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An experimental lab-scale model has been built and tested. Further work is focusing on higher-power beam control and delivery
About
In recent years use of vector laser beams have become topical due to the scope of their applications, e.g., in microscopy, laser materials processing and data encryption. Although various ways to generate such beams abound, detection and/or analysis of these beams lags behind with only qualitative means currently in use. Wits researchers have developed a method and system for determining a beam quality factor (VQF) of laser beams that may be scalar, vector, or a combination thereof. The VQF provides a measure of the degree of vectorness of the laser beam. When combined with a laser beam during operation, a real-time determination of a VQF is possible, which may allow operators of the laser beam to assess the quality of their laser beams. The solution may also be used in the design of lasers, e.g., where a laser is required to have a particular output beam of a particular degree of vectorness and/or scalarness.
Key Benefits
1. Capable of quantitatively measuring vector beams 2. Real-time measure of beam quality 3. To be used as a design/manufacturing tool for laser beams
Applications
An experimental lab-scale model has been built and tested. Further work is focusing on higher-power beam control and delivery.