Multi-Laser Head Power Scaling via Beam Splitter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for laser power scaling, such as multiple intra-cavity oscillators and MOPA systems, face limitations in achieving high power scaling without causing stress and heating on optical components, leading to reduced laser beam quality and limited power scaling due to increased stress and heating, as well as inefficiencies in independent lasing of individual lasers.
Innovation Solution
A multi-laser head configuration using diode-pumped Nd:YAG lasers with Q-switches and a beam splitter system that allows for adjustable output from high energy stacked pulses to low energy sequenced pulses, enabling pseudo continuous wave operation by synchronizing or sequencing the firing of multiple laser heads to control energy, average power, and pulse width.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If multiple intra-cavity oscillators or MOPA systems are used for laser power scaling, then high power output is achieved, but stress and heating on optical components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the laser system into multiple independent laser heads (at least two), each operating at lower individual power levels. These segmented laser sources are then combined through optical coupling to achieve high total power output, thereby avoiding excessive heating and stress on any single optical component while maintaining overall high power capability.
2Power
If multiple intra-cavity oscillators or MOPA systems are used for laser power scaling, then high power output is achieved, but laser beam quality deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Each laser head operates independently at optimized power levels that maintain beam quality, and the optical coupling system is designed to preserve beam characteristics during combination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs optical coupling elements (such as beam combiners or optical switches) as intermediaries to merge the beams from multiple laser heads while maintaining beam quality. These intermediary components are specifically designed to minimize optical aberrations and preserve the spatial coherence and quality of the combined laser output.
3Power
If multiple intra-cavity oscillators or MOPA systems are used for laser power scaling, then high power output is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into modular laser heads that can be independently controlled and maintained, with a control system that coordinates their operation. This modular segmentation allows for manageable complexity while achieving high power output through the combination of multiple standardized units.
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 configuration provides a flexible, high-power laser with improved beam quality and extended power scaling capabilities by maintaining lower individual power levels in each laser head, reducing stress and heating, and allowing for efficient independent operation of lasers, resulting in stable and reliable high-power output.
Implementation Method 1
a beam splitter residing at an intersection of the second optical axis and the first and third optical axes
Implementation Method 2
A first Q-switch residing in alignment with the first optical axis between the first highly reflective mirror and the first laser head
Implementation Method 3
diode-pumped Nd:YAG lasers with Q-switches
Data Source
AI summary
A laser beam combining and power scaling device and method. A first highly reflective mirror residing perpendicular to the first optical axis reflecting radiation emitted from the first laser head. A first Q-switch in alignment with the first optical axis interposed between the first highly reflective mirror and the first laser head. A second highly reflective mirror residing perpendicular to the second optical axis reflecting radiation emitted from the second laser head. The second Q-switch in alignment with the second optical axis is interposed between the second highly reflective mirror and the first laser head. A third optical axis is coincident with the first optical axis. A third highly reflective mirror residing perpendicular to the third optical axis in alignment therewith. The third optical axis may include a third diode pumped laser head and Q-switch. A beam splitter resides at the intersection of the axes.