Multi-band laser architecture

US8995494B1 · kind B1 · utility

Assignee

• BAE Systems Information and Electronic Systems Integration Inc. · US

Inventors

• Leonard A. Pomeranz · Hollis, US
• Joseph M. Owen · Merrimack, US
• Michael J. Shaw · Centreville, US
• David P. Kelly · Nashua, US
• Philip R. Staver · Wilton, US
• Peter A. Budni · Nashua, US
• John C. Wikman · Lyndeborough, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 6, 2012
• Grant date: Mar 31, 2015
• Expiry date: Mar 12, 2033

Classification

• Technology area (CPC H): Electricity
• CPC primary: H01S3/1123
• WIPO field: Optics
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Techniques and architecture are disclosed for providing a laser system. In one specific example embodiment, the system includes a thulium-doped fiber laser coupled by silica glass fiber to a remote optical converter (ROC) including a Ho:YAG laser and, optionally, an optical parametric oscillator (OPO) utilizing zinc germanium phosphide (ZnGeP2; ZGP) or orientation-patterned gallium arsenide (OPGaAs). The fiber laser may emit a low-peak-power, continuous wave pump signal that pumps the Ho:YAG laser, which in turn emits a higher-peak-power, pulsed signal. When included, the OPO can be used to convert the resultant, pulsed signal to a longer wavelength (e.g., about 2-5 μm, or greater). In some cases, distributed architecture and reduced weight/bulk may be realized while eliminating the need to actively cool the ROC for operation, for example, over a broad temperature range (e.g., −55-125° C.). Also, methods of preparing high-peak-power, pulsed signals using such systems are disclosed.