Rotating Reflector Laser Array for Unobstructed Pulse Trains
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for simplified laser apparatus that can emit a train of laser pulses from multiple laser devices along a single optical path towards a target, while avoiding obstructions.
Innovation Solution
The laser apparatus features a linear array of laser devices with optical axes parallel to each other, intercepting a single optical path. A motorized laser pulse reflection arrangement continuously rotates laser pulse reflectors associated with each laser device, except for the trailing device, which has a stationary reflector or no reflector if its optical axis is co-axial with the path. A controller synchronizes the firing of laser devices to ensure uninterrupted emission along the optical path.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple laser devices are arranged along a single optical path, then the ability to emit a train of laser pulses is improved, but the risk of obstruction by motorized reflection arrangements increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by continuously rotating the laser pulse reflectors at a uniform angular velocity. This dynamic rotation ensures that the reflectors are positioned out of the optical path during the brief moment when laser pulses are emitted, eliminating obstructions while maintaining the ability to direct pulses along the desired path.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller synchronizes the firing of laser devices with the rotational position of the reflectors in advance. By predicting the optimal firing timing based on the continuous rotation, the system ensures pulses are emitted only when the optical path is clear, preventing obstructions before they can occur.
2Adaptability or versatility
If motorized laser pulse reflection arrangements are used to redirect beams, then the ability to combine multiple laser beams along a common path is improved, but the complexity of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple laser beams along a common optical path by using rotated reflectors that temporarily direct each beam's output along the same trajectory. This combining approach enables multiple laser devices to work together coherently while maintaining individual device simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The continuous rotation mechanism serves multiple functions: it acts as a beam director, a timing synchronization reference, and an obstruction avoidance mechanism simultaneously. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate complex control systems for each laser device.
3Device complexity
If laser devices are arranged with parallel optical axes, then the alignment and simplicity of the apparatus is improved, but the ability to intercept a single optical path is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous rotation of reflectors dynamically redirects the parallel laser beams onto the single optical path. The rotation enables the system to maintain simple parallel alignment of laser devices while achieving the ability to intercept and combine beams along a common trajectory through the moving reflectors.
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 allows for efficient and unobstructed emission of a train of laser pulses along a single optical path towards a target, enhancing the simplicity and effectiveness of the laser apparatus.
Implementation Method 1
a motorized laser pulse reflection arrangement for continuously rotating a laser pulse reflector associated with each laser device of the at least one laser device between the trailing laser device and the target around a rotation axis offset from the single optical path at a uniform angular velocity for reflecting laser pulses therefrom along the optical path toward the target
Data Source
AI summary
Laser apparatus including laser devices for emitting laser pulses, a motorized laser pulse reflection arrangement continuously rotated at a uniform angular velocity for reflecting laser pulses along a single optical path toward a target and a controller synchronized with the motorized laser pulse reflection arrangement for individually firing the laser devices for emitting a train of laser pulses reaching the target without obstruction by the motorized laser pulse reflection arrangement.