Compact mid-IR laser
US8050307B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 10, 2011 |
| Grant date | Nov 1, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 10, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01S5/3401
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A compact mid-IR laser device utilizes a quantum cascade laser to provide mid-IR frequencies suitable for use in molecular detection by signature absorption spectra. The compact nature of the device is obtained owing to an efficient heat transfer structure, the use of a small diameter aspheric lens and a monolithic assembly structure to hold the optical elements in a fixed position relative to one another. Efficient heat transfer is achieved using a thermoelectric cooler TEC combined with a high thermal conductivity heat spreader onto which the quantum cascade laser is thermally coupled. The heat spreader not only serves to dissipate heat and conduct same to the TEC, but also serves as an optical platform to secure the optical elements within the housing in a fixed relationship relative on one another.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.