Abstract:
A method and apparatus for applying a mid-IR graded microstructure to the end of a chalcogenide glass optical fiber are presented herein. The method and apparatus transfer a microstructure from a negative imprint on a nickel shim to a chalcogenide glass fiber tip with minimal shape distortion and minimal damage-threshold impact resulting in large gains in anti-reflective properties.
Abstract:
A fiber-optic connector for connecting an optical fiber to other optical assemblies is disclosed. The fiber-optic connector includes a top plate having a window of similar refractive index and transmission index as the material of an optic fiber to be contained within the fiber-optic connector. The fiber-optic connector also includes a ferrule connected to the top plate via multiple spring-loaded screws. The ferrule includes an interface and an insert. The insert is capable of firmly gripping an optical fiber. In order to reduce Fresnel reflection losses of the fiber-optic connector, the window is pre-coated with an anti-reflective surface on the side opposite an optic fiber to be contained within the fiber-optic connector.
Abstract:
Techniques and architecture are disclosed for providing a laser system. In one specific example embodiment, the system includes a thulium-doped fiber laser coupled by silica glass fiber to a remote optical converter (ROC) including a Ho:YAG laser and, optionally, an optical parametric oscillator (OPO) utilizing in germanium phosphide (ZnGeP2; ZGP) or orientation-patterned gallium arsenide (OPGaAs). The fiber laser may emit a low-peak-power, continuous wave pump signal that pumps the Ho:YAG laser, which in turn emits a higher-peak-power, pulsed signal. When included, the OPO can be used to convert the resultant, pulsed signal to a longer wavelength (e.g., about 2-5 μm, or greater). In some cases, distributed architecture and reduced weight/bulk may be realized while eliminating the need to actively cool the ROC for operation, for example, over a broad temperature range (e.g., −55-125° C.). Also, methods of preparing high-peak-power, pulsed signals using such systems are disclosed.
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for applying a mid-IR graded microstructure to the end of a chalcogenide glass optical fiber are presented herein. The method and apparatus transfer a microstructure from a negative imprint on a nickel shim to a chalcogenide glass fiber tip with minimal shape distortion and minimal damage-threshold impact resulting in large gains in anti-reflective properties.
Abstract:
Techniques and architecture are disclosed for providing a laser system. In one specific example embodiment, the system includes a thulium-doped fiber laser coupled by silica glass fiber to a remote optical converter (ROC) including a Ho:YAG laser and, optionally, an optical parametric oscillator (OPO) utilizing in germanium phosphide (ZnGeP2, ZGP) or orientation-patterned gallium arsenide (OPGaAs). The fiber laser may emit a low-peak-power, continuous wave pump signal that pumps the Ho:YAG laser, which in turn emits a higher-peak-power, pulsed signal. When included, the OPO can be used to convert the resultant, pulsed signal to a longer wavelength (e.g., about 2-5 μm, or greater). In some cases, distributed architecture and reduced weight/bulk may be realized while eliminating the need to actively cool the ROC for operation, for example, over a broad temperature range (e.g., −55-125° C.). Also, methods of preparing high-peak-power, pulsed signals using such systems are disclosed.