Correction optical element for a coherent beam coupling system, and a system and method for coherent beam coupling using the same.

Abstract

A corrective optical element (COE) for a multi-channel coherent beam combining (CBC) system using a fiber array including a plurality of optical fibers and a single collimation array including a plurality of collimating lenses for coherently combining an array of corresponding light beams directed through the fiber array. The COE has at least the L of each corresponding optical fiber. ij Output end and corresponding collimating lens L ij The segments are configured to be customized to correct collimation-based optical aberrations caused by misalignment between the centers of the segments.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates in general to optical elements for correcting optical aberrations, and more specifically to correcting optical elements used for correcting optical aberrations in a multi-channel optical system. [Background technology]

[0002] Near-diffraction-limited high-power lasers, such as amplified fiber lasers (fiber amplifiers), are implemented in various scientific and industrial applications, enabling the realization of high-power optical signals.

[0003] Coherent beam coupling (CBC) is used to combine multiple light beams (channels) of overlapping or identical wavelengths or narrow wavelength bands into a single output beam.

[0004] CBC systems may be implemented using phased array CBCs (also known as "side-by-side CBCs"), which use an array of collimators (lenslet arrays) each collimating a separate incident light beam. Other CBC techniques include one or more diffraction grating elements (also known as "field aperture techniques").

[0005] The drawings generally illustrate various embodiments described herein as examples, not as limitations.

[0006] To simplify and clarify the explanation, the elements shown in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to a consistent scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements may be exaggerated relative to others for clarity. Furthermore, reference numerals may be repeated between drawings to indicate corresponding or similar elements. References to previously presented elements are implied without necessarily citing further drawings or explanations in which they appear. The drawings are as follows: [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figures 1A to 1C illustrate a coherent beam coupling (CBC) system using a custom-designed corrective optical element with segmented embossing facing the output surface of the lenslet array of the CBC system, according to several embodiments. Figure 1A shows a side view of at least a portion of the CBC system; Figure 1B shows a side view of at least a portion of the CBC system, including an illumination unit for providing input optical beams to multiple optical fibers of the CBC system; and Figure 1C shows a front view of the corrective optical element. [Figure 2] Figures 2A and 2B illustrate a coherent beam coupling (CBC) system, according to several embodiments, that uses a corrective optical element having a custom-designed segmented embossed, engraved, or etched input surface facing the output surface of the lenslet array of the CBC system. Figure 2A shows a side view of at least a portion of the CBC system, and Figure 2B shows a side view of at least a portion of the CBC system, including an illumination unit for providing input optical beams to multiple optical fibers of the CBC system. [Figure 3] Figures 3A and 3B illustrate a coherent beam coupling (CBC) system that uses a corrective optical element integrated with a lenslet array of a CBC system by having an input surface of the corrective optical element including segmented embossing or etching, and an output surface of the corrective optical element having a bulge used as a collimated lenslet array. Figure 3A shows a side view of at least a portion of the CBC system, and Figure 3B shows a side view of at least a portion of the CBC system, including an illumination unit for providing input optical beams to multiple optical fibers of the CBC system. [Figure 4]Figures 4A and 4B show a coherent beam coupling (CBC) system, according to several embodiments, that uses a corrective optical element having a custom-designed segmented embossed or etched surface on which corrective optical elements are integrated with a lenslet array and end capping elements connected to the output ends of optical fibers on its input surface, acting as a monolithic integrated end-capping collimation corrective element. Figure 4A shows a side view of at least a portion of the CBC system, and Figure 4B shows a side view of at least a portion of the CBC system, including an illumination unit for providing input optical beams to multiple optical fibers of the CBC system. [Figure 5] This flowchart schematically illustrates a method for CBC using a customized corrective optical element according to several embodiments. [Figure 6] The diagrams show CBC systems using customized corrective optical elements according to several embodiments. [Figure 7] According to some embodiments, a detection system for detecting aberrations in each channel of a multi-channel CBC system is shown to determine the necessary corrections for each channel of the CBC system. [Figure 8] The diagram shows a 3x3 correction segment curved or embossed on the surface of a correction optical element according to several embodiments. [Figure 9] Figures 9A and 9B show single-channel measurement images collimated by one lenslet of the CBC lenslet array, with Figure 9A showing a segment without aberrations and Figure 9B showing angular indication error aberrations. [Figure 10] Figures 10A and 10B show single-channel measurement images collimated by one lenslet of the CBC lenslet array. Figure 10A shows a segment without aberration, while Figure 10B shows the defocus aberration resulting from inaccuracies in the radius of curvature of a particular lens in a particular channel. [Figure 11]Figures 11A and 11B show single-channel measurement images collimated by one lenslet of the CBC lenslet array. Figure 11A shows a segment without aberrations, while Figure 11B shows aberrations caused by inaccuracies in the fiber-lens connection (e.g., off-axis splicing of the fiber-lens in channels, which can result in coma and other wavefront aberrations). [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Aspects of the disclosed embodiments relate to a corrective optical element (COE) customized for a particular coherent beam coupling (CBC) system, which coherently couples a corresponding M×N optical beam ("channel") using at least M×N optical fibers, an M×N collimated lenslet array, and an end cap element connected (e.g., via a fusion splice) to the output end of the M×N optical fibers at its flat input surface, where M and N are integers greater than or equal to 1 (N≧1, M≧1). Correcting aberrations specific to the CBC system in a customized manner can dramatically improve the far-field (FF) performance of the CBC system, for example, in terms of FF energy distribution, spatial coherence of the coupled beam, etc.

[0009] According to some embodiments, the COE is custom-manufactured to correct specific optical aberrations inherent to a particular single CBC system in which the COE is used, by having M × N correction segments, with each correction segment CS ij This refers to the corresponding output beam B, which is output from each channel "ij" of the CBC system. ij The position and configuration are customized to correct one or more specific pre-measured optical aberrations, where "i" is an integer representing a row number from 1 to M, and "j" is an integer representing a column number from 1 to N.

[0010] In some embodiments, the COE may correct, for example, the optical aberrations affecting the coherent beam combining performance of a particular CBC system caused by inaccuracies in the relative positions between the output ends of respective optical fibers and the centers of corresponding collimating lenses L ij (e.g., microlenses) of the microlens array of that particular CBC system, in segments.

[0011] Correction of all aberrations for all segments can be optically performed simultaneously for all M×N channels. <0000​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ each optical fiber F ij each output beam B emitted from ij or one or more optical aberrations A of channel ij ij measuring step (where A ij represents one or more optical aberrations of a particular channel ij), and

[0021] for each segment CS of the COE ij determining, for a particular CBC system and a particular position and alignment of the COE to be manufactured, the correction design necessary to correct all or at least some of the measured optical aberrations of each channel ij (resulting in obtaining complete COE design data),

[0022] manufacturing a COE having M×N segments for a particular CBC system by constructing each segment of the COE according to the respective required correction design (e.g., according to the COE design data),

[0023] each segment CE of the COE ij is arranged at an optimal position with respect to the output optical beam B ij arranging the COE at the determined position for optimal aberration correction,

[0024] using the COE to simultaneously correct the optical aberrations of a particular CBC system, and is related to a method that may include

[0025] According to some embodiments, measuring the optical aberration of each segment may be performed by measuring the overall spatial distribution of the FF combined beam before being corrected by the designed COE, and / or by measuring each output beam individually or each channel of the combined output beam of the CBC system in segments.

[0026] Measuring the optical aberration may further be performed using all the components required for all CBCs.

[0027] Aspects of the disclosed embodiments are systems for coherent beam coupling (CBC),

[0028] At least one light source for irradiating with light in a narrow wavelength band (WB),

[0029] An M×N optical fiber configured to guide light emitted from at least one light source,

[0030] An M×N collimated lenslet array for coherently coupling M×N optical beams from M×N optical fibers,

[0031] A corrective optical element (COE) customized to correct the optical aberrations of a specific single CBC system segment by segment, The COE includes M × N correction segments, and each correction segment CS ij The corresponding optical fiber F for each IJ channel. ij The corresponding output beam B emitted from there ij The position and configuration are customized to correct one or more specific, pre-measured optical aberrations. It's related to the system.

[0032] According to some embodiments, the CBC system may also include optical means for splitting and / or directing light emanating from at least one light source to the input end of an optical fiber ("input port").

[0033] According to some embodiments, the CBC system can further improve far-field (FF) performance by addressing specific requirements, such as optimal / maximum FF spatial coherence, i.e., maximum power in bucket (PIB), and 90% energy divergence angle [θ]. div This may include means for locking / adapting / synchronizing the phase and / or polarization of all beams in all M×N channels to obtain a specific FF distribution that satisfies (such as peak intensity (PI)).

[0034] According to some embodiments, the CBC system may be similar to or identical to one of the CBC systems using a phase / polarization-locked feedback loop based on signals from M×N photodetectors, as described in Patent Application No. IL275783, which is incorporated herein in whole by reference.

[0035] Note that in this specification, the terms "light beam" and "beam" may be used interchangeably.

[0036] According to some embodiments, the optical fiber may include one or more of the following: a high-power fiber laser, and a fiber amplifier configured to guide narrowband light in optical ranges such as the infrared (IR), near-infrared (NIR), ultraviolet (UV), near-ultraviolet (NUV), and / or visible (VIS) range.

[0037] The operating center wavelength for realizing a given fiber laser CBC may be in the range of 0.4 to 2.5 μm (micrometers), but in all cases, the wavelength is fixed to a typical narrow linewidth of several GHz (gigahertz).

[0038] Aspects of the disclosed embodiments relate to a corrective optical element (COE) for a multi-channel coherent beam coupling (CBC) system that uses a fiber array comprising a plurality of optical fibers and a single collimation array comprising a plurality of collimating lenses for coherently coupling an array of corresponding light beams induced through the fiber array.

[0039] Each pair of collimating lenses in a collimation array and corresponding optical fibers in a fiber array can define a channel ij.

[0040] According to some embodiments, the COE can be custom-manufactured to correct the optical aberrations of a particular single CBC system by having an array of correction segments, and each correction segment CS ij This is a collimation lens L ijand the corresponding optical fiber F ij The corresponding output light beam B is output from each corresponding pair. ij The position and configuration are customized to correct one or more specific, pre-measured optical aberrations.

[0041] The COE is at least L of each corresponding optical fiber. ij Output terminal and corresponding collimating lens L ij The system can be configured to be customized to correct optical aberrations based on collimation caused by misalignment between the center and the segment, and the correction of optical aberrations in all channels of the system is performed optically simultaneously by the COE, and the COE can be positioned before or after the collimation array so that coherent beam coupling is achieved by first achieving a near-field collimated and corrected array of light beams with respect to the positions of the COE and the collimation array.

[0042] Here, we refer to Figures 1A to 1C, which show a coherent beam coupling (CBC) system 100 that uses a separate correcting optical element (COE) 150 to correct optical aberrations in a 6x6 channel, according to some embodiments. This CBC system 100 is

[0043] For example, 1st floor of column 1 11 , 1F 21 , 1F 31 , 1F 41 , 1F 51 , and 1F 61 etc. 1st floor 11 ~1st floor 66 An array of optical fibers 110, including a 6x6 optical fiber,

[0044] An end cap element 120 is connected to the input surface 121 of a 6x6 optical fiber 110,

[0045] The first row of lenses 1L has a flat input surface 131 facing the output surface 122 of the end cap element 120, and an output surface 132 on the opposite side having a 6x6 bulge for collimating the beam coming out of the output surface 122 of the end cap element 120, and the first row is integrally connected to a lens 1L. 11 ~1L 61 Lenslet array element 130,

[0046] The first row has an input surface 151 facing the bulged output surface 132 of the lenslet array 130, and a flat output surface 152 from which all beams emitted from the optical fiber 110 are ultimately combined, corrected, and coherently coupled as an output beam 105, the first row of which is integrally connected to a correction segment 1CS 11 ~1CS 61 Includes each CS ij For example, a segmented COE150 having one or more prism-shaped (e.g., pyramidal) wedges on which are embossed, curved, coated, or etched, Includes.

[0047] As shown in Figure 1B, the optical fiber 110 can be connected to one or more narrowband light sources via an illumination unit 101 that includes, for example, multiple light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or a single light-emitting diode (LED) split into M × N portions using one or more light splitting means, in order to illuminate each optical fiber of the optical fiber 110.

[0048] As schematically shown in Figure 1C, COE150 is a 6x6 segment 1CS 11 ~1CS 66 It has each correction segment CS ij This is the respective beam B of the corresponding channel ij. ij To correct optical aberrations, it has different single customized wedges with embossing / etching / coating / shaping.

[0049] According to some embodiments, the COE150 includes at least the output end of each optical fiber and the corresponding collimating lens L of the lenslet array of a particular CBC system. ij It is designed to automatically correct aberrations caused by inaccuracies in the relative position with respect to the center, and / or inaccuracies in the alignment of surfaces within each element and / or with respect to each other, and / or inaccuracies in relative position (e.g., inaccuracies in the parallelism level of the input and output surfaces of the end cap element 120, misalignment between the end cap element 120 and the lenslet array 130, placement of one or more optical fibers 110 at the connection point to the input surface 121 of the end cap element 120, inaccuracies in the spacing between lenses of the lenslet array 130, etc.).

[0050] All channels 11-66 are simultaneously optically collimated and corrected.

[0051] As shown in Figures 1A and 1B, the end cap element 120, the lenslet array 130, and the COE 150 can be aligned with respect to the optical axis x such that the segmentation layout is positioned on a plane parallel to the yz plane perpendicular to the x-axis.

[0052] Here, we refer to Figures 2A and 2B, which show a coherent beam coupling (CBC) system 200 using COE250 according to another embodiment.

[0053] As shown in Figure 2A, the end cap elements are integrally coupled with the lenslet array to form a monolithic coupled lenslet array 220 connected (e.g., bonded) to the flat input surface 221 of the lenslet array 220, and the beam emitted from the optical fiber 110 is collimated by the lens-shaped bulge on the parallel output surface 222 on the opposite side of the lenslet array 220.

[0054] The input surface 251 of the COE250 faces the bulged output surface 222 of the lenslet array 220, and all beams emanating from the optical fiber 110 exit as a final combined and corrected output beam 205 (see Figure 2B) that exits from the flat output surface 252 of the COE250.

[0055] As shown in Figure 2B, the optical fibers of the optical fiber set 210 can be connected to one or more narrowband light sources via an illumination unit 201 which includes, for example, multiple light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or a single LED that is split into M × N portions using one or more light splitting means, in order to illuminate each optical fiber of the optical fiber set 210.

[0056] As schematically shown in Figure 1C, COE150 is a 6x6 segment 1CS 11 ~1CS 66 It has each correction segment CS ij This is the respective beam B of the corresponding channel ij. ij To correct optical aberrations, it features different, single, customized wedge embossing / etching / coating.

[0057] According to some embodiments, the embossing / etching of the wedge can be designed to diffract the incident beam in order to correct aberrations of the incident beam.

[0058] In the examples shown in Figures 1A-1C and 2A-2B, the segment correction embossing / etching of the COE 150 / 250 is located on the input surfaces 151 / 251 of the COE 150 / 250 facing the output surfaces 132 / 222 of the lenslet array 130 / 220. However, in other embodiments, the segment correction embossing / etching of the COE may be located on the output surface opposite to the COE, provided that the input surface of the COE facing the output surface of the lenslet array is flat.

[0059] As shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the combined lenslet arrays 220 and COE250 can be aligned with respect to the optical axis x such that the segmentation layout is positioned on a plane parallel to the yz plane perpendicular to the x-axis.

[0060] Herein, we refer to Figures 3A and 3B, which show a coherent beam coupling (CBC) system 300 using a COE350 integrated with a lenset array of the CBC system 300, according to several embodiments.

[0061] In this case, for example, a 6x6 optical fiber array 310, in which the first row of the array includes optical fibers 311, 312, 313, 314, 315, and 316, is connected to the input surface 321 of an end cap element 320, and the combined COE 350 has an input surface 351 facing the output surface 322 of the end cap element 320, and the input surface 351 of the COE has segment correction embossing / etching on it to correct the optical aberration of the beam coming out of the output surface 322 of the end cap element 320. The output surface 352 of the COE 350 is bulged to form a lenslet array for collimating the optical beam with segments. Thus, the COE 350 in this case combines optical aberration correction of the incident beam with collimation by the lens array to produce an optimally corrected and collimated combined output beam 305.

[0062] As shown in Figure 3B, the optical fiber 310 can be connected to one or more narrowband light sources via an illumination unit 301 that includes, for example, multiple light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or a single LED split into M × N portions using one or more optical splitting means, in order to illuminate each optical fiber of the optical fiber 310.

[0063] Refer to Figures 4A and 4B, which show a coherent beam coupling (CBC) system 400 using a combined COE 450, which is used as an end cap element, collimating lenslet array, and optical aberration corrector, all directly connected to the optical fiber array 410 at the input side / input surface 451 in a single monolithic element. The output surface 452 of the COE 450, from which the coupled optical beam 405 exits, has an embossed / coated / engraved bulge that acts as a lenslet array to couple the beam and enable segment correction of corresponding optical aberrations by segment correction at each lens (bulge). An illumination unit 401 may be used to controllably supply light to the optical fiber 410.

[0064] According to these embodiments, the input surface 451 of the COE 450 is flattened to allow for easy connection (splicing) of the output end of the optical fiber 410, and each lens-shaped bulge of the bulged output surface 452 has a customized corrective embossing / etching / coating to generate a high-beam-quality coupled output optical beam 405 in the FF.

[0065] According to some embodiments, any of the above examples of CBC systems, such as CBC system 100, 200, 300, or 400, also

[0066] Focusing means for focusing the combined output light beam,

[0067] A phase-synchronization means for simultaneously synchronizing the beam phases of all channels of an M×N optical fiber (e.g., by matching), It may include one or more of the following.

[0068] Here, we refer to Figure 5, which shows a flowchart illustrating a method for CBC using a customized correcting optical element according to several embodiments. This method includes at least,

[0069] Each optical fiber F ijEach output beam B emitted from ij Or one or more aberrations A of channel ij ij Step 51 to measure,

[0070] Each correction segment CS of the COE is manufactured for a specific CBC system. ij Regarding the specific CBC system and the specific position and positioning of the COE being manufactured, each correction segment CS ij Step 52 involves determining one or more correction designs necessary to correct all measured optical aberrations,

[0071] Step 53 involves manufacturing a COE having M x N segments for a specific CBC system (corresponding to M x N channels in a CBC system) by configuring each segment of the COE according to the correction design required for each,

[0072] Step 54 involves positioning the COE at a determined position for optimal aberration correction (for example, by optically aligning the COE with respect to the optical plane on which the output beam of the optical fiber propagates),

[0073] Step 55 involves using the COE to simultaneously correct the optical aberrations of all M×N beams / channels of the CBC system, It may include.

[0074] According to some embodiments, the aberration of each channel ij is measured in a measurement process that includes detecting the aberration for each channel, and the optical fiber F of each channel ij Each segment CS can be measured individually by operating the illumination to pass only through it (deactivating (turning off) the light passing through all other fibers). ij The segment correction can be calculated after measuring the aberrations of each channel or after measuring all channels.

[0075] In other embodiments, all or some of the channels are measured simultaneously for segment aberration detection.

[0076] Here, we refer to Figure 6, which shows a CBC system 600 for M×N channels using a customized COE. According to some embodiments, this CBC system 600 is further configured to synchronize / lock the phase and / or polarization.

[0077] This CBC system 600 is,

[0078] Light source 601 such as an LED light source,

[0079] An array of M x N optical fibers 610, including M x N optical fibers,

[0080] An optical splitting device 602 for splitting the light from the light source 601 into M × N individual input light beams (hereinafter referred to as "input beams"), directing each input beam into an individual optical fiber of the optical fiber 610 for its CBC, so that the multiple input beams exit the array of optical fibers 610 substantially parallel to each other and to the first optical axis x,

[0081] For example, light from the light source 601 is directed to the reference beam B via the end cap 604a and / or movable holder 604b located at its output end. ref A reference optical fiber 603 is used to deliver the reference beam B (the reference optical fiber 603 exits from which the reference beam B is optionally collimated by a collimator 605) and acts as a reference optical fiber 603 for delivery (the reference optical fiber 603 exits from which the reference beam B is optionally collimated by a collimator 605). ref However, reference beam B ref (Arranged to be guided along a propagation direction parallel to the optical axis y (e.g., perpendicular) which is substantially at an angle to axis x (e.g., perpendicular to the propagation direction of the input beam) such that it causes interference between the input beam and the M×N input beam),

[0082] For example, a synchronization subsystem 615 for synchronizing the phase and / or polarization of all M×N input beams, using an M×N set of phase shifters and / or polarizers to synchronize all channels simultaneously,

[0083] A coupled lenslet array (a lenslet array that is integrally coupled with the COE by having a corrective embossing / engraving on the output surface of each lens in the array) 650, which is optionally coupled with the COE by having a customized corrective etching or embossing on its output surface, (The coupled lenslet array 650 is arranged and configured to combine the input beams into a coupled output beam 609 and to simultaneously correct optical aberrations resulting from, for example, inaccuracies in the space between the vertices of the lenses of the lenslet array, the space between the optical fibers 610, and / or inaccuracies in the angular relationship between the input beams output by the optical fibers 610, which affect, for example, the accuracy of parallelism.)

[0084] A beam splitter 607 is positioned in the path of the combined output beam 609 and configured to split the combined output beam 609 into two beams propagating in an angular direction (e.g., perpendicularly), (The first portion of the combined output beam 609 is guided parallel to its original propagation direction along the x-axis, and the second portion is guided by the reference beam B) ref A sample light beam (also referred to herein as the "sample beam") passing parallel to B samp It is guided at an angle to the original propagation direction so that it acts as a signal, and reference beam B ref and sample beam B samp (The optical interference generates an interference optical signal, which can be divided into M×N segments, and the segments can be dealt with by detecting the optical properties such as the intensity of each segment ij.)

[0085] To further improve the quality of the FF beam and the performance of the CBC System 600 by enabling feedback loop-based phase / polarization locking, each interfering optical signal OIS of each segment ij An array of M×N photodetectors 640, arranged and configured to detect optical properties such as intensity, power, and amplitude,

[0086] A processing and control subsystem 670 is operably associated with the synchronization subsystem 615 and the M×N photodetectors 640, receives output data / signals from all photodetectors 640, simultaneously adjusts the phase / polarization of each channel ij, and synchronizes the phase / polarization of all M×N channels in real time based on the analysis of the received detector output data. Includes.

[0087] According to some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6, the CBC system 600 may further include collimating and / or focusing means, such as a collimator 605 configured and positioned to collimate the reference beam output by the reference optical fiber 603, and / or a collimator or focusing lens 608 configured and positioned to collimate / focus the coupled and outputted output beam 609.

[0088] According to some embodiments, as shown in Figure 6, the CBC system 600 further includes a sampling beam B samp The array may include an M×N focusing lens array 630 for focusing light into segments onto each photodetector 640.

[0089] According to some embodiments, the CBC system 600 may further include one or more end capping elements, such as an end capping element 620 that can be connected to the output end of the optical fiber 610.

[0090] According to some embodiments, the CBC system 600 can be used to measure the unique optical aberrations of each channel using the same system configuration as shown in Figure 6, for example, before the coupled lenslet array 650 is embossed / etched to also act as a COE, or before a separate COE is added, so that the optical aberrations of each channel can be determined and based on that, the segment correction design required for each channel ij can be determined. Once the required corrections for each segment are determined and the segment configuration design is generated / calculated, the correction segments can be etched / embossed on the lenslet array or on a separate component (e.g., a silicon piece) to manufacture a separate COE.

[0091] One or more optical aberrations OA in each channel ij ij To measure this, the processing and control subsystem 670 can be configured to analyze the output data received from the M×N photodetector 640 to detect optical aberration characteristics such as the type of each channel ij, parameter values ​​of one or more associated characteristics, and position, and to generate a COE configuration design, including the embossing / etching / coating design for each segment of the COE to be manufactured, based on the analysis results (including the determined characteristics of each optical aberration in each channel ij). The COE configuration design may include, for example, a set of manufacturing instructions for any one or more manufacturing machines (e.g., for automated manufacturing), and data showing a geometric model.

[0092] Furthermore, or alternatively, to measure the optical aberrations of each channel ij, the characteristics of the FF image of the combined output beam 609 can be detected and analyzed using, for example, a segmented, pixelated, or any other type of optical FF detector 680 configured to measure one or more features of the combined output beam 609.

[0093] For example, the output data from the FF detector 680 can be used in combination with detector data from the array of photodetectors 640 to determine the sensitivity level of the FF for each optical aberration in each channel. Another reasonable approach may be to use wavefront sensing devices such as curvature sensors or Shack-Hartmann sensors or detection systems to determine the type of optical aberration, or to distinguish between different types of aberrations, characteristics, and their causes, if desired.

[0094] According to some embodiments, the COE itself for each CBC system may be manufactured using one or more techniques such as embossing, carving, sputtering, evaporation, engraving, printing, nanolithography, and ion beam deposition.

[0095] To manufacture the COE, and to form the wedges of each segment of the COE (for example, by nano-etching a thin layer of anti-reflective (AR) coating on the surface of the silicon element), one or more devices, machines, and / or systems such as three-dimensional (3D) printers, sputtering, coating, and machines / devices for deposition / nano-etching may be used.

[0096] According to some embodiments, the method for designing a COE for a manufactured CBC system may be carried out by using a standard CBC system (used to measure optical aberrations for manufacturing a COE for other CBC systems used as a "CBC system model") rather than measuring specific aberrations of a particular CBC system to custom fit a COE, depending on how large the aberrations between CBC systems differ, mainly due to misalignment / position between each optical fiber in the CBC system and the lens to which it is connected / joined, misalignment of the lenslet array relative to other optical elements of the CBC system, and the effects of manufacturing errors and defects of optical elements such as the lenslet array and focusing elements. In some cases, differences in optical aberrations of a particular CBC system may necessitate only customized COE design and manufacturing, enabling high system performance such as high FF beam quality (e.g., less beam waste and high spatial coherence).

[0097] Herein, we refer to Figure 7 schematically illustrating a detection system for detecting aberrations in each channel ij of a CBC system to determine the necessary corrections for each channel of the CBC system, according to some embodiments. This detection system may include components of the CBC system used later for the CBC, such as an array 110 of M×N optical fibers connected to an end cap element 120, and a separate lenslet array 130 similar to the elements / components described in Figure 1A. Each channel ij can be measured individually by a wavefront analyzer (WFA) subsystem 70 associated with one or more computing devices, such as a computing device 75, for detecting all aberrations in each channel ij and calculating (determining) the correction design for each ij segment.

[0098] For example, to detect aberrations in channel 11 or channel 41, collimating lens 1L 11 or 1L 41 Fiber F output from 11 or F 41The light is detected (for example, simultaneously or one at a time). The WFA subsystem 70 detects each of the collimating lenses 1L of the lenslet array 130. 11 or 1L 41 To enable segment detection of the optical properties of the wavefront output, a photodetector (such as a pixelated charge-coupled device (CCD) or an array of photodiodes) may be included, or a detection means of a CBC system that receives data from there may be used. Aberrations are likely to have different characteristics for each segment / channel, and therefore different aberration correction designs will be required, as shown in Figure 7, where channel 11 is 1CS 11 The correction design shown is required, and channel 41 is 1CS 41 This illustrates the need for different correction designs as shown.

[0099] By detecting the wavefront characteristics of each channel (for example, by transmitting light through only the channel being measured at one time), corrections for the relevant segments of the channel can be calculated or designed using a three-dimensional (3D) mirror image (where the wavefront distributions are identical but facing opposite directions), which may include a 3D wavefront correction model.

[0100] According to some embodiments, in order to mirror the wavefront in the correct ratio (with respect to the size of each segment), the positioning of the photodetector (e.g., a CCD camera or an array of M×N photodiodes) may require that their positioning be performed with the same alignment and distance with respect to the position of the COE being manufactured, or the design of the COE segments may also correspond to a desired alignment and positioning distance of the COE relative to the lenslet array 130.

[0101] Once the correction designs for all segments of each COE to be manufactured for a specific CBC system are determined (for example, by storing its 3D model in a computer storage unit), the COE segments can be manufactured (for example, using an ion beam deposition process).

[0102] Figure 8 shows a diagram of a 3x3 correction segment curved or embossed on the surface of a correction optical element according to several embodiments.

[0103] Here, refer to Figures 9A to 11B, which show wavefront imaging images without different aberrations and wavefront imaging images in which different types of aberrations are detected.

[0104] Figures 9A and 9B show single-channel measurement images collimated by one lenslet of the CBC lenslet array, with Figure 9A showing a segment without aberrations and Figure 9B showing angular indication error aberrations.

[0105] Figures 10A and 10B show single-channel measurement images collimated by one lenslet of the CBC lenslet array. Figure 10A shows a segment without aberration, while Figure 10B shows the defocus aberration resulting from inaccuracies in the radius of curvature of a particular lens in a particular channel.

[0106] Figures 11A and 11B show single-channel measurement images collimated by one lenslet of the CBC lenslet array. Figure 11A shows a segment without aberrations, while Figure 11B shows aberrations caused by inaccuracies in the fiber-lens connection (e.g., off-axis splicing of the fiber-lens in channels, which can result in coma and other wavefront aberrations).

[0107] example

[0108] Example 1 is a corrective optical element (COE) for a multi-channel coherent beam coupling (CBC) system, using at least M×N optical fibers and an M×N collimated lenslet array for coherently coupling M×N optical beams transmitted through the M×N optical fibers, having M×N corrective segments, which are custom-manufactured to correct the optical aberrations of a particular single CBC system by segment, with each corrective segment CS ij For example, to correct the optical aberrations of all segments of the M×N of the CBC system, the corresponding output beam B is output from each channel "ij" of the M×N channels of the CBC system. ij The position and configuration are customized to correct one or more specific pre-measured optical aberrations, and the COE has customized at least the output end of each optical fiber and the corresponding collimating lens L of the lenslet array of a specific CBC system. ij This COE is configured to correct optical aberrations caused by inaccuracies in the relative position between the center and the segments, and is characterized in that the correction of optical aberrations in all M×N segments is performed optically and simultaneously by the COE.

[0109] In Example 2, the subject of Example 1 is that the COE is each output light beam B ij This may include being configured to correct in segments one or more of the following optical aberrations: indication error, focus / collimation error, wavefront aberration, higher-order three-dimensional aberration, spatial distribution error, coma aberration, field curvature aberration, cylindrical aberration, and smile error.

[0110] In Example 3, the subject matter described in any one or more of Examples 1 to 2 may include the shaping of the COE segments on at least one side of the COE by using one or more of the following: embossing, bending, sputtering, engraving, printing, evaporation, and ion beam deposition.

[0111] In Example 4, for any subject described in one or more of Examples 1 to 3, the COE will have the corresponding optical beam B of each channel ij.ij To correct the aberrations of each segment, each segment CS ij This may include being manufactured from customized monolithic parts so that they have different custom shapes.

[0112] In Example 5, the subject described in one or more of Examples 1 through 4 is such that each segment of the COE has its respective output light beam B ij This may include comprising one or more wedges configured to correct the optical aberrations of the optical aberrations through diffraction.

[0113] In Example 6, the subject matter described in one or more of Examples 1 to 5 may further be designed for a CBC system in which the optical fiber is connected to the input surface of an end cap element.

[0114] In Example 7, the subject of Example 6 may include the COE being integrally connected or configured on the output surface of the lenslet array, the output curvature surface comprising an M×N lens-shaped curvature bulge, each bulge having a custom-designed corrective embossing or etching such that each of the M×N light beams exiting the output surface of the end cap element is collimated and corrected by the COE.

[0115] In Example 8, the subject matter described in any one or more of Examples 6 to 7 may include the COE being connected integrally or disintegrally to the input surface of the lenslet array, the lenslet bulge of the lenslet array forming the output surface of the COE, and the custom-shaped correction segment being located on the input surface of the COE facing the output surface of the end cap element.

[0116] In Example 9, the subject matter described in any one or more of Examples 6 to 7 may include the COE being incorporated into the lenslet array and endcap element of a CBC system to form a single monolithic coherent beam coupling, end-capping, and correcting element by having an output surface of an end-cap element integrally connected to the input surface of a lenslet array, and an output surface of a lenslet array having a corrective 3D design embossed or debossed thereon to perform a combination of collimation and aberration correction in customized segments of each optical beam.

[0117] In Example 10, the subject matter described in one or more of Examples 1 through 9 may include the configuration in which the optical fiber of the CBC system guides light with a bandwidth in the range of 0.4 to 2.5 μm.

[0118] In Example 11, the subject matter described in one or more of Examples 1 through 10 may include the COE being incorporated as part of a particular CBC system.

[0119] In Example 12, the subject matter described in one or more of Examples 1 to 11 may include the configuration of the COE to correct aberrations in a multi-channel CBC system using M×N high-power fiber lasers or fiber amplifiers.

[0120] Example 13 is a method for manufacturing a corrective optical element (COE) for a multi-channel coherent beam coupling (CBC) system having M×N channels, using M×N optical fibers, an end cap element connected to the M×N optical fiber at the input side, and an M×N collimated lenslet array for coherently coupling the M×N optical beam output by the end cap element, the method being:

[0121] Each optical fiber F ij Each lens L of the lenslet array connected ij Each output optical beam B of each corresponding channel ij is output from ijBased on the measurement of the wavefront characteristics, one or more optical aberrations A of each channel ij of the M×N channels of the CBC system ij Measuring and

[0122] Each COE segment CS produced ij Regarding the specific CBC system and the specific position and positioning of the COE being manufactured, each correction segment CS ij To determine the correction design necessary to correct all measured optical aberrations,

[0123] By configuring each segment of the COE according to the necessary correction design for each, a COE having M x N segments is manufactured.

[0124] COE's correction segments CS ij Output light beam B ij To position the COE in the optimal location for optimal aberration correction, and

[0125] To simultaneously correct the optical aberrations of all M×N segments of the CBC system, the COE is used, Includes,

[0126] The COE is the output end of each optical fiber and the corresponding collimated lenslet L of the lenslet array of a specific CBC system. ij The segment is configured to correct optical aberrations that affect coherent beam coupling performance, caused by inaccuracies in the relative position between the center and the segment. It is a method.

[0127] In Example 14, the subject of Example 13 is that the COE uses each output light beam B ij This may include being configured to correct in segments one or more of the following optical aberrations: indication error, focus / collimation error, wavefront aberration, higher-order three-dimensional aberration, spatial distribution error, coma aberration, field curvature aberration, cylindrical aberration, and smile error.

[0128] In Example 15, the subject matter described in any one or more of Examples 13 to 14 is the output beam B measured to obtain one or more aberrations respectively, and each of which is from each optical fiber F ij and is guided through the end cap element to each lenslet L of the lenslet array, whereby the measurement of the optical aberration of each channel ij may be performed on the aberration detected from the segment of the collimated output beam exiting the lenslet array of the CBC system. ij through the end cap element to each lenslet L of the lenslet array, whereby the measurement of the optical aberration of each channel ij may be performed on the aberration detected from the segment of the collimated output beam exiting the lenslet array of the CBC system. ij through the end cap element to each lenslet L of the lenslet array, whereby the measurement of the optical aberration of each channel ij may be performed on the aberration detected from the segment of the collimated output beam exiting the lenslet array of the CBC system.

[0129] In Example 16, the subject matter described in any one or more of Examples 13 to 14 is the output beam B measured to obtain one or more aberrations respectively, and each of which is from each optical fiber F ij and is guided through the end cap element towards the correction input surface of the COE, and the lenslet region may include being formed as the output surface of the COE. ij and is guided through the end cap element towards the correction input surface of the COE, and the lenslet region may include being formed as the output surface of the COE.

[0130] In Example 17, the subject matter described in any one or more of Examples 13 to 16 may further include using one or more optical splitting elements to guide the light emitted from a single light source to M×N optical fibers.

[0131] In Example 18, the subject matter described in any one or more of Examples 13 to 17, for all M×N channels of the CBC system, one or more aberrations of each channel ij may be measured simultaneously or individually for each channel using one or more photodetectors and a processing and control unit configured to receive and analyze the output data output by the one or more photodetectors to determine the correction required for each channel ij of the CBC system.

[0132] In Example 19, the subject of Example 18 may include one or more photodetectors comprising one or more of the following: a camera, a charge-coupled device (CCD), an M×N photodiode or photodetector, and M×N photodetectors coupled to different focusing lenses or lenslets, respectively, for individually measuring optical properties including one or more optical aberrations of each channel ij.

[0133] In Example 20, the subject matter described in any one or more of Examples 13 to 19 may include locating the COE by optically aligning the COE with respect to the optical plane through which the output beam of the optical fiber propagates.

[0134] In Example 21, the subject matter described in one or more of Examples 18 to 20 is included in each corrected segment CS. ij The design uses one or more photodetectors for each beam B ij Measure one or more wavefront characteristics, and correct the channel ij of each channel CS based on the measured wavefront characteristics. ij This may include being determined by generating a three-dimensional model of it.

[0135] In Example 21, the subject of Example 21 is each correction segment CS ij The 3D design is for the beam B of the corresponding channel ij. ij This may include being a 3D mirror image of the wavefront.

[0136] Example 23 is a system for coherent beam coupling (CBC), and at least,

[0137] At least one light source for emitting light in a narrow wavelength band,

[0138] An M×N optical fiber configured to guide light emitted from at least one light source,

[0139] An M×N collimated lenslet array for coherently coupling M×N optical beams from M×N optical fibers,

[0140] A correction optical element (COE) customized to correct optical aberrations in segments of a particular single CBC system, including, wherein the COE comprises M×N correction segments, and each correction segment CS ij is customized in position and configuration to correct one or more specific pre-measured optical aberrations of the corresponding output beam B ij emitted from the corresponding optical fiber F ij of each ij channel,

[0141] The COE is configured to correct, in segments, optical aberrations that affect coherent beam combining performance caused by inaccuracies in the relative position between the output end of each optical fiber and the center of the corresponding collimating lens L ij of the lenslet array of a particular CBC system,

[0142] Correction of all aberrations of all segments is performed optically simultaneously, a CBC system.

[0143] In Example 24, the subject matter of Example 23 further includes that the CBC system may further comprise an end cap element connected to the output ends of the M×N optical fibers at its input surface such that the optical beams emerging from each optical fiber F ij exit from different segments of the output surface of the end cap element.

[0144] In Example 25, the subject matter described in any one or more of Examples 23 to 24 is that the CBC system comprises at least

[0145] one or more photodetectors arranged and configured to detect the optical characteristics of the coherently combined output beam, which is combined by the lenslet array and corrected by the COE,

[0146] A processing and control subsystem (PCS) configured to receive data from one or more photodetectors and analyze the received data to measure the performance characteristics of one or more CBC systems, This may include further provision of such features.

[0147] In Example 26, the subject of Example 25 may further include a synchronization module for synchronizing the phase and / or polarization of each channel ij such that all phases and / or polarizations of all M×N channels are synchronized, using a phase synchronization module and / or an array of polarization synchronization modules including an array of M×N polarization controllers, which include a corresponding M×N phase shifter.

[0148] In Example 27, the subject matter described in one or more of Examples 23 to 26 is such that the COE has each output light beam B ij This may include being configured to correct in segments one or more of the following optical aberrations: indication error, focus / collimation error, wavefront aberration, higher-order three-dimensional aberration, spatial distribution error, coma aberration, field curvature aberration, cylindrical aberration, and smile error.

[0149] In Example 28, the subject matter described in any one or more of Examples 23 to 27 may include shaping the COE segments on at least one side of the COE by using one or more of the following: embossing, bending, sputtering, evaporation, engraving, printing, and ion beam deposition.

[0150] In Example 29, for any subject described in one or more of Examples 23 to 27, the COE is the corresponding optical beam B of each channel ij. ij To correct the aberrations of each segment, each segment CS ij This may include being manufactured from customized monolithic parts so that they have different custom shapes.

[0151] In Example 30, the subject matter described in one or more of Examples 23 to 29 is such that each segment of the COE has its respective output light beam B ij This may include comprising one or more wedges configured to correct the optical aberrations of the optical aberrations through diffraction.

[0152] In Example 31, the subject matter described in one or more of Examples 23 to 30 may include a COE integrally connected to or configured on the output surface of a lenslet array, wherein the output curvature surface comprises an M×N lens-shaped curvature bulge, each bulge having a custom-designed correction appendage such that each of the M×N light beams exiting the output surface of the end cap element is collimated and corrected by the COE.

[0153] In Example 32, the subject matter described in any one or more of Examples 23 to 31 may include the COE being connected integrally or disintegrally to the input surface of the lenslet array, the lenslet bulge of the lenslet array forming the output surface of the COE, and a custom-shaped correction segment being positioned on the input surface of the COE facing the output surface of the end cap element.

[0154] In Example 33, the subject matter described in any one or more of Examples 23 to 32 may include the COE being incorporated into the lenslet array and endcap element of a CBC system to form a single monolithic coherent beam coupling, end-capping, and correcting element by having an output surface of an end-cap element integrally connected to the input surface of a lenslet array, and an output surface of a lenslet array having a corrective 3D design embossed or debossed thereon to perform a combination of collimation and aberration correction in customized segments of each optical beam.

[0155] In Example 34, the subject matter described in any one or more of Examples 23 to 33 may include the configuration in which the optical fiber of the CBC system guides light with a bandwidth in the range of 0.4 to 2.5 μm.

[0156] In Example 35, the subject matter described in any one or more of Examples 23 to 34 may include the configuration of the COE to correct aberrations in a multi-channel CBC system using an M×N high-power fiber laser or fiber amplifier.

[0157] While the above description discloses a limited number of exemplary embodiments of the present invention, these embodiments should not impose any limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather should be considered as examples of some ways in which the invention can be implemented.

[0158] The methods and / or processes described herein may be implemented by any one or more software and / or hardware, component devices, devices, mechanisms, electronic and / or digital computerized systems, units, processing modules, devices, machines, engines, etc.

[0159] A system, module, unit, device, or part thereof can be programmed to perform a specific function according to computer-readable and executable instructions, rules, conditions, etc., from a programmable hardware and / or software-based executable module that can implement one or more methods or processes disclosed herein, and can therefore be considered to disclose a “dedicated computer” specific to each embodiment of the disclosed method / process.

[0160] Furthermore, or alternatively, the methods and / or processes disclosed herein can be implemented as computer programs that can be embodied tangibly or intangibly by a computer-readable signal medium. The computer-readable signal medium may include propagated data signals having computer-readable program code embodied therein, for example, in the baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such propagated signals may take any of a variety of forms, including but not limited to electromagnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. The computer-readable signal medium may be any computer-readable medium that is not a non-temporary computer or machine-readable storage device, capable of communicating, propagating, or transferring programs for use by or in connection with the devices, systems, platforms, methods, operations, and / or processes described herein.

[0161] The terms “non-temporary computer-readable storage” and “non-temporary machine-readable storage” may also include distribution media, intermediate storage media, computer running memory, and any other media or devices that can be stored for later retrieval by a computer program implementing embodiments of the methods disclosed herein. A computer program product may be arranged to run on one or more computers at one site, or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected by one or more communication networks.

[0162] Computer-readable and executable instructions can also be loaded into a computer, other programmable data processing device, or other device, causing a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable device, or other device, thereby generating a process performed on the computer, so that the instructions performed on the computer, other programmable device, or other device perform the functions / operations specified in one or more blocks of a flowchart and / or block diagram.

[0163] Modules, devices, mechanisms, units, and / or subsystems may each comprise instructions (e.g., commands) executable on one or more machines. Modules may be embodied by circuits or controllers programmed to cause a system to perform the methods, processes, and / or operations disclosed herein. For example, a module may be implemented as a hardware circuit comprising off-the-shelf semiconductors such as, for example, custom very large-scale integrated circuits (VLSI) circuits or gate arrays, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), logic chips, transistors, and / or other individual components. Modules may also be implemented as programmable hardware devices such as field-programmable gate arrays, programmable array logic, and programmable logic devices.

[0164] In the above disclosure, unless otherwise specified, terms such as “substantially,” “about,” and “approximately” that characterize one or more features of the embodiments of the invention should be understood to mean that the conditions or characteristics are defined within an acceptable range for the operation of the embodiments relating to the intended use.

[0165] It is important to note that the methods / processes and / or systems / devices / subsystems / apparatus, etc. disclosed in the above specification are not strictly limited to the flowcharts and / or diagrams provided in the drawings. For example, a method may include more or fewer processes or steps than those shown in the drawings. Furthermore, embodiments of a method are not necessarily limited to the chronological order illustrated and described herein.

[0166] Please note that terms such as “process,” “compute,” “calculate,” “decide,” “establish,” “analyze,” “check,” “estimate,” “derive,” “select,” “infer,” “identify,” and “detect” may refer to the operation and / or process of a computer, computing platform, computing system, or other electronic computing device that manipulates and / or converts data, which is represented as physical quantities (e.g., electronic or optical signals) in computer registers and / or memory, into other data, which is similarly represented as physical quantities in computer registers and / or memory or other information storage media capable of storing instructions for performing an operation and / or process.

[0167] Terms used in the singular form also include the plural form unless explicitly stated otherwise or the context requires otherwise.

[0168] In the specification and claims of this application, the verbs “equip,” “include,” and “have,” and their conjugations, are used to indicate that one or more objects of a verb are not necessarily a complete list of components, elements, or parts of one or more subjects of a verb.

[0169] Unless otherwise specified, the use of the expression "and / or" between at least two members of a list of choices indicates that one or more of the listed choices are appropriate, that is, all possible combinations of one or more of the specified choices are possible. Furthermore, the use of the expression "and / or" is interchangeable with the expressions "at least one of the following," "any one of the following," or "one or more of the following," followed by a list of various choices.

[0170] For clarity, certain features of the Invention described in relation to separate embodiments or examples may be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the Invention described in relation to a single embodiment, example, and / or alternative for brevity may also be provided separately, in any suitable combination of sub-sub

[0171] It should be noted that the terms “in some embodiments,” “according to some embodiments,” “according to some embodiments of the present invention,” “for example,” “as an example,” and “optionally” may be used interchangeably in this specification.

[0172] The number of elements shown in the drawings should not be interpreted as limiting, but rather as illustrative examples only.

[0173] It should be noted that the term “operable to” may encompass the meaning of the term “modified or configured to.” In other words, a machine “operable to” perform a task may, in some embodiments, encompass merely the ability to perform that function (e.g., “modified”), and in some other embodiments, encompass a machine that is actually manufactured to perform that function (e.g., “configured”).

[0174] The phrase “range” from the first display number to the second display number and the phrase “range” from the first display number to the second display number are interchangeable in this specification and mean the first display number and the second display number, and all decimals and integers between them.

Claims

1. A corrective optical element (COE) for a specific multi-channel coherent beam coupling (CBC) system, the CBC system using a fiber array comprising a plurality of optical fibers and a single collimation array comprising a plurality of collimating lenses, each configured for collimating the input optical beams output from each optical fiber, for coherent coupling of the corresponding array of optical beams passing through the fiber array. Each pair of collimating lenses of the collimation array and corresponding optical fibers of the fiber array defines a channel (ij), the COE includes at least an array of correction segments, and each correction segment (CSij) within the array of correction segments of the COE is customized in position and configuration to correct one or more optical aberrations of the corresponding output light beam (Bij) output from the corresponding collimating lens (Lij). The COE is configured to perform customized and segmented correction of far-field optical aberrations caused by at least misalignment between the output end of each corresponding optical fiber (Fij) and the center of the corresponding collimating lens (Lij). The COE is integrally connected to or configured on the output surface of the collimation array. The bulge of the collimating lens of the collimation array forms the output surface of the COE. The bulge forming the output surface of the COE is provided with embossing, coating, or engraving that improves the far-field performance of the CBC system by correcting the optical aberrations of the far field caused by the misalignment. The correction optical element (COE) is characterized in that the correction segment (CSij) is configured as a diffraction element.

2. The COE according to claim 1, wherein the COE is configured to segment-correct one or more optical aberrations among indication error, focus / collimation error, wavefront aberration, higher-order three-dimensional aberration, spatial distribution error, coma aberration, field curvature aberration, cylindrical aberration, smile error, manufacturing error, and space error between collimating lenses of the collimation array for each output light beam (Bij).

3. The COE according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the COE is fabricated from a customized monolithic component such that each of its correction segments (CSij) has a different custom shape to correct one or more aberrations of the corresponding output light beam (Bij) of each of the channels (ij).

4. The COE according to claim 1 or 2, wherein in the CBC system, each optical fiber is connected to the input surface of the corresponding portion of the end cap element.

5. The COE according to claim 4, wherein the COE is incorporated into the collimation array and the end cap element of the CBC system, forming a single monolithic coherent beam coupling, end capping, and correction element, by having an output surface of the end cap element integrally connected to the input surface of the collimation array and the output surface of the collimation array having a correction 3D design embossed or debossed thereon to perform a combination of collimation and aberration correction on customized segments of each light beam.

6. A method for manufacturing a corrective optical element (COE) for a particular multi-channel coherent beam coupling (CBC) system having an array of channels, comprising: a fiber array which is an array of optical fibers; and a collimation array which includes a plurality of collimating lenses configured for collimating the input optical beams, for coherently coupling the array of input optical beams output by end cap elements, the optical element (COE) for a particular multi-channel coherent beam coupling (CBC) system having an array of channels, (a) For each channel (ij) of the CBC system, The wavefront of each output light beam (Bij) emitted from each optical fiber (Fij) of the fiber array and output from each collimator (Cij) of the collimation array is measured. To generate a three-dimensional (3D) model of the correction segment (CSij) for each channel (ij), (b) Manufacturing the COE having an array of correction segments by configuring each segment of the COE according to the generated 3D model, (c) Position the COE at a location determined for optimal aberration correction, such that each correction segment (CSij) of the COE is positioned at a desired location relative to the corresponding output light beam (Bij), (d) Using the COE, simultaneously correct the optical aberrations of at least a portion of the output light beam of the CBC system, The COE is configured to perform customized and segmented correction of far-field optical aberrations caused by misalignment between the output end of each optical fiber and the center of the corresponding collimating lens (Lij) in the collimation array of the CBC system. The COE is integrally connected to or configured on the output surface of the collimation array. The bulge of the collimating lens of the collimation array forms the output surface of the COE. The bulge forming the output surface of the COE is provided with embossing, coating, or engraving to correct the optical aberrations of the far field caused by the misalignment, thereby improving the far-field performance of the CBC system. Each correction segment (CSij) is configured as a diffraction element in this method.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the COE is configured to correct, segment by segment, one or more optical aberrations from among indication error, focus / collimation error, wavefront aberration, higher-order three-dimensional aberration, spatial distribution error, coma aberration, field curvature aberration, cylindrical aberration, smile error, manufacturing error, and space error between collimating lenses in the collimation array for each output light beam (Bij).

8. The method according to claim 6 or 7, further comprising the step of guiding light emitted from a single light source to the fiber array using one or more optical splitting elements.

9. The method according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the 3D model is determined by using a processing and control unit configured to measure each wavefront of the output light beam (Bij) of each channel (ij) using one or more photodetectors, and to acquire and analyze output data output from the one or more photodetectors.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein the one or more photodetectors include one or more M × N photodetectors, each connected to a different focusing lens or lenslet, for individually measuring optical properties including a camera, a charge-coupled element (CCD), a photodiode or array of photodetectors, or one or more optical aberrations of each channel (ij).

11. The method according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the COE is configured to be arranged parallel to the collimation array.

12. A CBC system for coherent beam coupling (CBC), - At least one light source that emits narrowband light, -A fiber array which is an array of optical fibers configured to guide light emitted from at least one light source and form an array of input light beams, - comprising at least a collimation array which is an array of collimating lenses, Each collimating lens is configured to collide only the incident light beam. -The CBC system further comprises a corrective optical element (COE) customized for segment correction of optical aberrations and comprising an array of corrective segments, The correction segment (CSij) is configured as a diffraction element, The COE is configured to perform customized and segmented correction of far-field optical aberrations caused by at least misalignment between the output end of each optical fiber and the center of the corresponding collimating lens (Lij) of the collimation array in the CBC system. The COE is integrally connected to or configured on the output surface of the collimation array. The bulge of the collimating lens of the collimation array forms the output surface of the COE. A CBC system comprising an embossing, coating, or engraving on the bulge forming the output surface of the COE, which improves the far-field performance of the CBC system by correcting the optical aberration of the far field caused by at least the misalignment.

13. One or more photodetectors configured to detect the optical properties of a coherently coupled output beam, which is coupled by the collimation array and corrected by the COE, A processing and control subsystem (PCS) configured to acquire output data from one or more photodetectors, analyze the acquired output data, and measure one or more performance characteristics of the CBC system, The CBC system according to claim 12, further comprising the above.

14. The CBC system according to claim 13, further comprising a synchronization module for synchronizing the phase and / or polarization of each channel (ij), configured such that all phases and / or polarizations of all channels are synchronized, wherein the synchronization module comprises a phase synchronization module for phase synchronization and / or a polarization synchronization module for polarization synchronization.

15. The CBC system according to claim 13 or 14, wherein each wavefront of each output light beam (Bij) of each channel (ij) is measured using one or more photodetectors.

16. The COE included in the CBC system according to claim 13 or 14, Each wavefront of each output light beam (Bij) of each channel (ij) is measured using one or more photodetectors. A COE characterized by the following features.

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