Optical device for homogenizing a laser beam
US6014260A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 21, 1998 |
| Grant date | Jan 11, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 21, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B27/0905
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
An optical device for homogenizing a laser beam is described. Such a device is commonly used in the surface treatment of an object. The device consists of front lenses that are bonded together to form an assembly of lenses that breaks the laser light into multiple beams. This results in the homogenization of the gaussian profile of the beam intensity as viewed perpendicular to the beam's propagation. Advantageously the matrix of lenses is formed using groves or bevels in a manner that minimizes losses resulting from light impinging on glue disposed upon the entire lateral surface of the front lenses. In the invention gaps between front lenses that cause interference with the light path are eliminated. This gap free bonding is accomplished by filling the groves or bevels with glue, inserting a rod or wire into the grove to assemble the front lenses in a support frame, bonding a grill to assembled front lenses, or by using a combination of gluing with a support frame.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.