Optimized laser energy conversion through automatic mode matched pumping
US5627853A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 1, 1995 |
| Grant date | May 6, 1997 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 1, 2015 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01S2301/166
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An apparatus and method for stabilizing the transverse mode of laser oscillation in a vertical cavity semiconductor laser and a microchip laser are disclosed. A preferred embodiment includes a quantum-well region formed over a semiconductor substrate. A first reflective surface is formed over the quantum-well region, and a second reflective surface is formed over the substrate, opposite the first reflective surface, forming a laser cavity. The quantum-well region is optically pumped, producing laser oscillation. The absorbed pump power causes a thermal lensing effect within the semiconductor material, stabilizing the transverse spatial mode of the laser cavity. The radius of curvature of the thermal lens is a function of absorbed pump power. Maximum power conversion efficiency is achieved if the pump power is controlled such that the diameter of the oscillating mode matches the diameter of the pump beam. The invention has applications in optical communication and laser printing.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.