Patent US5151909A successfully refreshed from Google Patents.
US5151909A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Frequency doubled solid state laser having programmable pump power modes and method for controllable lasers
Assignee: Laserscope Inc
•
Filing: 1991-04-22
•
Granted: 1992-09-29
•
Expires: 2011-04-22
Abstract
Abstract A laser system using non-linear crystals for second harmonic generation and solid state gain media is operated under data processor control so that a plurality of pump power modes are available. The data processor modulates the pump power in a low power mode, and supplies continuous pump power in combination with Q-switching in a high power mode. Alternatively, modulation may be used in both low power and high power modes, with the parameters of the modulation adjusted under program control. Second harmonic generation without a Q-switch in high power modes can be achieved as well. The data processing control of pump power allows optimization of pump energy consumption and the generation of waste heat so that the laser resonator may be air-cooled in many environments. Also other design objectives can be achieved for specific laser applications using the program controlled data processor to drive the pump power source.
Inventors
- 👤 Scott A. Davenport
- 👤 Mark V. Ortiz
- 👤 Linda Chen
- 👤 Dirk J. Kuizenga
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-07 15:24
CPC Classifications
H; H01; H01S; H01S3/00; H01S3/10; H01S3/11; H01S3/1123; H01S3/117; B; B23; B23K; B23K26/00; B23K26/02; B23K26/06; B23K26/064; H01S3/106; H01S3/108; H01S3/109; A; A61; A61B; A61B18/00; A61B18/18; A61B18/20; H01S3/02; H01S3/04; H01S3/0407; H01S3/102; H01S3/1022
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 113
Claim 1
Independent Claim
128 words
A laser system comprising: a laser resonator for resonating at a first frequency; a gain medium, mounted within the laser resonator; controllable means, coupled with the gain medium, for supplying pump power in response to at least one control signal, to the gain medium to induce laser gain; means, mounted with the laser resonator, for extracting an output beam at a second frequency derived from the resonating first frequency, the output beam having an output power; and control means, connected to the controllable means, for supplying the at least one control signal to control the output power, wherein the control means supplies the at least one control signal in a first mode to generate a low output power, in a second mode to generate a high output power.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
128 words
A laser system comprising: a laser resonator for resonating at a first frequency; a gain medium, mounted within the laser resonator; controllable means, coupled with the gain medium, for supplying pump power in response to at least one control signal, to the gain medium to induce laser gain; means, mounted with the laser resonator, for extracting an output beam at a second frequency derived from the resonating first frequency, the output beam having an output power; and control means, connected to the controllable means, for supplying the at least one control signal to control the output power, wherein the control means supplies the at least one control signal in a first mode to generate a low output power, in a second mode to generate a high output power.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
68 words
The laser system of claim 1, further including: input means, coupled to the control means and operated by a user, for selecting the first mode and the second mode; and wherein the control means supplies the at least one control signal in response to the input means to effect a transition from the first mode to the second mode without uncomfortable delay relative to the user's reaction time.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
98 words
The laser system of claim 1, wherein the controllable means includes: means, responsive to the at least one control signal, for generating an electrical power signal having characteristics specified by the at least one control signal; means, connected to receive the electrical power signal, for transducing the electrical power signal to generate the pump power according to the characteristics of the electrical power signal; and the control means supplies the at least one control signal in at least the first mode to generate modulated pump power with a selectable low pump power and a selectable peak pump power.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
14 words
The laser system of claim 3, wherein the controllable mean comprises an arc lamp.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
26 words
The laser system of claim 1, wherein the control means supplies the at least one control signal during the first mode to modulate the pump power.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
26 words
The laser system of claim 5, wherein the control means supplies the at least one control signal in the second mode to supply unmodulated pump power.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
26 words
The laser system of claim 5, wherein the control means supplies the at least one control signal in the second mode to supply modulated pump power.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
25 words
The laser system of claim 1, further including: means, mounted in the laser resonator and responsive to the control means, for Q-switching the laser resonator.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
18 words
The laser system of claim 1, wherein the second frequency is a second harmonic of the first frequency.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
27 words
The laser system of claim 1, further including: means, coupled with the laser resonator and the gain medium, for dissipating waste heat in air surrounding the system.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
30 words
The laser system of claim 1, wherein the means for extracting comprises a non-linear optical crystal and an output coupler inside the laser resonator for transmitting at the second frequency.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
20 words
The laser system of claim 1, wherein the means for extracting comprises a non-linear optical crystal outside the laser resonator.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
19 words
The laser system of claim 1, wherein the gain medium comprises a solid state medium characterized by thermal lensing.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
53 words
The laser system of claim 1, wherein the control means further supplies the at least one control signal in a transition from the first mode to the second mode so that the output power does not overshoot the high output power during the transition by more than a determinant maximum amount of overshoot.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
78 words
The laser system of claim 1, further including: means, coupled with the laser resonator, for delivering the output beam to a workpiece; and means, coupled with the control means, for supplying user input; wherein the control means is responsive to the user input to operate in the first mode at the low output power for aiming the output beam on the workpiece, and in the second mode at the high output power for accomplishing work on the workpiece.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
26 words
The laser system of claim 1, wherein the control means comprises data processing means, operable under program control, for generating the at least one control signal.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
132 words
The laser system of claim 15, further including: means, mounted with the means for extracting and the data processing means, for supplying measurements of the output power to the data processing means; and input means, connected to the data processing means, for supplying user inputs setting a desired low output power and a desired high output power; and wherein the data processing means supplies the at least one control signal in a characterization mode to determine laser parameters based on pump power versus output power measurements for the first mode and for the second mode, and is responsive to the laser parameters, the desired low output power and the desired high output power to generate the low output power and high output power in the first mode and the second mode, respectively.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
186 words
A laser system comprising: a laser resonator for resonating at a first frequency; a gain medium, mounted within the laser resonator; controllable means, coupled with the gain medium, for supplying pump power in response to at least one control signal, to the gain medium to induce laser gain; means, mounted with the laser resonator, for extracting an output beam at a second frequency derived from the resonating first frequency, the output beam having an output power; means, coupled with the gain medium, for dissipating a determinant amount of waste heat in air surrounding the laser system; and control means, connected to the controllable means, for supplying the at least one control signal to control the output power, wherein the control means supplies the at least one control signal in a first mode to generate a low output power with modulated pump power, and in a second mode to generate a high output power, so that an average pump power remains low enough during normal operation of the laser system that waste heat generated by the laser system remains less than the determinant amount of waste heat.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
186 words
A laser system comprising: a laser resonator for resonating at a first frequency; a gain medium, mounted within the laser resonator; controllable means, coupled with the gain medium, for supplying pump power in response to at least one control signal, to the gain medium to induce laser gain; means, mounted with the laser resonator, for extracting an output beam at a second frequency derived from the resonating first frequency, the output beam having an output power; means, coupled with the gain medium, for dissipating a determinant amount of waste heat in air surrounding the laser system; and control means, connected to the controllable means, for supplying the at least one control signal to control the output power, wherein the control means supplies the at least one control signal in a first mode to generate a low output power with modulated pump power, and in a second mode to generate a high output power, so that an average pump power remains low enough during normal operation of the laser system that waste heat generated by the laser system remains less than the determinant amount of waste heat.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
68 words
The laser system of claim 18, further including: input means, coupled to the control means and operated by a user, for selecting the first mode and the second mode; and wherein the control means supplies the at least one control signal in response to the input means to effect a transition from the first mode to the second mode without uncomfortable delay relative to the user's reaction time.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
26 words
The laser system of claim 18, wherein the control means supplies the at least one control signal in the second mode to supply unmodulated pump power.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
26 words
The laser system of claim 18, wherein the control means supplies the at least one control signal in the second mode to supply modulated pump power.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
98 words
The laser system of claim 18, wherein the controllable means includes: means, responsive to the at least one control signal, for generating an electrical power signal having characteristics specified by the at least one control signal; means, connected to receive the electrical power signal, for transducing the electrical power signal to generate the pump power according to the characteristics of the electrical power signal; and the control means supplies the at least one control signal in at least the first mode to generate modulated pump power with a selectable low pump power and a selectable peak pump power.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
14 words
The laser system of claim 22, wherein the controllable means comprises an arc lamp.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
25 words
The laser system of claim 18, further including: means, mounted in the laser resonator and responsive to the control means, for Q-switching the laser resonator.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
18 words
The laser system of claim 18, wherein the second frequency is a second harmonic of the first frequency.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
30 words
The laser system of claim 18, wherein the means for extracting comprises a non-linear optical crystal and an output coupler in the laser resonator for transmitting at the second frequency.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
20 words
The laser system of claim 18, wherein the means for extracting comprises a non-linear optical crystal outside the laser resonator.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
18 words
The laser system of claim 18, wherein the gain medium comprises solid state medium characterized by thermal lensing.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
78 words
The laser system of claim 18, further including: means, coupled with the laser resonator, for delivering the output beam to a workpiece; and means, coupled with the control means, for supplying user input; wherein the control means is responsive to the user input to operate in the first mode at the low output power for aiming the output beam on the workpiece, and in the second mode at the high output power for accomplishing work on the workpiece.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
26 words
The laser system of claim 18, wherein the control means comprises data processing means, operable under program control, for generating the at least one control signal.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
132 words
The laser system of claim 30, further including: means, mounted with the means for extracting and the data processing means, for supplying measurements of the output power to the data processing means; and input means, connected to the data processing means, for supplying user input setting a desired low output power and a desired high output power; and wherein the data processing means supplies the at least one control signal in a characterization mode to determine laser parameters based on pump power versus output power measurements for the first mode and for the second mode, and is responsive to the laser parameters, the desired low output power and the desired high output power to generate the low output power and high output power in the first mode and the second mode, respectively.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
247 words
A surgical laser system comprising: a laser resonator for resonating at a first frequency; a solid state gain medium, mounted within the laser resonator, characterized by thermal lensing; controllable means, coupled with the gain medium, for supplying pump power in response to at least one control signal, to the gain medium to induce laser gain; means, including a non-linear optical crystal mounted with the laser resonator, for extracting an output beam at a second frequency derived from the resonating first frequency, the output beam having an output power; means, coupled with the gain medium, for dissipating a determinant amount of waste heat in air surrounding the laser system; means, coupled with the laser resonator, for delivering the output beam to a work site; input means for supplying user input; and data processing means, responsive to a program and the user input and connected to the controllable means, for supplying the at least one control signal to control the output power, wherein the data processing means supplies the at least one control signal in a first mode to generate a low output power with modulated pump power used for aiming the output beam on the work site, in a second mode to generate a high output power for accomplishing work on the work site, and so that an average pump power remains low enough during normal operation of the laser system that waste heat generated by the laser system remains less than the determinant amount of waste heat.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
247 words
A surgical laser system comprising: a laser resonator for resonating at a first frequency; a solid state gain medium, mounted within the laser resonator, characterized by thermal lensing; controllable means, coupled with the gain medium, for supplying pump power in response to at least one control signal, to the gain medium to induce laser gain; means, including a non-linear optical crystal mounted with the laser resonator, for extracting an output beam at a second frequency derived from the resonating first frequency, the output beam having an output power; means, coupled with the gain medium, for dissipating a determinant amount of waste heat in air surrounding the laser system; means, coupled with the laser resonator, for delivering the output beam to a work site; input means for supplying user input; and data processing means, responsive to a program and the user input and connected to the controllable means, for supplying the at least one control signal to control the output power, wherein the data processing means supplies the at least one control signal in a first mode to generate a low output power with modulated pump power used for aiming the output beam on the work site, in a second mode to generate a high output power for accomplishing work on the work site, and so that an average pump power remains low enough during normal operation of the laser system that waste heat generated by the laser system remains less than the determinant amount of waste heat.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
99 words
The laser system of claim 32, wherein the controllable means includes: means, responsive to the at least one control signal, for generating an electrical power signal having characteristics specified by the at least one control signal; means, connected to receive the electrical power signal, for transducing the electrical power signal to generate the pump power according to the characteristics of the electrical power signal; and the data processing means supplies the at least one control signal in at least the first mode to generate modulated pump power with a selectable low pump power and a selectable peak pump power.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
14 words
The laser system of claim 33, wherein the controllable means comprises an arc lamp.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
32 words
The laser system of claim 32, further including: means, mounted in the laser resonator and responsive to the data processing means, for Q-switching the laser resonator at least during the second mode.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
18 words
The laser system of claim 32, wherein the second frequency is a second harmonic of the first frequency.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
30 words
The laser system of claim 32, wherein the means for extracting comprises a non-linear optical crystal and an output coupler inside the laser resonator for transmitting at the second frequency.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
20 words
The laser system of claim 32, wherein the means for extracting comprises a non-linear optical crystal outside the laser resonator.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
79 words
The surgical laser system of claim 32, wherein the data processing means further supplies the at least one control signal in a third mode for keeping the controllable means supplying pump power at a low level without generating an output beam wherein average pump power remains low enough during normal operation in the first, second and third modes of the laser system that waste heat generated by the laser system remains less than the determinant amount of waste heat.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
54 words
The laser system of claim 32, wherein the data processing means further supplies the at least one control signal in a transition from the first mode to the second mode so that the output power does not overshoot the high output power during the transition by more than a determinant maximum amount of overshoot.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
27 words
The laser system of claim 32, wherein the data processing means supplies the at least one control signal in the second mode to supply unmodulated pump power.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
27 words
The laser system of claim 32, wherein the data processing means supplies the at least one control signal in the second mode to supply modulated pump power.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
129 words
The laser system of claim 32, further including: means, mounted with the means for extracting and the data processing means, for supplying measurements of the output power to the data processing means; and the input means includes means for supplying user input setting a desired low output power and a desired high output power; and wherein the data processing means supplies the at least one control signal in a characterization mode to determine laser parameters based on pump power versus output power measurements for the first mode and for the second mode, and is responsive to the laser parameters, the desired low output power and the desired high output power to generate the low output power and high output power in the first mode and the second mode, respectively.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
45 words
The laser system of claim 32, wherein the data processing means supplies the at least one control signal in response to the input means to effect a transition from the first mode to the second mode without uncomfortable delay relative to a user's reaction time.
Claim 48
Independent Claim
175 words
A method for operating a laser system including a laser resonator, a laser medium and a non-linear crystal, wherein the non-linear crystal provides conversion of an oscillating mode to a desired output frequency, the laser system also including a controllable means for energizing the laser medium, comprising: controlling the energizing means in a work mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate a work mode output beam having a desired power from the laser resonator; controlling the energizing means in a ready mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to thermally stabilize the laser resonator above laser threshold for efficient conversion by the non-linear crystal to generate a ready mode output beam from the laser resonator, wherein average power supplied by the energizing means during the ready mode is less than average power supplied by the energizing means during the work mode; controlling the energizing means during transitions from the ready mode to the work mode, so that the transitions occur without unacceptably long delay relative to user's reaction time.
Claim 49
Independent Claim
175 words
A method for operating a laser system including a laser resonator, a laser medium and a non-linear crystal, wherein the non-linear crystal provides conversion of an oscillating mode to a desired output frequency, the laser system also including a controllable means for energizing the laser medium, comprising: controlling the energizing means in a work mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate a work mode output beam having a desired power from the laser resonator; controlling the energizing means in a ready mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to thermally stabilize the laser resonator above laser threshold for efficient conversion by the non-linear crystal to generate a ready mode output beam from the laser resonator, wherein average power supplied by the energizing means during the ready mode is less than average power supplied by the energizing means during the work mode; controlling the energizing means during transitions from the ready mode to the work mode, so that the transitions occur without unacceptably long delay relative to user's reaction time.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
50 words
The method of claim 45, wherein the laser system further includes components sensitive to overshoot of the desired output power of more than a determinant amount, and the step of controlling the energizing means during transitions includes: preventing overshoot of the desired output power, by more than the determinant amount.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
55 words
The method of claim 45, wherein the laser system further includes a cooling sub-system dissipating up to determinant amount of waste heat into air surrounding the laser system, and the steps of controlling the energizing means in the ready and work modes results in average generation of waste heat of less than the determinant amount.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
39 words
The method of claim 45, wherein the step of controlling the energizing means in the ready mode comprises: modulating the power supplied to the laser medium to improve conversion efficiency of the non-linear crystal for a given average power.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
44 words
The method of claim 48, wherein the step of oontrolling the energizing means in the work mode comprises: supplying the non-modulated power to the laser medium and Q-switching the laser resonator to improve conversion efficiency of the non-linear crystal for a given average power.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
44 words
The method of claim 48, wherein the step of oontrolling the energizing means in the work mode comprises: modulating the power supplied to the laser medium to improve conversion efficiency of the non-linear crystal for a given average power, without Q-switching the laser resonator.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
44 words
The method of claim 48, wherein the step of controlling the energizing means in the work mode comprises: modulating the power supplied to the laser medium and Q-switching the laser resonator to improve conversion efficiency of the non-linear crystal for a given average power.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
29 words
The method of claim 45, further including: controlling the energizing means in a standby mode to warm up the energizing means and laser medium without generating an output beam.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
57 words
The method of claim 52, wherein the laser system further includes a cooling sub-system dissipating up to a determinant amount of waste heat into air surrounding the laser system, and the steps of controlling the energizing means in the standby, ready and work modes results in average generation of waste heat of less than the determinant amount.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
29 words
The amount of claim 45, further including: providing an aim beam derived from the output beam of the laser resonator during the ready mode at the desired output frequency.
Claim 59
Independent Claim
110 words
A method for operating a laser system including a laser medium within a laser resonator for generating an output beam, the laser system also including a controllable means for energizing the laser medium and a detector for indicating power of the output beam, the method comprising: controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode from time to time to characterize power of the output beam relative to power supplied to the energizing means; and controlling the energizing means in a work mode in response to the characterization to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate a work mode output beam having a desired power from the laser resonator.
Claim 60
Independent Claim
110 words
A method for operating a laser system including a laser medium within a laser resonator for generating an output beam, the laser system also including a controllable means for energizing the laser medium and a detector for indicating power of the output beam, the method comprising: controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode from time to time to characterize power of the output beam relative to power supplied to the energizing means; and controlling the energizing means in a work mode in response to the characterization to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate a work mode output beam having a desired power from the laser resonator.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
68 words
The method of claim 55, wherein the step of controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode includes: generating parameters indicating expected output power from the laser resonator versus input power to the energizing means; and the step of controlling the energizing means in a work mode includes: evaluating the parameters in response to user input to determine a nominal input power function for the energizing means; and
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
20 words
adjusting the nominal input power to the energizing means in response to the detected output power of the laser resonator.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
20 words
adjusting the nominal input power to the energizing means in response to the detected output power of the laser resonator.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method of claim 55, further including: storing a characterization log indicating a history of characterizations of the laser system.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 57, further including: providing an interface for remote access to the characterization log.
Claim 66
Independent Claim
160 words
A method for operating a laser system including a laser medium within a laser resonator for generating an output beam, the laser system also including a controllable means for energizing the laser medium and a detector for indicating power of the output beam, the method comprising: controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode from time to time to characterized power of the output beam relative to power supplied to the energizing means for at least first and second energizing modes; controlling the energizing means in the first energizing mode in response to the characterization for the first energizing mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate an output beam having first characteristics from the laser resonator; and controlling the energizing means in the second energizing mode in response to the characterization for the second energizing mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate an output beam having second characteristics from the laser resonator.
Claim 67
Independent Claim
160 words
A method for operating a laser system including a laser medium within a laser resonator for generating an output beam, the laser system also including a controllable means for energizing the laser medium and a detector for indicating power of the output beam, the method comprising: controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode from time to time to characterized power of the output beam relative to power supplied to the energizing means for at least first and second energizing modes; controlling the energizing means in the first energizing mode in response to the characterization for the first energizing mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate an output beam having first characteristics from the laser resonator; and controlling the energizing means in the second energizing mode in response to the characterization for the second energizing mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate an output beam having second characteristics from the laser resonator.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
102 words
The method of claim 59, wherein the step of controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode includes: generating parameters indicating expected output power from the laser resonator versus input power to the energizing means for the first and second energizing modes; and the steps of controlling the energizing means in the first and second energizing modes includes: evaluating the parameters for the respective modes in response to user input to determine a nominal input power function to the energizing means; and adjusting the nominal input power to the energizing means in response to the detected output power of the laser resonator.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method of claim 59, further including: storing a characterization log indicating a history of characterizations of the laser system.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 61, further including: providing an interface for remote access to the characterization log.
Claim 71
Independent Claim
219 words
A method for operating a laser system, including a laser resonator, a laser medium and a non-linear crystal, for generating an output beam, wherein the non-linear crystal, crystal provides conversion of an oscillating mode to a desired output frequency, the laser system also including a controllable means for energizing the laser medium and a detector for indicating power of the output beam, comprising: controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode from time to time to characterize power of the output beam relative to power supplied to the energizing means for at least a work mode and a ready mode; controlling the energizing means in the work mode in response to the characterization for the work mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate a work mode output beam having a desired power from the laser resonator; and controlling the energizing means in the ready mode in response to the characterization for the ready mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to thermally stabilize the laser resonator above laser threshold for efficient conversion by the non-linear crystal to generate a ready mode output beam from the laser resonator, wherein average power supplied by the energizing means during the ready mode is less than average power supplied by the energizing means during the work mode.
Claim 72
Independent Claim
219 words
A method for operating a laser system, including a laser resonator, a laser medium and a non-linear crystal, for generating an output beam, wherein the non-linear crystal, crystal provides conversion of an oscillating mode to a desired output frequency, the laser system also including a controllable means for energizing the laser medium and a detector for indicating power of the output beam, comprising: controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode from time to time to characterize power of the output beam relative to power supplied to the energizing means for at least a work mode and a ready mode; controlling the energizing means in the work mode in response to the characterization for the work mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate a work mode output beam having a desired power from the laser resonator; and controlling the energizing means in the ready mode in response to the characterization for the ready mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to thermally stabilize the laser resonator above laser threshold for efficient conversion by the non-linear crystal to generate a ready mode output beam from the laser resonator, wherein average power supplied by the energizing means during the ready mode is less than average power supplied by the energizing means during the work mode.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
104 words
The method of claim 63, wherein the step of controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode includes: generating parameters indicating expected output power from the laser resonator versus input power to the energizing means for the work and ready modes; and the steps of controlling the energizing means in the work and ready modes includes: evaluating the parameters for the respective work and ready modes in response to user input to determine a nominal input power function for the energizing means; and adjusting the nominal input power function for the energizing means in response to the detected output power of the laser resonator.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
46 words
The method of claim 63, further including: controlling the energizing means in response to the characterizations for the ready and work modes during transitions from the ready mode to the work mode, so that the transitions occur without unacceptably long delay relative to user's reaction time.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
68 words
The method of claim 63, wherein the laser system further includes components sensitive to overshoot of the desired output power of more than a determinant amount, and further including: controlling the energizing means in response to the characterizations for the ready and work modes during transitions from the ready mode to the work mode, to prevent overshoot of the desired output power, by more than the determinant amount.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
39 words
The method of claim 63, wherein the step of controlling the energizing means in the ready mode comprises: modulating the power supplied to the laser medium to improve conversion efficiency of the non-linear crystal for a given average power.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
44 words
The method of claim 67, wherein the step of controlling the energizing means in the work mode comprises: supplying the non-modulated power to the laser medium and Q-switching the laser resonator to improve conversion efficiency of the non-linear crystal for a given average power.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
44 words
The method of claim 67, wherein the step of controlling the energizing means in the work mode comprises: modulating the power supplied to the laser medium to improve conversion efficiency of the non-linear crystal for a given average power, without Q-switching the laser resonator.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
44 words
The method of claim 67, wherein the step of controlling the energizing means in the work mode comprises: modulating the power supplied to the laser medium and Q-switching the laser resonator to improve conversion efficiency of the non-linear crystal for a given average power.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
29 words
The method of claim 63, further including: controlling the energizing means in a standby mode to warm up the energizing means and laser medium without generating an output beam.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
20 words
The method of claim 63, further including: storing a characterization log indicating a history of characterizations of the laser system.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 72, further including: providing an interface for remote access to the characterization log.
Claim 83
Independent Claim
126 words
An apparatus for controlling a laser system including a laser medium within a laser resonator for generating an output beam, the laser system also including a controllable means for energizing the laser medium and a detector for indicating power of the output beam, the apparatus comprising: means coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode to characterize power of the output beam relative to power supplied to the energizing means; and means, coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for controlling the energizing means in a work mode in response to the characterization to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate a work mode output beam having a desired power from the laser resonator.
Claim 84
Independent Claim
126 words
An apparatus for controlling a laser system including a laser medium within a laser resonator for generating an output beam, the laser system also including a controllable means for energizing the laser medium and a detector for indicating power of the output beam, the apparatus comprising: means coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode to characterize power of the output beam relative to power supplied to the energizing means; and means, coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for controlling the energizing means in a work mode in response to the characterization to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate a work mode output beam having a desired power from the laser resonator.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
94 words
The apparatus of claim 74, wherein the means for controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode includes: means for generating parameters indicating expected output power from the laser resonator versus input power to the energizing means; and the means for controlling the energizing means in a work mode includes: means for evaluating the parameters in response to user input to determine a nominal input power function for the energizing means; and means for adjusting the nominal input power to the energizing means in response to the detected output power of the laser resonator.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
53 words
The apparatus of claim 74, further including: means, responsive to user input, for enabling the means for controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode whereby a user may from time to time cause automatic re-characterization of the laser system to account for changing characteristics of elements of the laser system over time.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
57 words
The apparatus of claim 74, further including: means, responsive to turning on the laser system, for enabling the means for controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode whereby automative recharacterization of the laser system to account for changing characteristics of elements of the laser system over time is accomplished when the laser system is turned on.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
69 words
The apparatus of claim 74, further including: means for sensing an environmental condition affecting the laser system; and means, responsive to means for sensing and coupled with the means for controlling the laser system in a characterization mode, for enabling the means for controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode whereby changes in the environmental condition from tim e to time cause automatic re-characterization of the laser system.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
22 words
The apparatus of claim 74, further including: means for storing a characterization log indicating a history of characterizations of the laser system.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
16 words
The apparatus of claim 79, further including: an interface for remote access to the characterization log.
Claim 91
Independent Claim
191 words
An apparatus for controlling a laser system including a laser medium within a laser resonator for generating an output beam, the laser system also including a controllable means for energizing the laser medium and a detector for indicating power of the output beam, the apparatus comprising: means, coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode to store a characterization of power of the output beam relative to power supplied to the energizing means for at least first and second energizing modes; means, coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for controlling the energizing means in the first energizing mode in response to the stored characterization for the first energizing mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate an output beam having first characteristics from the laser resonator; and means, coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for controlling the energizing means in the second energizing mode in response to the stored characterization for the second energizing mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate an output beam having second characteristics from the laser resonator.
Claim 92
Independent Claim
191 words
An apparatus for controlling a laser system including a laser medium within a laser resonator for generating an output beam, the laser system also including a controllable means for energizing the laser medium and a detector for indicating power of the output beam, the apparatus comprising: means, coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode to store a characterization of power of the output beam relative to power supplied to the energizing means for at least first and second energizing modes; means, coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for controlling the energizing means in the first energizing mode in response to the stored characterization for the first energizing mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate an output beam having first characteristics from the laser resonator; and means, coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for controlling the energizing means in the second energizing mode in response to the stored characterization for the second energizing mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate an output beam having second characteristics from the laser resonator.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
109 words
The apparatus of claim 81, wherein the means for controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode includes: means for generating parameters indicating expected output power from the laser resonator versus input power to the energizing means for the first and second energizing modes; and the means for controlling the energizing means in the first and second energizing modes includes: means for evaluating the parameters for the respective modes in response to user input to determine a nominal input power function for the energizing means; and means for adjusting the nominal input power function to the energizing means in response to the detected output power of the laser resonator.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
53 words
The apparatus of claim 81, further including: means, responsive to user input, for enabling the means for oontrolling the energizing means in a characterization mode whereby a user may from time to time cause automatic re-characterization of the laser system to account for changing characteristics of elements of the laser system over time.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
68 words
The apparatus of claim 81, further including: means for sensing an environmental condition affecting the laser system; and means, responsive to means for sensing and coupled with the means for controlling the laser system in a characterization mode, for enabling the means for controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode whereby changes in the environmental condition from time to time cause automatic re-characterization of the laser system.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
57 words
The apparatus of claim 81, further including: means, responsive to turning on the laser system, for enabling the means for controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode whereby automatic re-characterization of the laser system to account for changing characteristics of elements of the laser system over time is accomplished when the laser system is turned on.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
22 words
The apparatus of claim 81, further including: means for storing a characterization log indicating a history of characterizations of the laser system.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
16 words
The apparatus of claim 86, further including: an interface for remote access to the characterization log.
Claim 99
Independent Claim
249 words
An apparatus for controlling a laser system, including a laser resonator, a laser medium and a non-linear crystal, for generating an output beam, wherein the non-linear crystal provides conversion of an oscillating mode to a desired output frequency, the laser system also including a controllable means for energizing the laser medium and a detector for indicating power of the output beam, comprising: means, coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode to store a characterization of power of the output beam relative to power supplied to the energizing means for at least a work mode and a ready mode; means, coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for controlling the energizing means in the work mode in response to the stored characterization for the work mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate a work mode output beam having a desired power from the laser resonator; and means, coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for oontrolling the energizing means in the ready mode in response to the stored characterization for the ready mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to thermally stabilize the laser resonator above laser threshold for efficient conversion by the non-linear crystal to generate a ready mode output beam from the laser resonator, wherein average power supplied by the energizing means during the ready mode is less than average power supplied by the energizing means during the work mode.
Claim 100
Independent Claim
249 words
An apparatus for controlling a laser system, including a laser resonator, a laser medium and a non-linear crystal, for generating an output beam, wherein the non-linear crystal provides conversion of an oscillating mode to a desired output frequency, the laser system also including a controllable means for energizing the laser medium and a detector for indicating power of the output beam, comprising: means, coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode to store a characterization of power of the output beam relative to power supplied to the energizing means for at least a work mode and a ready mode; means, coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for controlling the energizing means in the work mode in response to the stored characterization for the work mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to generate a work mode output beam having a desired power from the laser resonator; and means, coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for oontrolling the energizing means in the ready mode in response to the stored characterization for the ready mode to supply sufficient power to the laser medium to thermally stabilize the laser resonator above laser threshold for efficient conversion by the non-linear crystal to generate a ready mode output beam from the laser resonator, wherein average power supplied by the energizing means during the ready mode is less than average power supplied by the energizing means during the work mode.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
110 words
The apparatus of claim 88, wherein the means for oontrolling the energizing means in a characterization mode includes: means for generating parameters indicating expected output power from the laser resonator versus input power to the energizing means for the work and ready modes; and the means for controlling the energizing means in the work and ready modes includes: means for evaluating the parameters for the respective work and ready modes in response to user input to determine a nominal input power function for the energizing means; and means for adjusting the nominal input power function for the energizing means in response to the detected output power of the laser resonator.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
57 words
The apparatus of claim 88, further including: means, coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for controlling the energizing means in response to the stored characterizations for the ready and work modes during transitions from the ready mode to the work mode, so that the transitions occur without unacceptably long delay relative to user's reaction time.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
79 words
The apparatus of claim 88, wherein the laser system further includes components sensitive to overshoot of the desired output power of more than a determinant amount, and further including: means, coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for controlling the energizing means in response to the stored characterizations for the ready and work modes during transitions from the ready mode to the work mode, to prevent overshoot of the desired output power, by more than the determinant amount.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
41 words
The apparatus of claim 88, wherein the means for controlling the energizing means in the ready mode comprises: means for modulating the power supplied to the laser medium to improve conversion efficiency of the non-linear crystal for a given average power.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
45 words
The apparatus of claim 92, wherein the means for controlling the energizing means in the work mode comprises: means for supplying non-modulated power to the laser medium and Q-switching the laser resonator to improve conversion efficiency of the non-linear crystal for a given average power.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
46 words
The apparatus of claim 92, wherein the means for controlling the energizing means in the work mode comprises: means for modulating the power supplied to the laser medium to improve conversion efficiency of the non-linear crystal for a given average power, without Q-switching the laser resonator.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
46 words
The apparatus of claim 92, wherein the means for controlling the energizing means in the work mode comprises: means for modulating the power supplied to the laser medium and Q-switching the laser resonator to improve conversion efficiency of the non-linear crystal for a given average power.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
39 words
The apparatus of claim 88, further including: means, coupled with the energizing means and the detector, for controlling the energizing means in a standby mode to warm up the energizing means and laser medium without generating an output beam.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
53 words
The apparatus of claim 88, further including: means, responsive to user input, for enabling the means for controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode whereby a user may from time to time cause automatic re-characterization of the laser system to account for changing characteristics of elements of the laser system over time.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
57 words
The apparatus of claim 88, further including: means, responsive to turning on the laser system, for enabling the means for controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode whereby automatic re-characterization of the laser system to account for changing characteristics of elements of the laser system over time is accomplished when the laser system is turned on.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
68 words
The apparatus of claim 88, further including: means for sensing an environmental condition affecting the laser system; and means, responsive to means for sensing and coupled with the means for controlling the laser system in a characterization mode, for enabling the means for controlling the energizing means in a characterization mode whereby changes in the environmental condition from time to time cause automatic re-characterization of the laser system.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
22 words
The apparatus of claim 88, further including: means for storing a characterization log indicating a history of characterizations of the laser system.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
16 words
The apparatus of claim 100, further including: an interface for remote access to the characterization log.
References Cited (Backward Citations)
US4337442A
Cited
US4514848A
Cited
SU1018515A1
Cited
US4489415A
Cited
US4887270A
Cited
US4791631A
Cited
US4913533A
Cited
US4907235A
Cited
US5025446A
Cited
US4930901A
Cited
US5068546A
Cited
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1995-09-29 | 1996-03-30 | 1996-09-29 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1999-09-29 | 2000-03-30 | 2000-09-29 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2003-09-29 | 2004-03-30 | 2004-09-29 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |