Abstract
ABSTRACT The evolution in design, fabrication, and performance of diffractive optical elementsmanufactured for use as focusing elements in C02 industrial lasers is discussed. 1. INTRODUCTION Theory predicts that diffractive optical elements can be designed which focuscollimated, monochromatic radiation to a diffraction limited focal spot. Thus, large energydensities are at the focal point making diffractive optical elements well suited forapplication to industrial laser cutting and welding technology. To utilize this potential,Coherent, in collaboration with Holo Or, has fabricated ZnSe and GaAs diffractive opticalelements designed to be the focusing element in C02 industrial laser systems.Unfortunately, fabrication errors can easily degrade the diffraction limited opticalperformance of a diffractive focusing element. To solve these problems, a new 2ndgeneration diffractive thngLife focusing element has been designed. Initial testingindicates that this element exhibits the predicted diffraction limited performance.
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