Method and apparatus for multi-track imaging using single-mode beams and diffraction-limited optics

US6873398B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Esko Graphics A/S · DK

Inventor

• Wolfgang Sievers · Kremperheide, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: May 21, 2003
• Grant date: Mar 29, 2005
• Expiry date: May 21, 2023

Classification

• Technology area (CPC H): Electricity
• CPC primary: H04N1/1135
• WIPO field: Audio-visual technology
• WIPO sector: Electrical engineering

Abstract

An imaging apparatus includes a laser to generate a single-mode laser beam of energy, a multichannel spatial light modulator (SLM) accepting a plurality of modulating signals, and a beam multiplier between the radiation source and the SLM. The multiplier accepts the beam and generates from that beam a plurality of beams directed onto the SLM. The beams from the beam multiplier illuminate the active region of the SLM such that the SLM generates a plurality of modulated beams modulated according to the modulating signals. An optical subsystem is located between the SLM and an imaging plane including at least one optical element focusing the modulated beams onto the plane on which recording medium is placed to permanently mark the recording medium in response to incidence of such imaging radiation. Each beam from the SLM is substantially single-mode such that the optical subsystem can be designed using diffraction-limited optics.