 can cooperate with each other to flexibly adjust the pulse width range of the light-blocking part 31. Preferably, the shape of the attenuation element 33 is set to fan-shaped or fan-ring-shaped.

[0107] Similar to the light-transmitting aperture 32, when the attenuation component 33 is provided, the light-blocking component 30 can also be configured to be movable relative to the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the light-blocking component 30, or / and the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 can be configured to be movable relative to the light-blocking component 30 in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the light-blocking component 30. This allows for flexible adjustment of the pulse width.

[0108] Understandably, whether a light-transmitting aperture 32 or an attenuation component 33 is provided, the number of light-blocking elements 30 can be set according to actual needs. When multiple light-blocking elements 30 are provided, the relative rotation and relative movement between them can also be set according to actual needs.

[0109] In some embodiments, the laser pulse shaping device of the present invention further includes a rotation drive 40. The rotation drive 40 is disposed between the first connecting member 10 and the second connecting member 20. The driving end of the rotation drive 40 is connected to the light-blocking member 30 to drive the light-blocking member 30 to rotate. The rotation drive 40 and the light-blocking member 30 can be configured in a one-to-one manner, or in a one-to-many manner.

[0110] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the rotational speed of the rotary drive 40 is configured to be adjustable to adjust the magnitude of the target frequency.

[0111] As is understandable, the peak power of a laser is equal to the pulse energy divided by the pulse width, and the pulse energy is equal to the average power divided by the target frequency. By adjusting the rotational speed of the drive component 40, the target frequency can be adjusted, thereby adjusting the pulse energy. In other words, by reducing the frequency, the pulse energy is increased, thus increasing the peak power.

[0112] Preferably, the rotary driver is a motor, and the transmission between the motor and the light-blocking component 30 is prior art and will not be described in detail here.

[0113] Reference Figure 11 As shown, in some embodiments, the laser pulse shaping device of the present invention further includes a controller 50. The controller 50 is electrically connected to the rotation drive 40, for example, via a wired or wireless connection.

[0114] The controller 50 is configured to transmit a second control signal. The rotation drive 40 is configured to, upon receiving the second control signal, cause the light-blocking member 30 to rotate relative to the first light at the target frequency and target delay.

[0115] If necessary, the target frequency and target delay can be adjusted by adjusting the second control signal. The signal control of the controller 50 and the rotary drive 40 is prior art, and its specific principles will not be elaborated further.

[0116] In related technologies, a pre-start signal is typically sent to both the pre-amplification pump source and the main pump source to allow the pump sources to pump energy in advance, ensuring that the particle inversion number within the active fiber reaches the desired level—that is, the active fiber stores energy in advance. When a subsequent working signal (such as a third control signal) is received, the first pulse of the laser consumes the inverted particle number within the active fiber, thereby increasing the first pulse amplitude to the ideal value, achieving an enhanced first pulse amplitude.

[0117] Because precision glass processing requires a high initial pulse amplitude, the pump source current is larger during pre-startup, resulting in a higher particle inversion number within the active fiber. However, this increased particle inversion number induces ASE light in the pre-amplification path. The ASE light is transmitted to the main amplification path as continuous light, thereby consuming the inverted particle number in the main amplification path, amplifying the optical power, and then the laser is output from the main amplification path, striking the surface of the workpiece.

[0118] From a process efficiency perspective, even before the first pulse is output, hundreds of milliwatts of laser light leak out, leaving significant scratches on sensitive and fragile workpieces, resulting in a large number of defective parts and a low product yield. Simultaneously, the first pulse is also affected, with a relatively lower amplitude.

[0119] To further address this issue, the controller 50 is configured to transmit a first control signal. The rotary drive 40 is also configured, upon receiving the first control signal, to position the light-blocking portion 31 of the light-blocking member 30 between the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 to block the first light.

[0120] Thus, the light-blocking section 31 blocks the first light before the first pulse is output, preventing the ASE light from sneaking out and consuming the number of inverted particles in the main amplifier optical path. Thus, refer to... Figure 10 As shown, this design not only increases the amplitude of the first pulse but also prevents light leakage, thus avoiding damage to the workpiece. For reference, the pre-pumping capability of a conventional MOPA laser's main output path is extremely low, approximately 1W. By installing a light-blocking section 31 before the first pulse output to block the first light, this can be increased to approximately 6W. This effectively improves the stability and lifespan of the device.

[0121] Reference Figure 11 As shown, in some embodiments of the laser pulse shaping device of the present invention, the first connector 10 includes a first collimator 11 and a first optical fiber 12. The first optical fiber 12 is connected to the first collimator 11 and is configured to connect to the pre-amplification device 70. The second connector 20 includes a second collimator 21 and a second optical fiber 22. A light-blocking element 30 is disposed between the first collimator 11 and the second collimator 21. The second optical fiber 22 is connected to the second collimator 21 and is configured to connect to the main amplification device 80. Thus, light is transmitted by connecting to the pre-amplification device 70 or the main amplification device 80 through the corresponding optical fiber. At the same time, the two collimators cooperate to collimate the light and realize the conversion between optical fiber and spatial transmission, so as to achieve shaping and blocking of continuous light.

[0122] Furthermore, refer to Figure 11 As shown, in some embodiments, the laser pulse shaping device of the present invention further includes a packaging housing 60. The first collimator 11, the light-blocking element 30, and the second collimator 21 are all disposed within the packaging housing 60.

[0123] Thus, the encapsulation housing 60 provides mechanical protection for the internal components and facilitates modular production of the device. Both the first collimator 11 and the second collimator 21 are connected to the encapsulation housing 60, preferably with a detachable connection. When a rotary driver is used to drive the light-blocking element 30, it is preferable to connect the rotary driver to the encapsulation housing 60. The controller 50 can be located outside the encapsulation housing 60, transmitting signals to the corresponding components via wired or wireless means, or it can be housed within the encapsulation housing 60.

[0124] If necessary, additional drivers, guide rails, and other components can be installed on the encapsulation housing 60 to adjust the collimator and light-blocking component 30.

[0125] On the other hand, refer to Figure 11 As shown, this embodiment of the invention also provides a laser device, including a pre-amplification device 70, a main amplification device 80, and the laser pulse shaping device described in any of the above embodiments. Since the laser device of this invention includes the laser pulse shaping device described in the above embodiments, it also possesses all the beneficial effects described herein, and will not be repeated here.

[0126] Preferably, the controller 50 is configured to transmit a third control signal. The pre-amplification device 70 is configured to activate and output a first light when receiving the third control signal.

[0127] Preferably, the controller 50 is configured to transmit a fourth control signal. Both the pre-amplification device 70 and the main amplification device 80 are configured to activate the main amplification pump source for pre-pumping upon receiving the fourth control signal.

[0128] On the other hand, refer to Figure 12 As shown, this embodiment of the invention also provides a laser pulse shaping method, applied to the laser device described in any of the above embodiments. The laser pulse shaping method includes the following steps:

[0129] First, in response to a third control signal, the pre-amplification device 70 is activated, causing the first connector 10 connected to the pre-amplification device 70 to output first light. The first light includes a first laser pulse and continuous light. A second connector 20 is spaced apart from the first connector 10 and connected to the main amplification device 80. A light-blocking component 30 is disposed between the first connector 10 and the second connector 20, and the light-blocking component 30 has a light-blocking portion 31.

[0130] Secondly, in response to the second control signal, the light-blocking element 30 is controlled to rotate relative to the first light to maintain the target frequency and target delay, so as to block continuous light through the light-blocking part 31 and shape the first laser pulse to obtain a second laser pulse. The pulse width of the second laser pulse is smaller than the pulse width of the first laser pulse.

[0131] Finally, the second connector 20 inputs a second laser pulse to the main amplification device 80.

[0132] The order in which the second and third control signals are sent can be reversed, or both can be sent simultaneously.

[0133] In some embodiments of the laser pulse shaping method of the present invention, before activating the pre-amplification device 70 in response to a third control signal to cause the first connector 10 connected to the pre-amplification device 70 to output first light, the method further includes the step of: in response to a first control signal, controlling the light-blocking part 31 of the light-blocking member 30 to be disposed between the first connector 10 and the second connector 20 to block the first light. This primarily involves the light-blocking part 31 blocking the continuous light emitted by the pre-amplification device 70.

[0134] Working principle:

[0135] Taking the trapezoidal light-transmitting hole 32 as an example, before glass processing, the pulse width range of the light-blocking component 30 and the spacing between adjacent light-blocking components 30 are set according to the processing requirements of the workpiece to be processed.

[0136] Secondly, the controller 50 transmits a first control signal, causing the light-blocking part 31 of the light-blocking component 30 to be positioned between the first collimator 11 and the second collimator 21.

[0137] Next, the controller 50 sends a fourth control signal to activate the pre-amplifier 70 and the main amplifier 80 to achieve pre-pumping. During this process, the pre-amplifier 70 will emit ASE light due to the high number of inverted particles. However, since the light blocking part 31 is set in advance to block the ASE light, it will not consume the number of inverted particles in the main amplifier path or damage the workpiece, which effectively ensures a high product yield.

[0138] Subsequently, the controller 50 transmits a third control signal and a second control signal, and the pre-amplification device 70 outputs a first light, which includes a first laser pulse and continuous light. At the same time, the light-blocking element 30 rotates relative to the first light at the target frequency and target delay to block the continuous light through the light-blocking part 31 and to reshape the first laser pulse to obtain a second laser pulse.

[0139] Finally, the second laser pulse enters the main amplification device 80 from the second collimator 21. The amplitude of the first second laser pulse is effectively increased, and the peak power of each subsequent second laser pulse is also effectively increased. This results in higher processing quality and efficiency.

[0140] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0141] Furthermore, it should be noted that the use of terms such as "first" and "second" to define components is merely for the purpose of distinguishing the corresponding components. Unless otherwise stated, the above terms have no special meaning and therefore should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of this invention.

[0142] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A laser pulse shaping device, characterized in that, include: A first connector is configured to connect to a pre-amplification device and output a first light; wherein the first light includes a first laser pulse and continuous light; A second connector is spaced apart from the first connector; the second connector is configured to connect to the main amplification device and input a second laser pulse to the main amplification device; wherein the pulse width of the second laser pulse is smaller than the pulse width of the first laser pulse; A light-blocking component is disposed between the first connector and the second connector; the light-blocking component is provided with a light-transmitting part and a light-blocking part, and the light-blocking component is configured to maintain the target frequency and target delay relative to the first light, so as to block the continuous light through the light-blocking part, and to shape the first laser pulse to obtain the second laser pulse, and to transmit light through the light-transmitting part; The controller is configured to transmit a first control signal and a second control signal; A rotating drive is disposed between the first connector and the second connector; the drive end of the rotating drive is connected to the light-blocking component to drive the light-blocking component to rotate; the rotating drive is electrically connected to the controller; the rotating drive is configured to, upon receiving the first control signal, cause the light-blocking portion of the light-blocking component to be disposed between the first connector and the second connector to block the first light before the first pulse is output; and, upon receiving the second control signal, cause the light-blocking component to rotate relative to the first light at the target frequency and the target delay. The light-transmitting part includes two shaping sides; the two shaping sides are arranged alternately along the rotation direction of the light-blocking element; the spacing between the two shaping sides gradually decreases along the rotation direction of the light-blocking element, which is perpendicular to the rotation axis of the light-blocking element. Along a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis of the light-blocking element, the light-blocking element is configured to be movable relative to the first connector and the second connector, or / and the first connector and the second connector are configured to be movable relative to the light-blocking element.

2. The laser pulse shaping device according to claim 1, characterized in that: Two light-blocking components are provided, and the two light-blocking components are arranged sequentially along a first direction; the light-blocking portions of the two light-blocking components are staggered along the rotation direction of the light-blocking components; wherein, the first direction is parallel to the arrangement direction of the first connector and the second connector.

3. The laser pulse shaping device according to claim 2, characterized in that: At least one of the light-blocking elements is configured to be rotatable relative to the other light-blocking element to adjust the pulse width range of the light-blocking portion.

4. The laser pulse shaping device according to claim 2, characterized in that: Along the first direction, at least one of the light-blocking elements is configured to be movable relative to the other light-blocking element.

5. The laser pulse shaping device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The light-transmitting part is configured as a light-transmitting hole or an attenuation component.

6. The laser pulse shaping device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The light-transmitting part and the light-blocking part of the light-blocking component are provided in multiples; along the rotation direction of the light-blocking component, the multiple light-transmitting parts and the multiple light-blocking parts are arranged alternately in sequence.

7. The laser pulse shaping device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The rotational speed of the rotary drive is configured to be adjustable to adjust the magnitude of the target frequency.

8. The laser pulse shaping device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that: The first connector includes a first collimator and a first optical fiber, the first optical fiber being connected to the first collimator and configured to connect to the pre-amplification device; The second connector includes a second collimator and a second optical fiber, and the light-blocking element is disposed between the first collimator and the second collimator; the second optical fiber is connected to the second collimator and is configured to connect to the main amplification device.

9. The laser pulse shaping device according to claim 8, characterized in that, Also includes: Encapsulation housing; The first collimator, the light-blocking element, and the second collimator are all disposed within the packaging housing, and the first collimator and the second collimator are both connected to the packaging housing.

10. A laser device, characterized in that, It includes a pre-amplification device, a main amplification device, and a laser pulse shaping device as described in any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. A laser pulse shaping method, applied to the laser device as described in claim 10, characterized in that, Including the following steps: In response to a first control signal, the light-blocking part of the control light-blocking component is disposed between the first connector and the second connector to block the first light before the first pulse is output; wherein, the first light includes a first laser pulse and continuous light; the second connector is disposed at a distance from the first connector and is connected to the main amplification device; the light-blocking component is disposed between the first connector and the second connector, and the light-blocking component is provided with a light-transmitting part and a light-blocking part; In response to a third control signal, the pre-amplification device is activated so that the first connector connected to the pre-amplification device outputs the first light; In response to a second control signal, the light-blocking element is controlled to rotate relative to the first light at a target frequency and target delay, so as to block the continuous light through the light-blocking part and shape the first laser pulse to obtain a second laser pulse, and transmit light through the light-transmitting part; wherein, the pulse width of the second laser pulse is smaller than the pulse width of the first laser pulse; The second connector inputs the second laser pulse to the main amplification device.

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