Ultrafast Laser Multi-Wavelength Output via Polarization Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional multi-wavelength lasers are complex due to their mechanism of outputting different wavelengths from separate light outlets, requiring intricate switching mechanisms.

Innovation Solution

An ultrafast laser system comprising a fundamental frequency ultrafast laser unit, optical beam splitting and polarization controlling unit, and optical beam combining unit, which divides and combines fundamental frequency and multiple frequency light to output multiple wavelengths from a single light outlet, utilizing Pockels cells and polarization beam splitters to achieve rapid wavelength switching.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional multi-wavelength laser outputs different wavelengths from different light outlets with switching mechanisms, then multiple wavelengths can be achieved, but the device complexity increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemulti-wavelength capabilityVSAvoidswitching mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges multiple wavelength outputs into a single light outlet by using optical beam combining technology. Different wavelength beams (infrared, green, ultraviolet) are combined through optical elements and exit through one unified outlet, eliminating the need for multiple separate outlets and complex switching mechanisms between them.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical switching mechanisms with optical beam combining technology. Instead of using mechanical switches to select between different wavelengths from separate outlets, the system uses optical elements to combine multiple wavelength beams simultaneously into a single outlet, eliminating moving parts and mechanical complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If optical beam splitting and polarization controlling is used to combine fundamental frequency and multiple frequency light, then multiple wavelengths output from single outlet is achieved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesingle outlet multi-wavelength outputVSAvoidoptical alignment precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses polarization beam splitters and Pockels cells as intermediary optical elements to manage the combination of different frequency lights. These intermediaries control the polarization states and enable precise combining of fundamental frequency and multiple frequency lights through well-defined optical paths, making the system more controllable despite precision requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes Pockels cells to dynamically change the polarization state of light beams by applying electrical voltages. This parameter change (polarization state) allows for precise control of beam combining without requiring mechanical adjustment, thereby managing manufacturing precision requirements through electrical control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 simplifies the output of multiple wavelengths by allowing fundamental frequency and multiple frequency light to be combined into a single outlet, enabling efficient switching and output of wavelengths such as infrared, green, and ultraviolet light with high precision and speed.

Implementation Method 1

By providing the Pockels cell, wavelength of laser light can be changed. By controlling the Pockels cell in different voltages, the fundamental frequency light and the multiple frequency light can be combined to be outputted.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPockels effect: Pockels Effect

Implementation Method 2

The fundamental frequency light emitted by the fundamental frequency ultrafast laser unit is divided into S-polarized light and P-polarized light, when it passes through the optical splitting and polarization controlling unit.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPolarization: Polarisation

Implementation Method 3

the fundamental frequency ultrafast laser unit is configured to provide fundamental frequency light of the entire laser optical path and frequency multipling of the entire laser optical path

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFrequency multiplication: Second Harmonic Generation

Implementation Method 4

the optical beam combining unit is configured to combine the fundamental frequency light and the multiple frequency light to make it output at one light outlet

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectOptical beam combining:

Data Source

PatentUS11621537B2Ultrafast laser
Publication Date: 2023.04.04 WUHAN YANGTZE SOTON LASER CO LTD
  • US11621537B2 patent drawing
  • US11621537B2 patent drawing
  • US11621537B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure provides an ultrafast laser that outputs multiple wavelengths. The ultrafast laser includes a fundamental frequency ultrafast laser unit, an optical beam splitting and polarization controlling unit, a multiple frequency unit, and an optical beam combining unit. The fundamental frequency ultrafast laser generates a multiple frequency ultrafast laser by the multiple frequency unit, such as double frequency light, triple frequency light, etc., and the optical beam combining unit makes the fundamental frequency light and the double frequency light output in a light outlet, the controlling unit controls the wavelength of the laser of the light outlet by controlling the polarization state of the laser. The ultrafast laser of the present disclosure can realize fast switching output among the fundamental frequency light and multiple frequency light, and output of combined pulse fundamental frequency light and double frequency light. The present disclosure also provides a strong powerful laser tool.