Abstract
We apply a new method of modeling Porro prism resonators, using the concept of rotating loss screens, to study stable and unstable Porro prism resonator. We show that the previously observed petal--like modal output is in fact only the lowest order mode, and reveal that a variety of kaleidoscope beam modes will be produced by these resonators when the intra--cavity apertures are sufficiently large to allow higher order modes to oscillate. We also show that only stable resonators will produce these modes.
Highlights
Porro prisms have the useful property that all rays incident on the prism are reflected back parallel to the initial propagation direction, independent of the angle of incidence, making them insensitive to misalignment
In [10] the kaleidoscope modes were generated external to a laser cavity using a loss screen with remarkable similarity to that found inside stable Porro prism resonators
These similarities and the implications thereof are discussed in section (5). This leads to the conclusion, in section (6), that the petal–like modes hitherto reported are only the lowest order modes, while higher order kaleidoscope modes are possible given sufficient transverse spatial extent to oscillate
Summary
Porro prisms have the useful property that all rays incident on the prism are reflected back parallel to the initial propagation direction, independent of the angle of incidence, making them insensitive to misalignment. This property is used in a Porro prism resonator, in which the end mirrors of a simple flat–flat resonator have been replaced by Porro prisms Such resonators have been exploited for their ruggedness, and found use in applications where a laser beam is required at a large distance from the source, and where the source is not a stable platform; for example, range finding and laser designators, mostly for the military [1,2,3,4]. In [10] the kaleidoscope modes were generated external to a laser cavity using a loss screen with remarkable similarity to that found inside stable Porro prism resonators These similarities and the implications thereof are discussed in section (5). This leads to the conclusion, in section (6), that the petal–like modes hitherto reported are only the lowest order modes, while higher order kaleidoscope modes are possible given sufficient transverse spatial extent to oscillate
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
