Beam Shaping Based on Axisymmetric Aspheric Mirrors

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel reflective laser beam shaping method using axisymmetric aspheric mirrors, a PBS, and QWPs to efficiently convert Gaussian beams into flat-top beams with high energy efficiency and parallel beam generation.

Contribution

The proposed method offers a simple, tunable, and efficient approach for laser beam shaping using axisymmetric aspheric mirrors, improving upon existing techniques.

Findings

High energy efficiency demonstrated

Capability to generate parallel beams

Simpler design and tunability compared to alternatives

Abstract

Flat-top beam, known for its ability to generate a consistently even irradiation area, holds vast utility in many fields of scientific and industrial applications. In this paper, a reflective laser beam shaping method based on two axisymmetric aspheric mirrors (AAMs), a polarizing beam splitter (PBS) and two quarter wave plates (QWPs) is proposed to transform Gaussian beam into flat-top beam. Compared to alternative beam shaping methods, the method using AAMs demonstrates distinct advantages on notably high energy efficiency and unique capability to generate parallel beams. Thanks to its relative simplicities of design, manufacture and tunability, AAMs-shaping further enhances its appeal in applied research scenarios.