Multiple-Reflection Cell Geometry for Quantum Cascade Lasers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional Herriott-type gas cells do not fully utilize the advantages of high-power and well-directed quantum cascade lasers, limiting their effectiveness in gas analysis.
Innovation Solution
A multiple-reflection apparatus using a pair of parallel plane mirrors and right-angle double mirrors at each end, with laser light entering at a specific angle, allowing for dense reflection spots without overlap and adjustable optical path length through drive devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional Herriott-type gas cell is used, then the optical path length can be extended, but the advantages of high-power and well-directed quantum cascade lasers cannot be fully utilized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the multiple-reflection system by using parallel plane mirrors with specific spacing and incident angles (e.g., 45 degrees) to optimize the optical path for quantum cascade lasers. The distance between mirrors and the angle of incidence are carefully controlled to create dense, non-overlapping reflection spots that fully utilize the laser's high directionality and power.
2Measurement precision
If the optical path length is increased in a limited volume, then measurement sensitivity is improved, but beam interference occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates local quality variations in the optical path by positioning reflection spots at specific locations on the mirror surfaces. The reflection spots are distributed with controlled spacing and angular relationships, ensuring that beams traveling different paths do not overlap or interfere with each other while still achieving extended optical path length through multiple reflections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces asymmetry in the optical path configuration by using non-equal spacing between mirrors and varying incident angles for different beams. This asymmetric arrangement ensures that the optical paths of multiple reflected beams are distinct and do not coincide, eliminating interference while maximizing the use of available space for extended optical path length.
3Area of stationary object
If parallel plane mirrors are used with laser light entering at a specific angle, then dense reflection spots without overlap are formed, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the optical path into multiple discrete reflection segments between parallel plane mirrors. Each segment contributes to the overall optical path length and creates a distinct reflection spot on the mirrors. By dividing the total optical path into manageable segments with controlled geometry, the system achieves high reflection spot density while maintaining relatively simple mirror and mounting structures.
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 efficient formation of a long optical path in a limited volume with reduced beam interference, suitable for high-power and directivity lasers, allowing miniaturization and improved measurement sensitivity.
Implementation Method 1
a pair of parallel plane mirrors that multiply reflects a laser light, in zig zag, which enters at a specific angle φ of incidence
Implementation Method 2
a right-angle double mirror on one end side having two perpendicular reflection surfaces for returning a multiple-reflection light that travelled to one end between the parallel plane mirrors
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple-reflection apparatus and a multiple-reflection cell includes: a pair of parallel plane mirrors that multiply reflects a laser light, in zigzag, which enters at a specific angle of incidence; a right-angle double mirror having two perpendicular reflection surfaces for returning the multiple-reflection light that traveled to one end between the parallel plane mirrors; and a right-angle double mirror having two perpendicular reflection surfaces for returning the multiple-reflection light that traveled from the right-angle double mirror on one end side to the other end between the parallel plane mirrors. When the two parallel mirror surfaces configuring the parallel plane mirrors are disposed to be parallel to the z-x plane of the x-y-z axial coordinate system, the two reflection surfaces configuring the right-angle double mirror are perpendicular to the x-y plane, and the laser light entering at the angle φ of incidence crosses the x-y plane at a specific angle.