Monolithic Multispectral Laser Beam Combining Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current laser systems are unable to effectively combine multiple multi-band beams to form a multi-broadband laser output in a non-free space medium, limiting their power and spectral capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A multi-broadband beam non-free space combiner is developed, comprising beam combining modules with external facets, optical modifying surfaces, and dichroic combiners, which receive and combine input optical beams, allowing for the creation of a multi-band beam output entirely within a non-free space medium using materials like solid glass and semiconductor lasing sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional free-space beam combining methods are used, then multi-wavelength output can be achieved, but the system cannot effectively combine multiple multi-band beams to form a multi-broadband laser output in a non-free space medium
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the beam combining function into multiple discrete modules, each handling specific wavelength bands. Each module contains dedicated optical elements (diffraction gratings, dichroic mirrors, waveguides) that process particular spectral ranges, allowing independent optimization and reliable combination of multiple multi-band beams without requiring the entire system to operate in free space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces non-free space optical elements (waveguides, integrated photonic circuits, solid-state optical components) as intermediaries to replace conventional free-space optical paths. These intermediary structures enable beam combination within a confined medium, bridging the gap between multiple laser sources and the final multi-broadband output while maintaining control over beam propagation and combination.
2Illumination intensity
If multiple multi-band beams are combined to form multi-broadband output, then spectral brightness and power scaling are enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple beam combining functions into integrated optical modules where diffraction gratings, dichroic mirrors, and waveguides are combined into unified structures. This merging reduces the number of discrete components and interfaces while achieving the same spectral brightness enhancement, thereby managing device complexity through functional integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical modules are designed with multi-functional elements that perform multiple operations simultaneously. For example, diffraction gratings serve both wavelength separation and beam steering functions, while dichroic mirrors handle both reflection and transmission of specific bands. This multi-functionality reduces the overall component count and simplifies the system architecture while maintaining enhanced spectral brightness.
3Power
If conventional beam combining is used, then simpler structures are employed, but the system cannot achieve high-power multi-broadband laser output without phasing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical phasing systems with non-free space optical elements that inherently manage beam combination. Waveguides and integrated photonic circuits provide fixed, stable optical paths that eliminate the need for dynamic mechanical adjustment and phasing control, enabling high-power output through deterministic optical design rather than active mechanical control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the fundamental operating parameters by transitioning from free-space optics to confined non-free space propagation. This parameter change enables high-power beam combination through waveguide-mode coupling and integrated optical processing, achieving power scaling without the mechanical complexity of conventional phasing systems by operating in a different physical regime.
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
This solution enables the efficient combination of multiple multi-band beams into a high-power, multi-broadband laser output, enhancing spectral brightness and power scaling without the need for phasing, suitable for applications like spectroscopy and threat detection.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of optical modifying surfaces contained within the beam combining module including at least one beam converging surface
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of optical modifying surfaces contained within the beam combining module including at least one beam converging surface, a diffraction surface, and a partially reflective surface
Implementation Method 3
the diffraction surface receives the combined beams and transmits a multi-wavelength beam onto a partially-reflective surface
Implementation Method 4
the partially-reflective receives the multi-wavelength beam, reflects a portion of the combined beams back to the diffraction surface
Implementation Method 5
the partially-reflective receives the multi-wavelength beam, reflects a portion of the combined beams back to the diffraction surface, and transmits the multi-wavelength beam
Implementation Method 6
one of the input facets is coated to internally reflect a first multi-wavelength beam having a first wavelength band and transmit a second multi-wavelength beam having a second wavelength band
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for combining multiple emitters into a multi-wavelength output beam having a certain band and combining a plurality of these bands into a single output using non-free space combining modules.