Terahertz Wave Generation Using Multi-Wavelength Idler Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional terahertz wave generation apparatuses are limited to generating terahertz waves in a narrow wavelength band due to the use of lasers with single wavelengths, restricting their application in wide wavelength band inspections.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs a second non-linear optical crystal to generate idler light with multiple wavelengths, which is then used as a seed beam on a first non-linear optical crystal to produce terahertz waves with a high output power across a wide wavelength band, along with wavelength selection means to transmit specific wavelengths for selective terahertz wave generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If laser having a single wavelength is used as seed beam and pump beam, then terahertz wave can be generated with high peak output power, but the wavelength band is narrowed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single laser source into multiple wavelength components by using a non-linear optical crystal to generate idler light with multiple wavelengths. This segmentation of the wavelength spectrum allows the system to maintain high peak output power for each wavelength component while collectively covering a broader wavelength band.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the wavelength parameter of the seed beam by using a non-linear optical crystal to convert a single wavelength laser into multi-wavelength idler light. This parameter transformation enables the terahertz wave generation to cover a wider wavelength band while maintaining the high peak output power characteristic of single-wavelength operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple wavelengths are generated simultaneously, then wide wavelength band inspection can be performed, but spectral analysis becomes difficult due to mixed wavelengths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic wavelength selection mechanism that allows the system to switch between wide-band operation and narrow-band spectral analysis mode. By dynamically controlling which wavelength components are directed to the detector, the system can perform wide wavelength band inspection when needed and easily analyze specific spectral components when required.
3Adaptability or versatility
If wavelength selection means is added to transmit only specific wavelengths, then selective terahertz wave generation is enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The wavelength selection means is designed to serve multiple functions: it can select specific wavelengths for targeted terahertz generation, it can adjust the wavelength band range, and it can work in conjunction with the imaging means to provide both wide-band and narrow-band operation modes. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems for different operational requirements.
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 approach allows for the generation of terahertz waves with high output power across a wide wavelength band, enabling simultaneous inspection of components without the need for wavelength separation, and allows for selective use of specific wavelengths, enhancing spectral analysis and inspection efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a second non-linear optical crystal on which laser having the same wavelength as that of the second laser is incident to generate idler light including a plurality of wavelengths
Implementation Method 2
a first non-linear optical crystal on which the first laser and the second laser are incident to generate terahertz wave by a parametric effect
Data Source
AI summary
In a terahertz wave generation apparatus including a first non-linear optical crystal 3 on which first laser L1 and second laser L2 from laser generation means 2 are incident to generate terahertz wave TH1, the laser generation means includes a second non-linear optical crystal 7 on which laser having the same wavelength as that of the second laser is incident to generate idler light L1 including a plurality of wavelengths, and makes the idler light L1 generated from the second non-linear optical crystal incident on the first non-linear optical crystal as the first laser L1, to generate terahertz wave including a plurality of wavelengths from the first non-linear optical crystal 3, and wavelength selection means including a transmission section which transmits an idler light having the specific wavelength in the idler light including the plurality of wavelengths can be provided, as needed. Thus, terahertz wave having a high output power and including a plurality of wavelengths can be obtained, and the wavelength selection means easily obtains a required terahertz wave having the specific wavelength.