Spring Optic Mounting for Thermal Stability in High-Power Lasers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser systems face instability issues due to thermal effects and deformation of optical elements fixed to mechanical mounts using conventional techniques, which can lead to suboptimal beam quality and increased manufacturing and assembly complexity.
Innovation Solution
The use of elastic springs with off-center bends and a central U-shaped bend to securely fix optics to mechanical mounts, providing a stable and repeatable fixation that reduces manufacturing costs and complexity, while accommodating various optic and mount configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional fixation techniques are used to attach optics to mechanical mounts, then the assembly process is simplified, but the stability of optical elements deteriorates due to thermal effects and deformation during system operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a spring-based mechanical fixation system that dynamically adapts to thermal expansion and deformation of optical elements during high-power laser operation. The spring mechanism maintains constant contact pressure on the optic while accommodating dimensional changes, thereby preserving both assembly simplicity and operational stability simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fixation parameter from rigid bonding to elastic mechanical contact. The spring's elastic properties allow it to adjust its deformation state based on thermal conditions, maintaining optimal fixation pressure across varying operating temperatures without requiring complex thermal compensation mechanisms
2Manufacturing precision
If rigid fixation methods are used to secure optics, then manufacturing precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional components and assembly steps
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-based fixation system is self-adjusting and self-regulating. It automatically maintains proper contact pressure and alignment without requiring external adjustment mechanisms or complex assembly procedures, thereby achieving high fixation precision while minimizing device complexity
3Ease of manufacture
If conventional fixation techniques are used, then initial assembly is simplified, but the duration of system operation is limited due to thermal deformation and loss of optical alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism provides beforehand cushioning by pre-accommodating thermal expansion and deformation that occurs during high-power laser operation. This elastic cushioning effect prevents loss of optical alignment over extended operational periods while maintaining simple assembly procedures
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
The spring-based fixation method enhances the stability of optical elements, maintains beam quality, and simplifies assembly, offering a cost-effective and robust solution for repeated system operation across different applications.
Implementation Method 1
the spring includes, consists essentially of, or consists of a single length of an elastic material having first and second opposing ends, and which has or defines two off-center bends as well as a central, generally U-shaped bend between the off-center bends
Data Source
AI summary
In various embodiments, a spring is utilized to fix an optic to a mechanical mount in a laser system. Such springs may consist of a single length of elastic material having first and second ends. The length of elastic material may define first and second off-center bends providing first and second base portions, as well as a central bend that is generally U-shaped and that defines first and second contact portions. The first and second contact portions are opposed to each other across the central bend to thereby resist compression of the first and second contact portions toward the first and second base portions.