Forward Photonics proposes to develop a high brightness multi-band direct diode laser using its proprietary wavelength beam combination (WBC) technology. Direct diode lasers using WBC will have significant benefits compared similar laser technologies. These include higher efficiency, a robust construction with respect to wavelength and temperature, and wavelength selectability over a large range. These are summarized below: High efficiency: maximizes the efficiency of the laser system using a direct diode approach. High Brightness: Using WBC and diodes the same beam quality of the laser system is achieved as that of a single emitter minimizing the M2 of the system, necessary for long distance atmospheric propagation. Scalable and Modular: The wavelength beam combination technique provides the most scalable approach to beam combination, there is no limit to the number of emitters that can be included in a WBC system. Compactness: Without any active elements and high power density, a WBC direct diode system offers low specific weight density (kg/kW). Wavelength Selectability: WBC can be employed at any wavelength semiconductor lasers are available, increasing scalability, and atmospheric transmission. Low subsystem size: The high efficiency of WBC allows for reduced need for cooling and electrical power.
Benefit: This technology will see the development of a high-brightness laser system combining wavelengths ideal for certain countermeasures applications. The primary novelty of the laser is its high beam quality and low size, weight, and power (SWaP). Due to the wide spread of wavelengths in the laser there are numerous commercial applications, including media, materials processing, and medical applications.
Keywords: Diode Lasers, Diode Lasers, semiconductor lasers, high brightness lasers, Visible Lasers, Photonic Integrated Circuits
