Dual-Output Laser Light Source With Split Spectral Paths

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing broad-band high-brightness light sources lack multiple outputs with different spectral characteristics and are limited in performance and functionality, particularly in generating light across the 170 nm to 2.1 micron spectrum range.

Innovation Solution

A dual-output light source system utilizing a laser-driven thermal plasma and off-axis conical mirrors to generate and filter light into two separate optical paths with distinct spectral properties, allowing for dual outputs with different optical filters and apertures.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single-output light source configuration is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability and versatility are limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional versatilityVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the single light source into multiple output channels by segmenting the optical path. Two separate off-axis conical mirrors are used to create distinct optical paths, each with its own filtering system, enabling the same plasma source to provide multiple specialized outputs simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling a single plasma light source to serve multiple purposes through different output channels. Each channel can be independently configured with different spectral filters to meet different application requirements, making the system universally applicable to various industrial needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Illumination intensity

If broad-band light generation is implemented, then the spectral range is expanded, but the brightness at specific wavelengths is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovebrightnessVSAvoidspectral range

Core Design Contradiction:

Illumination intensityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The broad spectrum is segmented into different wavelength ranges using optical filters in each channel. This allows the system to maintain broad spectral coverage while concentrating brightness in specific wavelength bands at each output, resolving the trade-off between broad coverage and peak intensity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Each output channel is given local quality through wavelength-specific filtering. The first channel may be optimized for UV applications while the second for visible or IR applications, allowing each channel to have high brightness at its designated wavelengths while the overall system maintains broad spectral range.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables high-brightness light generation across a broad spectrum range with flexible output configurations, meeting the needs of various industrial applications requiring multiple spectral properties.

Implementation Method 1

A laser-driven light source generates broad-band high-brightness light from a thermal plasma

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal plasma: Plasma

Implementation Method 2

A first and second off-axis conical mirror are positioned within the at least 180 degrees of emission of the thermal plasma so that light generated by the plasma propagating from a first region of emission strikes a first focal point of the first off-axis conical mirror and light generated by the plasma propagating from a second region of emission strikes a first focal point of the second off-axis conical mirror. The first and second off-axis conical mirrors reflect light in a respective first and second optical path.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectReflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 3

A first optical filter with a first filter function is positioned in the first optical path so that light is passed with a first optical spectrum to a first output that is positioned at a second focal point of the first off-axis conical mirror. Similarly, a second optical filter is positioned in the second optical path so that light is passed with a second optical spectrum to a second output that is positioned at a second focal point of the second off-axis conical mirror.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectOptical filtering: Filter (optical)

Data Source

PatentUS12578076B2Dual-output laser-driven light source

Publication Date: 2026.03.17 HAMAMATSU PHOTONICS KK

AI summary

A dual-output light source includes a laser-driven light source that generates light from a thermal plasma over an angular range of emission of at least 180 degrees. A first and second off-axis conical mirror are positioned within the at least 180 degrees of emission of the thermal plasma so that light generated by the plasma propagating from a first region of emission strikes a first focal point of the first off-axis conical mirror and light generated by the plasma propagating from a second region of emission strikes a first focal point of the second off-axis conical mirror. The first and second off-axis conical mirrors reflect light in a respective and first and second optical paths. A first optical filter having a first bandwidth is positioned in the first optical path. A second optical filter having a second bandwidth is positioned in the second optical path.